Q: I am doing a PhD in Spain through an EU support program, and I plan to go to a UK university for about 2 months for research purposes. I am not sure which visa I need to get. Please let me know if there is a visitor visa or a research-purpose visa.
Answer:
You must be having busy days with your research and studies. When preparing to be dispatched to an overseas research institute or university, visa regulations are often complex and confusing. It is especially important to get clear confirmation if you are planning a short-term visit to the UK from Spain while doing your PhD through an EU support program, just like you.
To give you the conclusion first, based on your current South Korean nationality, if your purpose is a short-term exchange research visit for 2 months, you can enter the UK visa-free by simply obtaining an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation).
1. Differences in Entry Eligibility Based on Nationality
The qualifications required to enter the UK vary depending on the visitor’s “passport nationality.”
- Visa-Free Entry Eligible Countries (South Korea, USA, EU countries, etc.): You can enter by acquiring an ETA not only for tourism or short-term business, but also for short-term research activities under specific conditions.
- Visa Required Countries (China, Philippines, Vietnam, etc.): You must apply for and obtain an official visa (such as a Standard Visitor Visa) in advance before entry.
Since you are a South Korean national eligible for the ETA, you do not need to separately apply for a complicated Standard Visitor visa.
2. Is a ‘Visit as an Academic’ Visa Strictly Necessary?
Many people misunderstand and think they must obtain an “Academic Visitor” visa because the visit is for academic purposes. However, for short-term research and academic activities of 6 months or less, it is common and much simpler for South Korean nationals to enter using the ETA system.
3. Pre-Entry Checklist
To enter with an ETA and conduct your research smoothly at the University of Surrey, it is recommended that you prepare the following items in advance:
- Invitation Letter and Affiliation Proof: Meticulously prepare the official invitation letter issued by the University of Surrey and documents in English proving your current affiliation with your Spanish university and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie program.
- Check Stay Duration: You need to confirm that your visit duration is precisely 2 months (around 60 days) and safely falls within the short-term stay regulations (generally under 6 months).
- Re-confirm with University Department: It might have been frustrating because the university administrative department did not give clear guidance, but clearly state, “I am entering as a visitor with an ETA for a short-term academic activity,” and double-check document submission requirements with the International Student/Staff Support office.
You must have had many worries preparing for your visa, but I hope this guide provides small help so you can prepare for your research with a lighter heart. I wish you a successful research life at the University of Surrey!
John Suh
UK Regulated Immigration Legal Adviser
25+ Years of Experience in UK Visa & Immigration Services
OISC / IAA Registration Number: F200500022
Director, ilong Global Ltd & UK Immigration Centre Ltd
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Question:
Hello,
I am South Korean. I am doing a PhD in Spain through an EU support program. I plan to go to the University of Surrey in the UK for about 2 months for research purposes.
I am not sure which visa I need to get.
Please let me know if there is a visitor visa or a research-purpose visa.