Touris visa for Serbian Citizen to UK

[ElvishLoremaster2020]

My initial thanks for those responsible for the maintaining of this useful resource.

I have a friend who would like to visit the UK early next year (COVID rules depending). She has lived n Serbia her whole life, and is married with a young child and living happily in Belgrade.

I have visited her a number of time (possibly 10-12 times) over the years, and I would like her to have the opportunity to visit the UK. She has limited funds and I would be "sponsoring" the trip insomuch that I would be paying for the travel and accommodation.

She would like to bring her child with her during her visit but from what I understand, there are issues with the UK Home Office having concerns for her returning home? Am I right in thinking this?

She has a husband (obviously) which would be staying in Serbia, and elderly parents of whom she cares for. She can obviously evidence this, along with documentation for her property. But cannot show evidence of funds to support her trip; this is where I come in.

My question here is essentially, what are the chances of a successful application, and is there anything I should be considering to get the decision making more in our favour?

Sincere thanks in advance for all advice. I sorely miss my friend and she deserves a holiday. I simply want for her to have a break from what has been a very hectic few years for her in her home country.

[ElvishLoremaster2020]

I should also point out that one of the intentions for her stay is to meet one of my clients who is looking for a remote worker to undertake maintenance on their websites, which would be akin to a part-time job for her, which she could undertake from home.

She has qualifications and work history to evidence her suitability for the position, but the client would like to meet her face-to-face. The success of which would be very valuable to her.

I obviously understand that her bringing her 18-month old child on this trip may look concerning to the authorities, but being at that age, a bond with the mother is very important, so leaving her child with her husband or parents is simply not on the cards.

Whether this in turn would be a reason for considering a work-based visa as opposed to a tourist visa I do not know. Hopefully, this is where your expertise here on the forum would come in!

Again - my every thanks. I am so grateful.