Abstract A visible-light induced metal-free approach was described for the hydroxyalkylation of 2H-benzothiazoles with alcohols by using selectfluor as the oxidant. A variety of 2H-benzothiazoles and alcohols could be tolerated, providing a mild and simple method for the synthesis of C2-hydroxyalkylated 2H-benzothiazoles in moderate to good yields. Besides, ethers were also compatible in this reaction