Here are the definitions from the FAA:
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publi...c/atc0704.html
7-4-1. VISUAL APPROACH
A visual approach is an ATC authorization for an aircraft on an IFR flight plan to proceed visually to the airport of intended landing; it is not an instrument approach procedure. Also, there is no missed approach segment. An aircraft unable to complete a visual approach must be handled as any go-around and appropriate separation must be provided.
And from the ICAO/JAR-OPS:
SKYbrary - Visual Approach
A visual approach is an approach when either part or all of an instrument approach procedure is not completed and the approach is executed with visual reference to the terrain. (JAR-OPS 1.435 (a) (8))
A visual approach IS NOT an instrument approach...
A visual approach is with visual reference to the terrain...
A visual approach doesn't need any radio aids...
It doesn't say in the OM-A we can not fly it manually... but the EK reading of a visual approach is only a Visual Pattern, flown with the automatics, or position visually to an instrument approach with the automatics...
It is written nowhere, but it is "EK policy"...
Now, by experience, I choose an ILS with -12kts rather than a visual approach to the opposite runway just to avoid being called at the office by certain nuts who have their own reading of the OM-A and with certain definitions (eg: visual app def.).