Innovator Visa
Global business mobility
Self Sponsorship
UK Business Visitor Visa
UK Paid Permitted Activity Visa
At A Y & J Solicitors in London, we’ve helped thousands of new and experienced business owners
move to the UK from around the world. We understand the typical challenges that come along with
your business visa application (or related visas) and our expert immigration lawyers know how to
mitigate them. We walk you through step by step, from setting up your business to settling your
loved ones in the UK and then how to approach a business visa extension when the time comes.
Instead of going it alone, let our specialist lawyers take the weight off your shoulders, so you can
rest easy knowing you’ll be able to bring your business (and your family) to the UK.
Kate Corey, Founder of 6 Degrees
We are specialists in immigration law and have supported more than 4,000 business owners and
professionals around the globe to successfully navigate the British system. We work quickly, always
responding to any queries within 24 working hours. And we work closely with the Home Office to
pre-empt issues before they jeopardise business visa applications or breach compliance. We manage
all United Kingdom immigration matters including visa applications under the new points-based
immigration system, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Spouse Visas, nationality, citizenship and
more. We also handle complex cases of appeal, administrative reviews, judicial reviews and the
many immigration challenges involving European Union law and human rights.
A Y & J Solicitors has more than 1,200 positive client reviews across Google and Trustpilot and is listed in The Legal 500 best UK law firms, so you can rest assured your immigration challenges are in safe hands when you take these three simple steps:
To qualify for a business visa in the UK, applicants must meet specific criteria that vary depending on the type of visa you need. For example, the Global Talent Visa requires an endorsement from a recognised UK body in fields like digital technology, arts and culture, research, or academia. The Innovator Founder Visa demands a viable, scalable business idea endorsed by an authorised body and sufficient funding. Generally, requirements include:
– Proof of business activity or proposal.
– Sufficient funds to support oneself and dependants.
– Meeting the English language requirement.
– Additional documents, such as a business plan, financial statements and relevant industry experience
To apply for a business visa in the UK, follow these steps:
1. Choose the appropriate visa type based on your business activities, such as the Innovator Founder
Visa , Self-Sponsorship visa route, or Global Talent Visa. If you are unsure, our team can guide you on the best route to take.
2. Complete the online application form on the UK government’s official visa and immigration website.
3. Pay the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.
4. Submit required documents, including a business plan, financial statements and proof of industry experience.
5. Attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide biometric information (fingerprints
and photograph).
Essential documents for a UK business visa application include:
– A valid passport or travel identification.
– Evidence of business activity or proposal, such as a detailed business plan for Innovator visas.
– Financial proof to support your stay and business operations in the UK, including bank statements
and funding evidence.
– Proof of meeting the English language requirement, such as a valid English language test result.
– Endorsement letters for visas like the Global Talent Visa.
– Additional documents may include previous business experience and educational qualifications
relevant to the business venture
Yes, you can apply for UK business visas online. This involves filling out the detailed application form, scheduling an appointment for biometric information submission and uploading the necessary supporting documents through the UK government’s official visa and immigration website. The application process can be complex, and we advise seeking expert legal advice to assist with the completion of your application.
The processing time for UK business visas varies depending on the visa type and the applicant’s circumstances. While the visitor visas typically take around 3 weeks. Business visas like the Global Talent Visa, Self-Sponsorship route, or the Innovator Founder Visa, may take longer often up to 8 weeks due to the need for thorough assessment of business proposals and endorsements
While there is no upper age limit for business visas, applicants must generally be 18 years or older to apply for visas requiring financial and legal responsibilities, such as the Innovator Founder Visa or the Global Talent Visa.
No, a job offer is not required for most business visas aimed at entrepreneurs and business owners looking to establish or run their businesses in the UK. Employment-based visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, do require a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
The duration of stay depends on the type of business visa:
– Standard Visitor Visa: Allows stays of up to 6 months per visit.
– Global Talent Visa: Granted for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extension and permanent settlement.
– Innovator Founder Visa: Typically allows a stay of 3 years, with the possibility of extension and settlement.
– Self-Sponsorship Visa: Allows you to establish and run your business in the UK, issued either for 3 years or less or 5 years or less, with the possibility of extension and settlement.
– High Potential Individual Visa: Generally, allows a stay of 2 years, if you have a PhD or other doctoral qualification, it will last for 3 years. with no extension but the possibility of switching to a different visa category for a further stay.
Sufficient Funds: Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to cover initial living costs and business operations without recourse to public funds.
– Bank Statements: Proof of savings through bank statements is typically required.
