Disclaimer: The information in this blog is accurate as of its publication date. Any updates after that date are not reflected here.
Moving to the UK to launch a new business venture offers an enticing commercial and lifestyle opportunity for Saudi entrepreneurs. From the dynamic financial hubs of London to the innovative tech scenes in cities like Manchester and Birmingham, the prospects of commercial growth and success are considerable. The UK’s strong economy, diverse business market, and rich cultural scene make it an attractive destination for business-minded individuals.
Saudi nationals will need a UK visa to establish a business in the UK. The UK offers several visa types tailored to different business needs. This includes the UK Innovator Founder visa, the Global Business Mobility visa, the Visitor visa, and the Self-Sponsorship route. Each visa type has its specific criteria and benefits, and choosing the right one can significantly enhance your business prospects.
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Types of Visas to Open a New Business in the UK
UK Innovator Founder Visa
In particular, the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for Saudi entrepreneurs with plans to launch a new and innovative business here. Additionally, you can bring your immediate family members and stay for up to three years. After the 3-year period, you may apply for permanent settlement. As such, this visa provides a faster route to settlement compared to the standard five-year residency requirement.Moreover, to be eligible for the UK business visa of Innovator Founder, you must have a new, innovative, viable, and scalable business idea that has been endorsed by an approved endorsing body. Furthermore, you will also need to speak, read, write, and understand English to the required level. Along with that, you must show enough money to support yourself and your family during your stay in the UK.
Self-Sponsorship route
‘Another popular business immigration option for Saudi entrepreneurs is the Self-Sponsorship route. We recommend watching the video above, which explains how Saudi citizens can set up a business in the UK and sponsor themselves. There are three main steps to apply for a Self-Sponsorship route, as follows:
- Set up a UK Business – i.e. find premises, register your business, and open a bank account.
- Sponsor Licence Application – Having set up your business, you can then apply for a sponsor licence. To do so, you will need to demonstrate to the Home Office that your business has the systems and processes needed to sponsor overseas staff. Additionally, the application fee is £574 for small businesses and £1,579 for large companies.
- Skilled Worker Visa Application – Having been issued with a Certificate of Sponsorship by your business, you are then in a position to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.
At A Y & J Solicitors, our expert business immigration solicitors can handle this process for you from start to finish. We will explain the requirements, guide you through the sponsor licence process, and prepare your visa application on your behalf. If you need more detailed guidance on the Self-Sponsorship route, download this free ultimate guide.
Types of UK Business Visas to Expand My Current Business in the UK Market
Global Business Mobility (GBM) – Expansion Worker Visa
If you are a Saudi national with an existing business (or you are a representative of that business), the Global Business Mobility (GBM) Expansion Worker Visa will enable you to set up a branch or subsidiary here. To apply, you must have a certificate of sponsorship and have worked within the Saudi business for at least one year in an eligible job. Pay the going rate for your specific occupation (as published in the Immigration Rules) or, if higher, any role-specific minimum (e.g. Senior/ Specialist Workers have a minimum of £45,800–£48,500).
Once your visa has been granted, you can remain in the UK for up to 12 months initially, and this can be further extended for another 12 months. After 2 years, you can then switch to a different visa type, allowing you to stay longer and even settle permanently.
Types of UK Business Visas to Visit the UK for a Business Meeting
UK Visitor Visa
If you are a Saudi citizen planning to come to the UK for up to 6 months to attend business meetings or conferences or sign contracts, you can apply for a UK Visitor Visa. Because visitor visas are quick and easy to apply for, Saudi nationals can come here on business on short notice.
It is important to check that you are coming to the UK for a permitted reason; these are to:
- Attend interviews, meetings, conferences and seminars
- Negotiate and sign deals and contracts
- Attend trade fairs to promote your business
- Receive work-related training if you’re employed overseas, and the training is not available in your home country
- Provide a one-off or short series of talks as long as they’re not for profit or a commercial event
- Perform site visits and inspections
- Oversee the delivery of goods and services provided by a UK company to your overseas company or organisation
- Provide training or share knowledge on internal projects with UK employees of the company you work for overseas, and
- Install, dismantle, repair, service or advise on equipment, computer software and hardware, if your overseas company has a contract with a UK company or organisation.
To visit the UK for business as a Saudi national, you will need an invitation letter from the UK business you are planning to visit.
Tips for Making a Successful UK Business Visa Application from Saudi
If you are a Saudi national aiming to set up a business in the UK, here is how you can increase the chances of your UK business visa application being approved by the Home Office on the first attempt:
Prepare a Strong Visa Application Backed Up by a Comprehensive Business Plan
Clearly set out your new business plans, including thorough market research and detailed financial projections. Highlight the innovative aspects of your business and take the time to fully meet the endorsement requirements. If you are unsure of the endorsement requirements, speak to an immigration Solicitor or the endorsing body directly.
