Can I attend a UK university open day on a visitor visa?

Yes, attending a university open day, campus tour, or admissions interview is permitted on a Standard Visitor visa (tourist visa) to the UK. This is classified as a permitted activity for visitors.

What you can do on a visitor visa related to study:
- Attend open days and campus tours
- Attend admissions interviews
- Attend short recreational courses (up to 30 days, not working toward a qualification)
- Attend academic conferences (not working, just attending)
- Do short research activities (no more than 6 months as a Visiting Researcher under specific conditions)

What you CANNOT do on a visitor visa:
- Enrol in a course (even a single term)
- Receive payment for any activity
- Take exams that form part of a qualification
- Begin studying for a qualification

Do you need a visa for an open day?:
Citizens of the UK and EEA/Swiss nationals, plus many others from over 50 countries, can come to the UK without a visa for up to 6 months as visitors. Check gov.uk to see if you need a visa for your nationality.

If you need a Standard Visitor visa:
Apply online at gov.uk. Processing time is typically 3 weeks. For open days, you need:
- Letter of invitation from the university
- Proof you will return home (employment, family ties, return ticket)
- Financial evidence
- Passport

Standard visitor visa duration: Up to 6 months per entry.

There is no specific 'student visit visa' category — use the Standard Visitor visa for short academic visits.