If you wish to invest in, start a business, or work in the UK, you will need a valid Business Visa UK. Additionally, if you plan to hire foreign nationals for UK-based companies, obtaining a sponsorship license is mandatory. Understanding the visa process is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful application.
At Temple Gate Solicitors, we specialize in UK immigration services and can assist you in obtaining the right visa for your business or work-related needs.
A Business Visa UK is essential for entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals looking to establish or expand their careers in the United Kingdom. Whether you plan to set up a new business, invest in a growing industry, or work for a UK company, obtaining the right Business Visa UK ensures you meet all legal requirements. The application process can be complex, with different visa types catering to various business needs. Choosing the correct Business Visa UK not only secures your ability to operate legally but also provides long-term growth opportunities in the UK market.
At Temple Gate Solicitors, we specialize in helping clients navigate the UK’s immigration system, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process.
Navigating the UK’s business and work visa system can be complex, as multiple visa categories often overlap. Below are the main types of Business Visa UK
This visa is ideal for individuals looking to establish an innovative business in the UK. You must demonstrate a viable business idea and receive endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
If you are an entrepreneur with an innovative business idea but lack prior business experience, the Start-Up Visa allows you to enter the UK to develop your business.
For individuals seeking employment in the UK, the Skilled Worker Visa enables qualified professionals to work for UK businesses that hold a sponsorship license.
This category includes visas for businesses transferring staff to UK branches, allowing companies to expand operations within the country.
Designed for businesses planning to establish a presence in the UK, this visa permits senior employees to enter the UK and set up operations.
At Temple Gate Solicitors, we provide expert guidance on selecting the right visa, preparing your application, and ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws. Whether you need a Business Visa UK for investment, entrepreneurship, or employment, we are here to support you every step of the way.
For personalized assistance with your Business Visa UK, contact Temple Gate Solicitors today. Our immigration specialists will ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.
📞 Phone: +44 (0) 207 183 8043
📧 Email: info@templegatesolicitors.com
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Tier 1 is a route generally intended for ‘high-value migrants’ such as investors and entrepreneurs who have funds available to set up or invest in a business in the UK. You will find an overview of the different Toer 1 options available. Please note that due to recent changes in the law, we have noted where a number of these Tier 1 options are no longer available.
The UK Investor visa route is no longer available for new applicants. However, individuals with existing entry clearance or leave to enter or remain under the Tier 1 Investor Migrant category can apply to extend their stay or for indefinite leave to remain. Key deadlines for applications are as follows:
The UK Investor visa is designed for high net worth individuals capable of making substantial financial investments in the UK. Visa holders enjoy various privileges, including the right to work, study, and engage in business activities in the UK. They can also be accompanied or joined by their dependants.
Typically, UK Investor visa holders can apply for settlement in the UK after residing in the country for a period of 5 years. Accelerated settlement options are available for those who make larger investments in the UK.
To qualify for a UK Investor visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
For further information or assistance with your UK Investor visa application, contact our UK Tier 1 Investor visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form.
Upon entering the UK Investor visa category, applicants are required to invest a minimum of £2 million in qualifying investments. The permitted UK Investor visa investment options include share capital and/or loan capital in actively trading UK registered companies. The investment must be made within 90 days of entering the UK Investor visa category.
The Immigration Rules specify various restrictions on permitted investments. Prohibited investments include those in offshore companies or trusts, open-ended investment companies, and companies primarily engaged in property investment, property management, or property development.
The requirements for extending a UK Investor visa vary based on when the initial visa was granted. Advice from an immigration lawyer ensures compliance with the Immigration Rules.
Eligibility for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) depends on the duration of stay in the UK and the amount of investment. Detailed information is available on the UK Investor Visa ILR page or through consultation with specialist immigration lawyers.
The UK Investor visa scheme remains open to new applicants with access to at least £2 million seeking settlement in the UK.
Temple Gate Solicitors prides itself on its proactive approach, clear communication, and dedication to providing reliable immigration advice to investors, ensuring a professional and friendly service.
Before the expiration of your initial UK Investor visa, you may apply to extend your stay as a UK Investor visa holder. The requirements for the extension application depend on when your initial visa was granted, specifically if it was before 6 November 2014, between 6 November 2014 and 28 March 2019, or on or after 29 March 2019. It’s essential to note that applications for further leave to remain as a Tier 1 Investor can be made until 17 February 2026.