Carefully Prepare Your Evidence and Documentation
Collect all of the essential documents required for your UK business visa application, such as financial statements, business endorsements, and evidence of your business activities both in Saudi and the UK. Ensure all documents are translated into English if necessary. Present them logically and clearly so the case officer can easily find the required information.
Get Professional Advice from an Immigration Solicitor
Consider having your application prepared (or at least checked over) by an experienced UK immigration solicitor. They can handle the process on your behalf and address any questions or queries raised by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), increasing the likelihood of making a successful application.
Can Saudi Iqama Holders Travel to the UK?
Saudi Iqama holders cannot enter the UK without a visa. First, they have to apply for a Visitor visa online via GOV.UK—regardless of Iqama status. Next, they submit a valid passport, current Iqama, and supporting documents (e.g., bank statements). Finally, they attend a biometric appointment and await approval for the UK visa. When approved, they can enter the UK.
Common Reasons for Rejection
Even the smallest error or oversight can lead to the refusal of a business visa application. Here are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not meeting the eligibility criteria – Ensure you meet all of the applicable eligibility requirements before applying. Consult an immigration solicitor if you are uncertain about any aspect.
- Submitting an incomplete application – Fill out all sections of your application honestly, completely and accurately.
- Following the incorrect process – Always follow the correct application process without cutting corners. Following the wrong process will almost certainly lead to refusal.
- Concerns that you are not a genuine applicant – it is vital that you convey yourself as a candidate with a genuine intention to set up a business in the UK
- Lack of support funds – You will need to show that you have the necessary financial resources to support your stay and business activities.
- Not meeting the English language requirement
- Old or expired documents
- Unclear business purpose – Your business plan should have a well-defined purpose and clearly benefit the UK economy.
- Errors and mistakes – Minor mistakes, like ticking the wrong box, can result in rejection. Have your application checked by an immigration solicitor before submission.
By meticulously preparing your application, gathering all necessary documents, and seeking professional advice, you can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a UK business visa and embarking on your entrepreneurial journey in the UK.
Prepare a strong visa application
Top 5 YouTube Videos for Saudi Nationals Setting Up a Business in the UK
YouTube is an excellent source of information for Saudi nationals who want to start a business in the UK. Here are the top 5 that we recommend you watch:
- A Y & J Solicitors: How to Start Your Business in the UK – Offers detailed insights into visa requirements and business setup in the UK.
- A Y & J Solicitors: UK Innovator Founder Visa – Explains all you need to know about this visa route
- A Y & J Solicitors: UK Innovator Founder Visa – Best Way To Self Sponsor UK Visa 2024 – UK Visa Application Process For Self Sponsorship Work Permit
- Curiosity Insight: How to Start a Business in the UK as a Foreigner? Starting a Business in UK as a Foreigner – Discussed opening a bank account and choosing your business structure
- UK Knowledge Guru: How to Start a Company in the UK – UK Business Formation Online with Companies House.
Success Story – Establishing a Business in the UK as a Foreign National
Kate Corey, originally from Tennessee, faced significant challenges in finding a visa route as a self-employed individual owning a small business. Despite consultations with various Solicitors, she was repeatedly told that no viable option existed. However, when she connected with A Y & J Solicitors, her situation changed dramatically.
Choosing A Y & J Solicitors due to their strong reputation, Kate received a thorough consultation where her extensive research was attentively reviewed. The firm proposed a straightforward solution: establishing a UK Ltd company, obtaining a Sponsor Licence, and sponsoring herself, which proved successful.
More details of how we helped Kate apply through the self-sponsorship route can be found here.
Final Words
Moving to Great Britain from Saudi to set up and run a business can be an extremely rewarding experience. By choosing the most suitable visa and preparing a strong application, you can make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality. In this guide, we have covered the key points for Saudi nationals looking to set up a business in the UK, including the types of business visas available, tips for making a successful application, the common reasons for rejection, and some useful resources.
Still confused about what visa route to take or unable to find a visa route? Get a free assessment with one of our experts at A Y & J Solicitors.
At A Y & J Solicitors, we have handled over 100s of successful Self-Sponsorship applications. With a 95% success rate, we have achieved an overall track record of 5,000+ successful immigration and visa cases through our result-driven approach to every application. We take on each client with the genuine intention to provide our undivided care and attention to their case. We guide you through every step of your Self-Sponsorship process, so you can trust the experts to manage your application and work toward your success.
Why A Y & J Solicitors?
With over thousands of successful immigration cases to our name, A Y & J Solicitors has built its reputation on trust, care, and real results. Over the 15+ years of working in UK immigration law, we’ve helped individuals and businesses confidently navigate sponsor licences, visas, and ILR applications. We’re proud to be recognised by The Legal 500, but it’s our clients’ peace of mind that matters most. When you work with us, you get clear advice, honest support, and a team that’s truly on your side.