– Innovator Founder Visa: Evidence of at least £50,000 in investment funds or a maintenance grant is required. These funds must be held in one or more regulated financial institutions and be disposable in the UK.
– Global Talent Visa: No specific financial requirement, but applicants should have enough funds to support themselves.
– Self-Sponsorship Visa: Applicants need to show sufficient funds to establish and run the business in the UK, as well as personal maintenance funds.
– High Potential Individual Visa: Applicants must have at least £1,270 in their bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying
To extend your business visa, you must:
1. Check if you’re eligible for the specific business visa type.
2. Apply before your current visa expires.
2. Submit an online application for an extension through the UK government’s official visa and immigration website. We strongly advise you seek expert legal advice to guide you here.
3. Provide necessary documents, including proof of ongoing business activity, financial stability and
any other required endorsements.
4. Pay the applicable fee and healthcare surcharge.
5. Attend a biometric appointment if required.
You can refer to the UK government’s official website for more information on the business visa and specific eligibility requirements or you can get in touch with us for more tailored information and analysis
You can travel to the UK as soon as your business visa is granted and valid. Ensure you travel within the validity dates specified on your visa vignette. Typically, visas are granted with a start date that allows immediate travel but always check your visa documentation to confirm.
Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria for the specific type of business visa can apply. This includes:
– Entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas.
– Business leaders with a track record of success in their field.
– Entrepreneurs who want to open a UK branch of their business
– Individuals endorsed by recognised UK bodies in areas such as technology, arts, or research.
The Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa has been replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa. Eligibility for the Innovator Founder Visa includes:
– Having a new, viable, scalable business idea.
– Securing an endorsement from an authorised UK endorsing body.
– Meeting the English language and financial requirements
For expert assistance with your business visa application process, contact A Y & J Solicitors. We have extensive experience with UK immigration law and can guide you through each step of the application process, ensuring all requirements are met. Contact our team for a no-obligation exploratory chat.
Yes, most UK business visas allow you to bring family members, such as a spouse, civil partner, and dependants under 18. Each family member must apply for their respective dependant visa, providing proof of relationship and sufficient funds for their maintenance during their stay in the UK.
The UK Home Office is responsible for issuing business visas. They assess applications, verify documents and grant visas to eligible applicants based on the visa type and provided information.
A Y & J Solicitors is ideally placed to explain the financial requirements for a business visa in the UK. We have a team of experienced immigration experts who can help you understand the necessary financial proof, such as bank statements and investment funds, to support your visa application.
A Y & J Solicitors can assist you with preparing a comprehensive business plan for your visa application. Their expertise ensures that your business proposal meets the requirements set by the UK endorsing bodies and immigration authorities.
Eligibility requirements for a business visa in the UK include:
The criteria will vary depending on the type of visa route you take. More details for each specific visa could be found in this FAQ section
The application process for a business visa in the UK involves:
1. Selecting the appropriate visa type based on your business activities.
2. Completing the online application form on the UK government’s visa and immigration website.
3. Paying the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.
4. Submitting required documents, including a business plan and financial proof.
5. Attending a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
The cost of a business visa depends on the type:
• Standard Visitor Visa: £115 for 6 months. Long-term options are available at higher costs: £432 for 2 years, £771for 5 years, and £963 for 10 years. Please note that you cannot do full fledged business on the standard business visitor visa route and can only visit the UK for up to 6 months which allows you to do restricted business activites.
• Global Talent Visa: £716 for the main applicant and each dependant, plus a healthcare surcharge of £1035 per year.
• Innovator Founder Visa: £1,191 for applications made outside the UK and £1,486 for switching to this visa from within the UK, plus a healthcare surcharge.
• Self-Sponsorship Visa: The cost varies depending on the length of Skilled Worker Visa Typically, it includes Sponsor Licence fee, visa fees, healthcare surcharge and costs related to business establishment.
• High Potential Individual Visa: £822for the main applicant and each dependant, plus a healthcare surcharge of £1035 per year.
These costs are subject to change and additional fees may apply depending on specific circumstances and any additional services required.
Privileges:
• Ability to start, manage, and grow a business: Business visa holders can set up and run a business in the UK, including being involved in day-to-day management and strategic decisions.
• Opportunity to bring family members as dependants: Visa holders can bring their spouse/partner and children under 18 to the UK. Dependants are allowed to work and study in the UK.
• Pathway to permanent settlement and citizenship: Many business visas, such as the Innovator Founder Visa, Self-Sponsorship visa route and the Global Talent Visa, provide a route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.
• Access to a broad market: Being in the UK allows business visa holders to access the UK market and potentially expand to the European market.