Consultation and Assistance:For expert advice and assistance in preparing and submitting your UK Investor visa extension application, consult with immigration lawyers. They can ensure compliance with the Immigration Rules and provide personalized guidance based on your circumstances.
If you obtained your UK Investor visa on or after 29 March 2019, meeting the following criteria is necessary to qualify for an extension of stay:
For personalized guidance on meeting the extension requirements and ensuring the correct timing of your application, consider consulting with immigration lawyers. They can provide expert advice tailored to your circumstances.
For additional information or assistance with your UK Investor visa extension, contact our UK Tier 1 Investor visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form.
Note: Applications for further leave to remain as a Tier 1 Investor can be made until 17 February 2026.
Yes, it is possible to extend your UK Investor visa while you are outside the UK. If you currently hold a UK Investor visa, you can apply for an extension of your stay in the UK Investor visa category from abroad.
The Immigration Rules stipulate stringent requirements regarding the documentation necessary to support a UK Investor visa extension application. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can ensure that your application is professionally presented and technically accurate.
Should you require assistance with your UK Investor visa extension, do not hesitate to reach out to our UK Tier 1 Investor visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form.
As a UK Investor visa holder, you may qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK after residing in the country for 2, 3, or 5 years. The eligibility criteria for UK Investor visa ILR depend on when your initial Tier 1 Investor visa was granted and the amount of your investment. Applications for indefinite leave to remain as a Tier 1 Investor can be made until 17 February 2028.
For assistance with your Tier 1 Investor ILR application and guidance on meeting the requirements, consider consulting with our immigration barristers by contacting us at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or completing our enquiry form.
If your UK Investor visa was granted between 6 November 2014 and 28 March 2019, you can apply for Tier 1 Investor ILR if you meet the following requirements:
If your UK Investor visa was granted on or after 29 March 2019, the ILR criteria are as follows:
For personalized advice on your UK Investor visa ILR application, consult Temple Gate Solicitors by contacting us at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or completing our enquiry form.
You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Tier 1 Investor route once you’ve resided in the UK as a Tier 1 Investor for a continuous period of 5 years. However, as a UK Investor visa holder, you may apply for accelerated ILR after a continuous period of either 2 years or 3 years if you’ve maintained an investment of at least £10 million or £5 million respectively.
You can apply for UK Investor visa ILR up to 28 days before reaching the relevant qualifying period. Your qualifying period will be the 2, 3, or 5 years immediately before the date you apply for settlement or before the date your settlement application is decided, whichever is more favorable to you. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer will ensure the correct timing of your UK Investor visa ILR application.
To qualify for ILR as a Tier 1 Investor, you must not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during your qualifying 2, 3, or 5-year period.
For absences during periods of leave granted under the Rules before 11 January 2018, the absence limit is 180 days during each consecutive 12-month period, ending on the same date of the year as the date of the UK Investor visa ILR application. For absences during periods of leave granted under the Rules since 11 January 2018, the Home Office considers a rolling 12-month period.
Days spent traveling to or from the UK are not counted towards the UK Investor visa ILR residence and absence requirement.
If you apply for ILR via UK Visa & Immigration’s standard service, expect a decision within 26 weeks of your ILR application date. Opting for the priority service typically results in a decision within 10 working days of your UKVCAS appointment.
For detailed information on interest, dividends, fees, transaction costs, and tax related to the UK Investor Visa, consult our resources on UK Investor Visa Interest and Dividends.
For personalized guidance on your UK Investor visa ILR settlement application, reach out to our immigration solicitors.
Unfortunately, Tier 1 Investor ILR applications can only be submitted from within the UK. You cannot apply for ILR settlement while outside the UK.
The Immigration Rules mandate strict requirements regarding the documents needed for a UK Investor visa ILR application. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can ensure that your application is professionally presented and technically correct.
Temple Gate Solicitors is widely recognized as a leading immigration practice for Tier 1 Investors. Our immigration solicitors have received accolades such as ‘Business Immigration Solicitors of the Year in England’ and ‘UK Business Immigration Solicitors of the Year’. Our expertise has been acknowledged through memberships in esteemed organizations like the Investment Migration Council and the Department of International Trade’s Investor Support Network.
