The Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) visa is a sub-category of the UK Standard Visitor visa. It allows individuals from overseas to carry out a paid engagement in the UK for a limited time, without the need for sponsorship under a longer-term work visa.
The route is designed for specific professional activities, such as guest lecturing, artistic performances or legal representation, where the individual has been invited by a UK-based organisation or client.
Unlike other visitor visas, the PPE visa permits payment for the engagement, provided the work falls within the permitted list of activities and is completed within the first month of arrival. The visa can be granted for up to six months in total, though the paid work must not extend beyond the initial 30 days.
The route is only open to individuals who are already established professionals in their field and who can evidence their expertise. It is not suitable for general employment or long-term stays and cannot be used for repeated visits to undertake the same engagement.
In this guide, we set out what the PPE visa is, who can apply and how to apply. We also consider alternative routes where the permitted paid criteria are not met.
What is the Permitted paid engagement visa?
The Permitted Paid Engagement visa allows overseas professionals to come to the UK for a short stay to carry out paid work in limited, pre-approved scenarios. It is intended for individuals with a recognised reputation or established expertise in their field, such as academics, artists, entertainers, expert witnesses, or qualified lawyers.
The visa is designed for visits where the main purpose is a specific paid engagement that falls outside the scope of the Standard Visitor route. For example, an overseas lecturer may be invited by a UK university to give a one-off talk, or a performer may be hired for a single concert appearance.
The visa is valid for up to one month. The work carried out must be linked directly to the individual’s area of expertise and must take place within this short time frame. It does not allow for ongoing or repeat employment in the UK, nor does it permit the holder to work in roles unrelated to the stated purpose of the visit.
Applicants must be aged 18 or over and must be able to show that they have been invited by a UK-based organisation or client. The invitation must be specific and relate to a professional activity in which the applicant has a demonstrable track record. The visa is suitable for individuals who are well-established in their profession and have been invited to undertake short-term, paid work that benefits from their specialist knowledge or experience.
Permitted paid engagement visa requirements
The Permitted Paid Engagement visa is aimed at professionals who have been invited to the UK to carry out specific paid work in their area of expertise. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and based outside the UK. They must intend to stay in the UK for no more than one month and must leave at the end of their visit.
The visa is not open to anyone seeking employment or long-term work. It is only suitable for individuals who have been invited by a UK-based organisation, client, or institution for a short-term, pre-arranged engagement. The work must be related to the applicant’s professional field, and the applicant must be able to show that they are well-established in their profession.
Examples of eligible applicants include qualified lawyers coming to represent a client in court, academics invited to speak at a university event, or professional musicians hired to perform at a specific cultural event. Artists, sportspeople, and guest lecturers may also apply, provided the work is limited in duration and has been formally arranged before travel.
Applicants must ensure the engagement directly relates to their full-time profession overseas. Semi-retired professionals may be eligible if the paid engagement reflects regular ongoing work. Retired individuals are not eligible under this route. Invitations must clearly state the nature of the engagement and confirm the professional’s suitability and credentials. Evidence of qualifications, career history, and professional recognition should be submitted with the application.
Applicants must not intend to undertake work outside the scope of their engagement. They are also expected to meet the general requirements of visitor entry, including showing they can support themselves financially during their stay and that they will leave the UK at the end of their visit. The Home Office will consider the individual’s circumstances, including their professional background, travel history, and ties to their home country.
PPE visa permissible activities
The Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) visa allows individuals to carry out a limited range of pre-approved professional activities in the UK. These activities must be formally arranged before the applicant travels and must relate directly to their area of expertise.
Examples of permitted activities include giving lectures or speeches, taking part in artistic performances, or carrying out specific work as a recognised expert. A qualified lawyer may come to represent a client in a UK court. An academic may be invited to participate in a selection panel or examination. A professional sportsperson may attend a paid sporting event or exhibition match. Artists, musicians, and performers may give public performances or contribute to cultural festivals, provided the work is time-limited and clearly defined.
The PPE visa does not permit applicants to carry out general work, take up a job with a UK company, or do any work outside the agreed activity. Voluntary work, internships, and work placements are also not allowed under this route.
Engagements must be arranged by a UK-based organisation or client. The applicant must be able to show formal evidence of the invitation and details of the activity, including dates, nature of the work, and the professional relationship between the parties involved. All engagements must be completed within the one-month validity of the visa.
Restrictions and conditions of stay
The Permitted Paid Engagement visa is strictly time-limited and purpose-specific. Individuals granted entry under this route are allowed to stay in the UK for a maximum of one month. The visa cannot be extended, nor can it be switched to another visa category from within the UK.
The visa holder must leave the UK before the end of their authorised period of stay. Overstaying, even by a short period, can affect future UK visa applications and may result in a re-entry ban.