• Networking opportunities: Being based in the UK provides opportunities to connect with other businesses, investors and industry professionals.
• High-quality infrastructure and services: Benefit from the UK’s robust business infrastructure, legal protections and professional services.
Limitations:
• Compliance with visa conditions and UK immigration laws: Visa holders must adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of their visa, including working only in the business activities permitted under their visa category.
• Periodic renewal or extension: Business visas are typically granted for a specific duration and may need to be renewed or extended. This involves demonstrating continued eligibility and compliance with visa requirements.
• Restrictions on accessing public funds: Business visa holders cannot access public funds, meaning they must be financially self-sufficient and able to support themselves and their dependants without relying on UK government assistance.
• Specific investment requirements: Some visas, such as the Innovator Founder Visa, require applicants to demonstrate access to significant investment funds.
• Requirement to maintain business viability: For visas like the Innovator Founder Visa, the business must continue to be viable, innovative and scalable to qualify for visa extensions and eventual settlement.
• Healthcare surcharge: Business visa holders are required to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application, which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) but adds to the overall cost.
• Restrictions on certain activities: Some business visas may have specific restrictions, such as not allowing employment outside the business activities approved under the visa.
While the UK business visa requirements are generally consistent, there may be additional criteria or restrictions for applicants from certain countries. These can include providing tuberculosis test results or meeting specific financial thresholds. Always check the UK government’s visa and immigration website for detailed information specific to your nationality.
For comprehensive guidance on preparing for a UK business visa interview, consider the following
resources:
• A Y & J Solicitors: As experienced immigration lawyers, our solicitors offer expert advice on the business visa interview process. We can help you understand typical questions, gather required documents and present your business plan effectively. Our services include one-on-one consultations, mock interviews and personalised feedback to ensure you are well prepared.
• Home Office Guidance: The UK government’s official website (gov.uk) provides detailed guidance on the visa interview process. This includes information on what to expect during the interview, the types of questions that may be asked, and the documents you need to bring.
• Business Plan Preparation: Ensure your business plan is thorough and well-prepared. This should include details about your business model, market analysis, financial projections and how your business will contribute to the UK economy. A Y & J Solicitors can assist in refining your business plan to meet the requirements of the Home Office.
• Practice Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with colleagues or professionals who can provide constructive feedback. Practising your responses to potential questions can help you feel more confident and prepared.
• Documentation Checklist: Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready for your interview. This typically includes your passport, business plan, financial statements, proof of investment funds and any other supporting documentation required for your specific visa type. A Y & J Solicitors can provide a detailed checklist tailored to your application.
• Feedback from Successful Applicants: Learning from the experiences of individuals who have successfully obtained a UK business visa can provide valuable insights. We can connect you with past clients who have navigated the interview process successfully.
By leveraging these resources, you can approach your UK business visa interview with confidence, knowing you are well-prepared to present your case effectively.
If your UK business visa application is rejected, seek help from A Y & J Solicitors. Our experienced immigration lawyers can assist with understanding the reasons for rejection, providing guidance on reapplication and representing you in any appeals or reviews.
If you are a non-UK resident willing to start your business in the UK, you must apply for a UK business visa. The eligibility and application procedure will depend on multiple factors, such as the type of business activities you wish to carry out, the kind of business you want to establish in the UK and the duration of your stay.
As an effect of Brexit, the UK visa requirements and rules for EEA (European Economic Area) and non-EEA nationals are the same. Also, the CTA (Central Travel Area) ensures that no restrictions are put on Irish citizens who want to set up a business or work in the UK.
A UK business visa allows interested individuals to stay in the UK and carry out overseas businessrelated activities. Under the present UK immigration business rules, there are several kinds of business visas. The following categories allow for business activities:
– Short-term business
– Standard visitor visa
– Long-term UK business visa
– Global Talent Visa
– Innovator Founder Visa
– Global Mobility visa
– Self-Sponsorship Visa Route
You cannot apply more than 3 months in advance for your travel date as stated on the visit visa from UK. It will cost you £115, and you can stay for six months.
You can also apply for a 2-year Standard Visitor visa for £432, a 5-year Standard Visitor visa for £771, and a 10-year Standard Visitor visa for £963. The maximum stay in the UK per visit will be capped at six months regardless of the type of Standard Visitor visa you apply for. You will need to book an appointment at a Visa application centre, where you need to provide your biometric information, identify proof, and other eligibility documentation.