Our investment immigration solicitors and lawyers collaborate closely with investors, wealth managers, and banks to prepare and submit high-quality ILR applications for investors and their families. We excel in navigating the intricate Home Office Immigration Rules and policies.
We are committed to providing clear, reliable immigration advice tailored to your needs, ensuring a professional and friendly service throughout the process.
If you currently hold a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa, you have the opportunity to apply for settlement in the UK until April 5, 2025. Upon successful application, you will be granted Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), freeing you from immigration time restrictions.
To qualify for indefinite leave to remain as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur, you must satisfy UK Visas & Immigration of the following:
There is also an accelerated route to settlement as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur after 3 years if you create at least 10 new full-time jobs or if your business has a turnover of at least £5 million.
The exact requirements may vary depending on your circumstances. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can provide expert guidance tailored to your situation.
To discuss your Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR application with one of our immigration barristers, contact our UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form below.
If you’ve established or invested in a business, you must have created the equivalent of two extra full-time paid jobs for at least two settled workers. These jobs must meet UK regulations and last for at least 12 months.
Given the complexity, consulting with an immigration lawyer early on can ensure you meet the requirement effectively.
You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Tier 1 Entrepreneur route after residing continuously in the UK as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur for 5 years.
To qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur, you must adhere to the following residence requirement:
If you apply for ILR as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur through UK Visa & Immigration’s standard service:
If your Tier 1 Entrepreneur extension or settlement application has been refused, you have options to challenge the decision. Our specialists in Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusals can advise you on the best course of action.
The Home Office may refuse Tier 1 Entrepreneur applications for various reasons. Common grounds for refusal include:
Seeking early advice from an immigration lawyer can help prevent a Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal. However, if your application has already been refused, legal assistance can still be beneficial. Our experts can assess the merits of challenging the refusal decision through Administrative Review or Judicial Review.
Legal advice following a Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal can lead to successful outcomes. Our specialists have experience in overturning refusal decisions and ensuring that your immigration objectives are achieved.
If you have received a Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal decision, contact our specialists for advice on challenging the decision and exploring your options for a successful outcome.
If your Tier 1 Entrepreneur extension or ILR application has been refused, you do not have the right to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). However, you have other options to challenge the decision.
You can request an Administrative Review of the refusal decision. During this process, a Home Office caseworker will review the decision for any caseworking errors. Administrative Review can only consider evidence that was not previously available to the original decision-maker.
If Administrative Review is unsuccessful, you may apply for Judicial Review of the Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal decision. Judicial Review examines whether the decision-making process was lawful and fair.
Alternatively, you can make a fresh application for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa extension or ILR.
It’s advisable to seek advice from an immigration lawyer to understand your options and ensure the correct timing of your Administrative Review application. Our immigration barristers specialize in Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal cases and can provide expert guidance.
To discuss your Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal decision, contact our specialists for tailored assistance.
Judicial Review provides a means to challenge a Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal decision based on illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness. Unlike Administrative Review, which focuses on casework errors, Judicial Review examines whether the decision-making process was legally and procedurally correct.
To initiate Judicial Review, an application for permission must be submitted promptly, typically within three months of the refusal decision. This application is made to the relevant court.
Judicial Review can be a lengthy and complex process, often requiring legal expertise to navigate effectively. It’s typically pursued after all other avenues of redress, including Administrative Review, have been exhausted.
Entrepreneur refusal decisions can be challenged based on the genuineness of the application. This involves demonstrating the authenticity and legitimacy of the business venture and investment.
Given the complexities of Judicial Review, seeking assistance from immigration lawyers experienced in Tier 1 Entrepreneur cases is advisable. Our team specializes in challenging Entrepreneur refusal decisions and can provide tailored legal guidance.
If you’re considering Judicial Review of your Tier 1 Entrepreneur refusal, contact our specialists for expert support.
Although the Tier 1 Entrepreneur category is no longer open to new applicants, you can still apply to extend your stay or settle in the UK as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur if you currently hold valid leave or have held Tier 1 Entrepreneur leave in the past 12 months.
If your application for Tier 1 Entrepreneur leave has been refused, our immigration barristers can assist in several ways:
Temple Gate Solicitors have extensive experience in handling Tier 1 Entrepreneur cases and can provide tailored legal assistance to address your specific situation.
The UK Innovator Founder Visa is designed for start-up entrepreneurs and experienced businesspersons aiming to establish a business in the UK. Here are the key points:
To qualify, applicants must meet several requirements, including:
The specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration solicitor at Temple Gate Solicitors for tailored guidance.
