This is additional information relating to visitors who are carrying out research. It is very important that your visitor comes to the UK under the correct visa category. This information is for visiting research students This refers to visitors who are studying (normally a PhD) outside of the UK who wish to undergo a short period of research towards, or related to, their degree studies. If your visitor is not a registered student at a non-UK institution, please see the information on our Staff Visas page, which will help you identify the type of visa your visitor requires. Staff Visas Visiting research students must register at the University under the Visiting and Non-Graduating Student Policy and Procedure. Visiting and Non-Graduating Student Policy and Procedure Visiting research students (less than 6 months) If the student is coming to carry out research for less than 6 months, they will normally apply for a Standard visitor visa. This allows them to: Enrol at the University for up to 6 months Undertake research or research training towards or related to their main course of study Receive financial sponsorship from the University of Edinburgh or other financial sponsor The Standard visitor visa prohibits: Work (paid or unpaid) Extending the stay in the UK More information about the standard visitor visa can be found at the link below. Standard visitor visas Visiting research students (more than 6 months) If the student is coming for longer than 6 months, they will be able to apply for a Student visa providing: The research they will carry out will directly contribute to their main degree-level studies The will be enrolled on a full-time basis The Student visa permits: Full-time study Work (up to 20 hours per week) More information about the Student visa can be found on our student visa pages. Student visa Additional resources Template visa invitation letters This article was published on 2024-07-29
