The length of a technical assignment does not, by itself, determine the correct immigration route. The activities and contractual arrangements are central to the assessment.
UK visitor rules permit certain technical activities subject to specific conditions. Provision PA 7 covers the installation, dismantling, repair and servicing of machinery, equipment and computer systems, as well as related training.
There must be a purchase, supply or lease contract with a UK organisation. The overseas business must be the manufacturer or supplier, or participate in an after-sales service arrangement agreed at the time of sale or lease.
A practical example
A business sending a technician to install machinery sold to a UK customer should assess whether PA 7 applies and prepare the contract, a description of the assignment and evidence of employment.
A short assignment does not automatically qualify for visitor entry. Activities outside the permitted scope require assessment under an appropriate work visa route. This is a reminder of existing rules, rather than an announcement of a new exemption.