For assistance with the UK Innovator Founder Visa application, individuals can contact the business immigration solicitor at Temple Gate Solicitors for consultation.
The UK Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for:
Business Idea:
Joining Existing Businesses:
Alternative Visa Options:
Investment Funds Requirement:
Consultation:
For tailored advice on whether your business idea qualifies for the UK Innovator Founder Visa, individuals can complete the Innovator Founder Visa Enquiry Form.
Overview: If you’re interested in establishing or owning a business in the UK, you may qualify for a UK Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship. This pathway allows individuals to be sponsored by their own UK company, leading to potential settlement in the UK. Dependent partners and children can also join applicants under this visa category.
Requirements: To sponsor yourself for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must meet several criteria, including:
Consultation with Immigration Lawyers: Due to the variation in requirements based on individual circumstances, it’s advisable to consult with immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors for expert guidance on your self-sponsorship UK Skilled Worker visa application.
Contact Information: To discuss your application, you can reach out to our self-sponsorship work visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
Navigating the process of self-sponsorship for a UK Skilled Worker visa requires attention to detail and compliance with immigration regulations. Our team is dedicated to providing the necessary support and expertise to ensure a successful application.
Step 1: Establish a UK Company To sponsor yourself for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you must first establish a UK company. This can be done by either registering a new company in the UK or utilizing an existing UK company that meets the requirements.
Registering a UK Company from Overseas:
Engaging Professional Assistance:
Contact Information: For further assistance or inquiries about registering a UK company from overseas, you can reach out to our self-sponsorship UK Skilled Worker visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
Next Steps: Once your UK company is established, you can proceed to the next steps of applying for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship, and finally, applying for your UK Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship.
Navigating the process of establishing a UK company from overseas requires attention to detail and compliance with regulations. Our team is dedicated to providing the necessary support and expertise to ensure a smooth process.
Stage 2: Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence
Once your UK company is established, the next crucial step in obtaining a UK Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship is for your business to apply for and receive a Skilled Worker sponsor licence.
The Home Office will assess your application to ensure that:
Documents Required for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Application: To demonstrate that your business is genuine and operating lawfully in the UK, you’ll need to provide specific documents outlined in Appendix A of the sponsor guidance. For start-up businesses trading for less than 18 months, the following documents are typically required:
Mandatory Document:
Plus any Three of the Following Documents:
Seeking Professional Advice: As requirements may vary based on your specific circumstances, it’s advisable to seek professional advice to ensure compliance with all necessary documentation.
Contact Information: For expert guidance on preparing your Skilled Worker sponsor licence application, you can reach out to our self-sponsorship UK Skilled Worker visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
Next Steps: Once your sponsor licence application is approved, you can proceed with assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship and applying for your UK Skilled Worker visa.
Navigating the sponsor licence application process requires attention to detail and adherence to Home Office requirements. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to help your business obtain the necessary licence for self-sponsorship.
Yes, it is possible for a non-UK resident to open a business bank account in the UK, although the process may vary depending on individual circumstances and the requirements of different banks.
Research and Consultation: It’s advisable to research different banks and their requirements for non-UK residents. Contacting banks directly to inquire about their specific documentation and procedures can provide clarity on what is needed to open a business bank account.
Professional Assistance: Consulting with a professional familiar with the banking sector can be beneficial. They can help navigate the process, explain options available, and ensure all necessary requirements are met.
Expert Guidance: Our team works closely with professionals in the financial services sector who may assist clients in opening UK business bank accounts. For more information, reach out to our self-sponsorship UK Skilled Worker visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
Navigating the process of opening a business bank account in the UK as a non-resident requires attention to detail and understanding of each bank’s requirements. With expert guidance, you can streamline the process and establish the necessary banking infrastructure for your business endeavors in the UK.
No, your UK business does not necessarily need to be actively trading or generating revenue in the UK to sponsor yourself for a UK Skilled Worker visa. However, having certain elements in place can strengthen your application and demonstrate the genuineness of your business.
To obtain a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, your business must prove its capability to fulfil sponsor duties, including record-keeping and compliance with immigration laws. This involves having adequate human resources and recruitment systems in place to monitor sponsored workers and ensure compliance.
