Friend to visit from Africa

[Exever]

Hi, I'm new here. I hope someone can help me. I am a Slovak citizen living and working in the UK for over 15years. I am planning on inviting a friend from Africa on a visit and possibly he can stay if he likes it here. I am confused what route to take. He is not family so cannot apply for EU Family Permit. He is also not extended family member so cannot take this route. The UK general visitor form is only thing that pops up when I google. Is this the form an EU citizen can use to invite a friend? If he uses this form and after getting here decides he would like to stay, the general visitor visa does not allow visitors to convert their visas whilst in the UK otherwise I was willing to help towards his upkeep or maybe residence card but process is confusing. I am only trying to see if I can help a friend if he makes it here. Thanks for your thoughts on this.

[Casa]

He needs to apply for a Standard Visitor visa.

However, in order to convince the ECO that he won't overstay in the UK, he will have to submit strong evidence of ties to his home country with proof such as permanent employment, financial self-sufficiency (more important than your sponsorship), property ownership, ongoing study at college/university. dependent relatives.

If he is fortunate to be granted a visitor visa, he will be unable to switch to any other category from within the UK. He can't just 'decide to stay if he likes it here'

[CR001]

Just curious, have you met this friend in person and how long have you been friends?

[Exever]

Thank you. Yes I was in Africa once on holiday and we remained in contact. I would say 5 years now.

[Exever]

Thanks Casa. I am now sure about forms to use from your explanation. I hear conditions for visitor visas are very hard to meet but we will try.

[vinny]

They may expect you to provide evidence of a genuine professional or personal relationship with the visitor, under V4.3.

[Exever]

Thanks Vinny. I may have to use a lawyer to help with his application. I have had family and friends over from the EU, some even visit without a passport. This visitor visa sounds like one is applying to be an MP.

[Casa]

Thanks Vinny. I may have to use a lawyer to help with his application. I have had family and friends over from the EU, some even visit without a passport. This visitor visa sounds like one is applying to be an MP.

Unfortunately due to the widespread abuse of non-genuine visitors who decide not to return home.