Business and Investor Visas

The UK offers several visa options for entrepreneurs and investors, each with specific eligibility criteria and benefits. Here's an overview of the primary visas available:

1. Innovator Founder Visa

The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs seeking to establish an innovative business in the UK. Applicants must have a new and viable business idea with the potential for growth, supported by an endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a new and viable business idea with the potential for growth.
• Obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
• Demonstrate sufficient investment funds to set up and grow the business.
• Be the sole or an instrumental member of the business's founding team.
• Meet the English language requirement at CEFR Level B2.

Benefits:

• Permission to stay in the UK for up to 3 years, with the possibility to extend.
• Opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after meeting specific requirements.
• Ability to bring family members (dependents) to the UK.

2. Start-up Visa

The Start-up Visa is intended for individuals starting their first business venture in the UK. It focuses on fostering innovation and requires endorsement from an approved body.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea.
• Obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body, such as a UK higher education institution or a business organization.
• Meet the English language requirement at CEFR Level B2.
• Demonstrate sufficient personal savings to support yourself in the UK.

Benefits:

• Permission to stay in the UK for up to 2 years.
• No initial investment funds required.
• Opportunity to switch to the Innovator Founder Visa for long-term settlement.
• Access to the UK's vibrant start-up ecosystem.

3. Tier 1 (Investor) Visa

As of February 17, 2022, the UK has closed the Tier 1 (Investor) Visa route to new applicants. However, individuals who already hold this visa, or held one in the last 12 months as their most recent visa, can still apply to extend their visa or settle in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for Extensions and Settlement:

• Maintain at least £2 million under your control in the UK.
• Invested those funds in share capital or loan capital in active UK companies.
• Meet the residency requirements, spending no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months during the qualifying period.

Benefits:

• Permission to stay in the UK for an additional 2 years upon extension.
• Eligibility to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after meeting specific investment and residency requirements.
• Ability to include family members (dependents) in your application.

Application Process for Business Visas:

1. Research and Preparation:

   • Identify the visa category that aligns with your business goals.
   • Prepare a comprehensive business plan demonstrating innovation, viability, and scalability.

2. Endorsement:

   • Secure an endorsement from an approved body by presenting your business idea and plan.

3. Online Application:

   • Complete the online application form for the chosen visa category.
   • Pay the application fee and the healthcare surcharge.

4. Biometrics and Documentation:

   • Provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application center.
   • Submit supporting documents, including proof of identity, endorsement, and financial evidence.

5. Await Decision:

   • Processing times vary; ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.