Updated Academic and Affiliate Visitors Policy
02 Sep 2026
Clearer guidance, improved resources and a simpler process for supporting academic and affiliate visitors at Manchester
Academic and affiliate visitors play a vital role in helping us build partnerships, share knowledge and strengthen our global reputation.
Whether they're collaborating on research, contributing specialist expertise or supporting teaching and innovation, the experience they have while visiting our University matters.
To support our commitment to being a globally connected university, we've refreshed our policy and procedures for academic and affiliate visitors. The updates make it simpler for colleagues to understand requirements, follow the right processes and help create an excellent visitor experience at Manchester.
What's changing?
- Clearer policy and procedures - we've updated the policy and procedures to provide clearer guidance on the roles and responsibilities involved in hosting academic and affiliate visitors, as well as a clearer definition of who is covered by the policy.
- Improved StaffNet resources - our refreshed StaffNet pages make it easier to find information, guidance and support for every stage of the visitor process.
- New support materials coming soon - over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing a range of practical resources, including short videos and step by step guides, to help colleagues navigate the nomination and approval process with confidence.
- A new online visitor request form – we’re replacing the current PDF and Word document with a new online Connect form. The online form is currently being tested and will be rolled out in stages across the University from October 2026.
- Built-in compliance guidance - the new online process will help colleagues identify and understand any ATAS and Export Controls requirements as part of the visitor request process.
What do I need to do?
If you're involved in nominating, sponsoring or approving academic and affiliate visitors, please take some time to review the updated policy and procedures and familiarise yourself with the refreshed guidance.
- Read the updated Academic and Affiliate Visitors Policy and Academic and Affiliate Visitors Procedure
- Explore the new StaffNet guidance and resources
- Look out for further training materials and support resources over the coming weeks
More Information