Work is only permitted in connection with the specific paid engagement stated in the application. No other paid or unpaid work is allowed, and visa holders are not permitted to access public funds. Study is generally not allowed unless it is incidental and does not interfere with the primary purpose of the visit.
Dependants are not permitted to accompany the applicant under this route. Each individual must qualify in their own right for an appropriate visa.
Accommodation and living costs must be self-funded, and the visa holder is expected to have sufficient funds to support themselves without working outside the terms of the permitted engagement. Any breach of visa conditions may result in refusal of entry at the border or removal from the UK.
PPE visa application process & timeline
Applicants must apply for the Permitted Paid Engagement visa online via the official UK government website. Applications should be submitted no more than three months before the intended date of travel. The process must be completed from outside the UK, as switching into this route from within the UK is not permitted.
The online form requires the applicant to provide personal details, travel history, information about the planned engagement, and the organisation or individual they will be working with in the UK. The application must be accompanied by scanned copies of all required supporting documents, such as the invitation letter, passport, financial evidence, and proof of professional standing.
Once the form is submitted, the applicant must attend an appointment at a local visa application centre (VAC) to enrol biometric information. This includes a digital photograph and fingerprints. Appointments should be booked promptly to avoid delays, especially during peak periods.
Standard processing usually takes up to three weeks, although some centres may offer priority services at an additional cost. Applicants should avoid confirming travel plans until a decision has been received and the passport returned with the visa vignette.
If approved, the visa is valid for one month. The applicant must enter the UK during that period and complete the paid engagement as specified in their application. Overstaying or taking on unapproved work can lead to future visa refusals.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| When to apply | Up to 3 months before intended travel date |
| Application method | Online via GOV.UK website |
| Biometrics appointment | Must attend a visa application centre (VAC) outside the UK |
| Processing time | Usually within 3 weeks (standard service) |
| Visa validity | 1 month from date of issue |
| Supporting documents |
|
| Restrictions | Cannot switch from another visa within the UK. No extensions or additional work permitted. |
Permitted paid Engagement supporting documents
To apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa, applicants must submit evidence to show that they meet the eligibility requirements and that their proposed activity in the UK is permitted under the route.
Applicants must provide a formal invitation from the UK-based organisation or client that is hosting the engagement. The invitation should include full details of the activity, such as the dates, location, purpose, and how the applicant is qualified to carry it out. The organisation’s contact information and any contractual agreement should also be included.
Evidence of the applicant’s professional background must also be submitted. This could include a curriculum vitae, professional references, or a portfolio of relevant work. Where applicable, copies of licences, accreditations or professional memberships should be included to show the applicant’s status in their field.
| Profession | Eligible Activities | Who Can Invite | Evidence of Expertise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artist, Entertainer, Musician | Performing, giving lectures, launching or presenting work | Gallery, events venue, broadcaster, agent | Published work, event publicity, reviews, awards |
| Sportsperson | Competing or participating in a sporting event | Sports organisation, agent, broadcaster | Media coverage, competition record, awards |
| Qualified Lawyer | Representing a client in UK legal proceedings | Client (must be UK-based) | Practising certificate, letter of instruction, right of audience |
| Lecturer | Delivering a lecture or series of lectures | University, museum, theatre, gallery | Letter from employer, published work, lecture history |
| Conference Speaker | Speaking at a seminar or conference | UK-based organiser | Proof of relevance to current profession |
| Academic Examiner/Assessor | Assessing students, chairing selection panels | UK university or research body | Letter from employer, academic credentials |
| Air Pilot Examiner | Assessing pilots for national aviation standards | UK-approved training organisation | Employment with national aviation authority |
A valid passport or travel document is required. The document must contain at least one blank page and be valid for the duration of the stay.
Financial documents are required to show that the applicant can support themselves during their stay. Bank statements, payslips or sponsorship letters can be used for this purpose. Applicants must also demonstrate they can cover the cost of travel and accommodation.
All documents must be in English or Welsh, or accompanied by a certified translation.
Permitted paid engagement visa cost
It costs £127 to apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa.
At the UK border
Travellers entering the UK under the Permitted Paid Engagement visa route must be prepared to show evidence of their eligibility and intentions when they arrive. Border Force officers have the authority to question visitors and assess whether they meet the entry conditions. Even if a visa has been issued in advance, entry can still be refused if the officer is not satisfied that the visitor meets the requirements.
Visitors should carry printed copies of their invitation letter from the UK host organisation, details of the paid engagement, evidence of qualifications or experience relevant to the engagement and proof of funds to support themselves. Travel and accommodation details may also be requested.
Border officers may also ask questions about the nature of your work, the length of stay and whether any other activities are planned while in the UK. Any inconsistency between the declared purpose of the visit and the visa conditions may result in refusal of entry.