Genuine Employment Offer:
The Home Office will assess whether your job offers meet the required skill and salary levels for the Skilled Worker route. Additionally, they will scrutinize the genuineness of the employment, ensuring there’s a direct employer-employee relationship and the role is not outsourced to a third party.
Application Requirements:
As part of your sponsor licence application, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your company, its structure, employees, and the intended roles you plan to sponsor. This includes job descriptions, salary details, and recruitment processes.
How We Can Assist:
Our immigration solicitors specialize in assisting start-up business owners secure Skilled Worker sponsor licences and sponsor themselves for work in the UK. We provide comprehensive support throughout the application process, ensuring compliance with all requirements.
To explore how we can assist you with your self-sponsored UK Skilled Worker visa application, contact our dedicated team at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form below.
Navigating the complexities of sponsoring yourself for a UK Skilled Worker visa requires careful preparation and adherence to immigration regulations. With our expertise, you can optimize your chances of a successful application and pursue your business goals in the UK.
Before applying for a sponsor licence, you must appoint three key personnel:
Considerations for Self-Sponsorship:
For self-sponsorship, you’ll need a trusted individual in the UK, either British or settled, who can serve as a paid director or employee of your business.
If considering a third-party agent, ensure they can satisfy the Home Office of their involvement and oversight. Compliance visits to the Authorising Officer’s premises are common.
Stage 3: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
After obtaining the sponsor licence, you’ll apply for and assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for each migrant worker. The CoS is essential for visa applications and includes:
Stage 4: Apply for a Self-Sponsored UK Skilled Worker Visa
To apply for the visa, ensure:
Applications can be made up to 3 months before starting work in the UK. Decision times vary but typically range from 3 weeks for overseas applications to 8 weeks for in-country switches or extensions.
Navigating the self-sponsorship process requires attention to detail and compliance with immigration regulations. Our specialists can guide you through each stage to optimize your chances of success.
The UK Representative of an Overseas Business visa, previously a viable avenue for new applicants, is now closed. However, if you currently hold permission as a Sole Representative of an Overseas Business, you can still apply for extensions or indefinite leave to remain. Alternatively, if you’re a senior manager or specialist employee seeking to establish an overseas business branch in the UK for the first time, you might qualify for the Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa. For those interested in initiating a new business or owning an existing one in the UK, eligibility for a Skilled Worker visa via self-sponsorship is an option, wherein you’re sponsored by your UK company.
Although closed to new applicants, the Sole Representative route remains accessible for dependent partners and children of Sole Representatives.
The UK Representative of an Overseas Business visa is designed for enterprises aiming to deploy a senior employee to the UK to establish a commercial foothold for the company within the country.
Although this visa category is no longer open to new applicants, those already holding it can still benefit from its provisions. For newcomers seeking similar opportunities, alternative visa routes such as the Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa or the Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship present viable options.
To qualify for a UK Sole Representative of an Overseas Business visa, you must meet specific criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration. These criteria include:
For Your Overseas Company:
For You, the Applicant:
The specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. It is advisable to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer for tailored advice.
To discuss your UK Representative of an Overseas Business visa application with our experienced immigration solicitors a Temple Gate Solicitors, contact us at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form below.
To qualify for a UK Overseas Business Representative visa, your parent company must be an active and trading entity outside the UK, maintaining its headquarters and primary operations abroad. If your parent company already has a presence in the UK through a branch, subsidiary, or representative, it will be ineligible. Additionally, if establishing a branch or subsidiary in the UK would effectively relocate the center of your business operations, it may also disqualify your application. The Home Office requires assurance that your UK entity will engage in active trading similar to the overseas business and is not merely established to facilitate your stay.
The applicant must genuinely be an existing senior employee recruited outside the UK, possessing the requisite skills, experience, and knowledge to represent the overseas business in the UK. They must have full authority to negotiate and make operational decisions on behalf of the company and intend to work full-time as its representative. Moreover, they must commit to abstaining from personal business activities or representing other entities in the UK.
Applicants can hold shares in the overseas business but must not exceed a 50% ownership stake. Existing majority shareholders can qualify by reducing their shareholding before applying. However, the Home Office considers both current and previous year’s share distribution. Additionally, beyond ownership, control over the business by any means must not be exerted, regardless of the ownership stake.
For further clarification on ownership and control requirements for the Representative of an Overseas Business visa, consult our immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors in London.
