Visa Requirements

Check if you need a UK visa

Most international delegates travelling to the UK to attend an academic conference will require permission to enter under the Standard Visitor Visa (Business route). This visa allows you to visit the UK for up to six months to take part in permitted business activities such as attending conferences, meetings, seminars, and training sessions.

Do You Need a Visa?

Whether you need to apply for a visa depends on your nationality.

  • Visa nationals (eg. citizens of India, China, Russia, and many African, Middle Eastern, and Asian countries) must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before travelling.
  • Non‑visa nationals (eg. USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, EU member states) do not need a visa for short visits but, from February 2026, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel.

Supporting Letters from the Conference Team

The Conference Team can issue supporting letters to assist with visa or ETA applications. To generate your letter, please ensure you provide:

  • Full name (as it appears in your passport)
  • Full postal address
  • Nationality
  • Passport number
  • Dates of travel

All supporting letters will be issued electronically only.