You can stay as a Standard Visitor in the UK for business purposes for up to six months at a stretch. However, you will have permitted business activities to only partake in permitted activities, such as
Non-UK residents who wish to stay in the UK on a long-term basis for business purposes can apply for the following types of visas:
You need to meet UK business visa eligibility criteria and requirements. If “How do I start a business in the UK” commonly pops up, below you can find detailed information explaining more about each visa.
The Global Talent Visa replaces the Tier 1 Visa. If you are a potential leader or a leader in any one of the following areas, you can apply for the Global Talent visa:
This visa will also allow you to live and work for up to 5 years in the UK as a self-employed person, the director of a company, or an employee. A relevant authority must endorse your application with expertise in your field, or you should have an eligible award stating your expertise. It would cost you £716 plus a healthcare surcharge of £1035 per year
If you want to know how to start a business in the UK, you must first apply for a genuine visa route
You can apply online for a Global Talent visa. You need to provide the following details:
– A valid passport or any other document that shows your nationality and identity
– Proof of your relationship to your partner or children who are applying with you
– A certified translation of documents that are not in Welsh or English
– Tuberculosis test results if your country falls under the list where tests are required
Eligibility Requirements
To get your Global Talent visa, you need to have one of the following:
– An eligible job offer as a researcher or an academic
– An eligible award
– A research grant approved by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation)
– An individual fellowship
It should take around three weeks to process your application If you’re outside the UK and 8 weeks if you’re within the UK. However, it may take longer, depending on your circumstances.
The Innovator Founder Visa replaces the old Innovator and Start-Up visas. If you are considering getting an entrepreneur visa in the UK, apply for the Innovator Founder Visa. This visa will enable you to live in the UK for three years and extend it again three years after the visa expiration.
Applying for a visa outside of the UK will cost you £1,191 per person and £1,486 if you switch your key while living in the UK. You have to pay for the immigration health charge.
People with different business minds often ask this question: “How to start a company in the UK“? Applying for an Innovator Founder visa is the right answer to their question.
You can apply online for an Innovator Founder Visa by providing the following details:
– An endorsement letter
– Proof that you meet the English language requirement
– A valid passport or any other document that shows your nationality and identity
– Bank statements that show you had savings of a minimum of £1,270 for 28 consecutive days in your bank account
– A certified translation of documents that are not in Welsh or English
– Tuberculosis test results if your country falls under the list where tests are required It can take around three to eight weeks, depending on your type of application.
You can apply for an Innovator Founder Visa if you have a new, innovative, viable, and scalable business idea
The UK government designs UK expansion worker visas for senior business professionals and employees with exceptional talent in their fields. This visa route allows overseas businesses to transfer their extraordinary employees to establish a subsidiary or branch in the United Kingdom.
If you are currently hired as a senior manager or specialist employee for an overseas company, then you can apply for Global Business Mobility.
Let’s understand the financial requirements you need to meet:
– Pay £298 as an application fee
– Pay £1035 as a healthcare surcharge
– Have at least £1,270 in your account. You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 consecutive days
Global Business Mobility visa is the answer to: “How to start up a Business in UK”. You will need:
– The reference number of your sponsorship certificate from your employer
– Your annual salary and job title
– The occupation code of your job
– The name of your overseas firm, along with the sponsor licence number
– A valid passport or any other document that shows your nationality and identity.
You may be asked to provide additional documentation or information.
You can opt for a High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, if you have been awarded a qualification by an eligible university. A list of eligible universities can be found on the UK government’s official website. You must pay £210 for Ecctis to prove your documentation, £1035 per year of HIS fee, and £822 as an application fee. Ecctis is a UK-based organisation that provides information, advice and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. It was formerly known as UK NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centre). You would also be required to pay £2070 for two years as a healthcare surcharge or £3105 for three years. You must also have a minimum of £1,270 in your account. Though it’s not a long-term visa, this route is considered as a UK work visa.
Here’s how you can apply for a High Potential Individual Visa:
You can apply for a High Potential Individual Visa online by providing the following documents:
With Self-Sponsorship, you will essentially establish a business in the UK and then sponsor your own visa to enable you to move to the UK and grow your business. This might sound like it is against the rules, but we assure you that it is a viable route toward starting a business in the UK.
You could have already established a business elsewhere and have your sights set on expanding into UK markets. Or you might have seen a business for sale in the UK that you would like to purchase. This is an incredibly flexible route that does not require any endorsement. This visa allows you to establish your own company and work for yourself on a Skilled Worker Visa
You can see our complete guide to self-sponsorship here.
A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience in all visa types for entrepreneurs and businesspeople. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or via the button below today. We’re here to help.