Visitors should answer all questions clearly and honestly and be prepared to show supporting documents. Maintaining a calm and cooperative approach will assist in the smooth processing of entry clearance. Once admitted, travellers should ensure they comply fully with the terms of their visa for the duration of their stay.
Alternatives to the PPE Visa
The Permitted Paid Engagement visa not appropriate for all work-related purposes or professional visits. Depending on the nature, duration and scope of the activity, several other UK immigration routes may be more suitable:
Standard Visitor Visa (Unpaid Activities)
For those who do not intend to be paid for their activities in the UK, the Standard Visitor visa may offer a suitable alternative. It permits a wide range of professional and business-related activities, including attending meetings, conferences, and seminars or taking part in unpaid artistic or sporting events. Individuals must not receive payment other than reasonable expenses.
Skilled Worker Visa
Where the planned activity involves taking up employment with a UK company, or repeated or ongoing paid work, the Skilled Worker visa may be appropriate. Applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meet minimum skill and salary thresholds. This route is suitable for longer stays and may lead to settlement.
Temporary Work – Creative Worker Visa
Artists, entertainers, and musicians coming to the UK for short-term engagements may apply under the Creative Worker visa, provided they are sponsored by a UK-based organisation licensed by the Home Office. The engagement can last up to 12 months, with the option to extend. This route allows greater flexibility than the PPE visa, especially for touring artists or those with multiple bookings.
Temporary Work – Sporting Visa
For professional sportspeople, the Temporary Work – International Sportsperson visa may be more appropriate where the applicant is joining a UK club or taking part in multiple events. This route requires a sponsor and approval from the relevant governing body.
Global Talent Visa
Established leaders or emerging talents in fields such as arts, culture, science, engineering, or digital technology may be eligible for the Global Talent visa. This is not tied to a specific employer and allows more flexibility, including the option to undertake paid engagements and apply for settlement.
High Potential Individual Visa
Graduates from top-ranked global universities may apply for the High Potential Individual visa to work in the UK without sponsorship. While not directly tied to a single event, this route may suit those seeking broader work opportunities, including professional engagements.
Need assistance?
The most appropriate route depends on the type of work planned, whether you are being paid, how long you plan to stay and whether sponsorship is available. Applicants should ensure they meet the conditions of the chosen route and seek advice where appropriate to avoid breaching immigration rules.
For specialist guidance on the permitted paid engagement route, or any other aspect of coming to the UK for work purposes, contact our experts.
Permitted Paid Engagement FAQs
How long can I stay in the UK on a Permitted Paid Engagement visa?
You can stay in the UK for up to six months. However, the paid engagement must take place within the first month of your arrival.
Can I undertake more than one engagement on this visa?
You may attend other unpaid engagements or professional meetings during your stay, but only one paid engagement is allowed and must be the primary purpose of your visit.
Can I bring family members with me?
No, the Permitted Paid Engagement visa does not allow dependants to accompany you. Family members would need to apply separately as Standard Visitors.
Do I need to apply for a visa before I travel?
If you are a visa national, you must apply in advance. Non-visa nationals do not need to apply for a visa but must still obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling and meet all eligibility requirements.
Can I switch to another visa category while in the UK on a PPE visa?
No, you cannot switch to another visa category from within the UK. You must leave the UK and apply from overseas if you wish to apply for a different visa.
What happens if the engagement is cancelled?
If the paid engagement is cancelled, you are still subject to the terms of your visa. You may remain in the UK for the remainder of your visit but cannot undertake any other paid work.
Can I take a short-term teaching or performance job?
Only if it meets the specific criteria set out for your profession and is a one-off engagement. The visa does not permit ongoing or full-time employment.
What kind of evidence do I need for my application?
You must show proof of your invitation from a UK-based organisation and provide documents confirming your expertise and professional standing, such as published work, media coverage, or proof of recent performances.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) | A visa route allowing certain professionals to come to the UK for a short stay to carry out specific paid work without sponsorship. |
| Standard Visitor visa | A visa for individuals visiting the UK for tourism, business meetings, short courses or other permitted activities for up to six months. |
| Visa national | A person from a country whose nationals must apply for a visa before travelling to the UK. |
| Non-visa national | A person from a country whose nationals do not need to apply for a visa before visiting the UK, but must still meet entry requirements. |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | An online travel approval required for non-visa nationals before travelling to the UK, linked electronically to their passport. |
| Invitation letter | A formal request from a UK-based organisation or client, detailing the nature of the event or engagement for which the visitor is invited. |
| Right of audience | The legal right of a qualified lawyer to represent a client in court or before a tribunal in the UK. |
| Host organisation | A UK-based institution or business inviting the applicant for a permitted paid engagement. |
| Professional standing | The recognition or status of an individual in their field, demonstrated by experience, publications, awards or media presence. |
| Civil Aviation Authority | The UK’s national aviation regulator responsible for licensing and oversight of air transport operations and pilot training. |
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
