There is a specific provision in the rules for self-employed writers, composers and artists to come to the UK.

To qualify, they must have established themselves outside the UK as a writer, composer or artist. They must be engaged in producing primarily original work, which has been published, performed or exhibited for its literary musical or artistic merit (evidence needed to support an application). They must not take any other employment in the UK but, if they have savings or private means, they may use these funds to support themselves in addition to income derived from their art, composing or writing. They must be able to support themselves and any dependents without recourse to public funds.

For the purposes of the rule, writers will normally include freelance journalists. Artists may include art photographers and sculptors, but not performing artists, such as actors, musicians, dancers and singers, who need to obtain work permits.

Writers, composers and artists will be granted entry clearance for initial period of 12 months and thereafter be eligible to apply for a three-year extension on form FLR (O). Those intending to come to the UK under this category must obtain entry clearance. The spouse or unmarried partner and children under 18 may be admitted and granted extensions of stay in line with the applicant, and they can all apply for settlement near the end of the four-year period. Please note that evidence is required to support an application.