Explore Success Stories of UK Sole Representative Visa Holders.
As a Sole Representative, you must possess the authority to establish and manage a UK branch or subsidiary, making key operational decisions locally on behalf of the company. Full-time employment is mandatory, although there’s no specific salary threshold or required benefits. However, your remuneration should be commensurate with that of a senior employee in the company.
The parent company must intend to maintain its primary center of business operations abroad to meet the UK’s Representative of an Overseas Business visa requirements. The Home Office will reject applications if it’s evident that the intention is to shift the main business operations to the UK, effectively ceasing operations outside the UK. This intention may be inferred from various factors, such as the visa applicant’s significant shareholding, their pivotal role in the company, limited presence of senior employees abroad, or the company’s reliance on the applicant’s specific talents and performance.
Representatives must adhere to specific conditions during their stay in the UK. Notably, they can only be employed by the sponsoring company and are prohibited from engaging in other business interests, part-time work, or consulting activities in the UK.
Sole Representatives can bring their spouse, civil partner, unmarried or same-sex partner, and children under 18 to the UK. However, they cannot sponsor their parents, siblings, or other extended family members. If the accompanying partner also has ties to the overseas business, they must not hold a majority stake or exert control over it, irrespective of the ownership arrangement.
For more information on the Sole Representative Visa and its implications, consult our immigration lawyers.
It’s advisable to submit your application for a UK Sole Representative visa no more than 3 months before your intended travel date.
The current Home Office application fee for a UK Representative of an Overseas Business visa is £610.
Typically, most Sole Representative visa applications are processed within 3 weeks. Some visa application centers outside the UK offer a priority service, allowing applicants to receive a decision within 5 working days.
If your initial application for a UK Representative of an Overseas Business visa is approved, you’ll be granted permission to enter and stay in the UK for up to 3 years. To extend your stay beyond this period, you must still be employed by the same employer and have successfully established the parent company’s presence in the UK. It’s essential to demonstrate business generation, primarily with UK firms, and receipt of salary from your employer. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can ensure a professionally presented and technically correct extension application.
After spending five years in the UK as a Sole Representative of an Overseas Business, you may be eligible to apply for settlement. In addition to meeting extension requirements, you must demonstrate continuous residency in the UK, English language proficiency at level B1 or higher, and knowledge of life in the UK. Your employer’s confirmation of continued employment and appropriate salary is also necessary.
Introduced on October 6, 2021, additional requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Sole Representative of an Overseas Business include proving the overseas business’s activity, full-time employment, absence of work for other businesses, no majority ownership, and establishment and supervision of a UK branch or subsidiary actively trading in the same business type. Documentation supporting your ILR application is essential, and seeking advice from an immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors is recommended.
While you can apply for a UK Sole Representative visa from outside the UK, it’s also feasible to switch into this route from within the UK. However, this is contingent upon not having, or not having been last granted, permission to stay under specific categories such as Visitor, Short-term Student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Worker, or Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or outside the Immigration Rules.
The Immigration Rules mandate strict requirements regarding the documents necessary to support a Sole Representative of an Overseas Business visa application. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can ensure your application is professionally presented and technically correct.
Our team of business immigration solicitors specializes in assisting companies and partnerships of all sizes in securing Sole Representative visas for their employees. Whether you’re a small business or a multinational enterprise aiming to expand into the UK, our barristers possess expertise in navigating the complexities of Home Office rules and policies.
We prioritize being approachable and proactive in understanding and fulfilling our clients’ needs. Committed to delivering clear and reliable immigration advice, we offer a professional and friendly service aimed at achieving successful outcomes for our clients.
As of April 13, 2023, the UK Start-Up Visa route will only accept applications from individuals holding a valid Start-Up endorsement issued before April 13, 2023. By July 13, 2023, the UK Start-Up Visa route will cease to accept new applications. However, aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in the UK may consider applying for an Innovator Founder Visa. Additionally, individuals interested in setting up or already owning a business in the UK may be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship, facilitated by their UK company.
The UK Start-Up Visa provides an opportunity for new entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to establish themselves in the UK market, fostering entrepreneurial growth and innovation in the country’s business landscape.
The UK Start-Up visa category is tailored for early-stage entrepreneurs with high potential who aim to establish their first business venture in the UK.
Suitability Criteria:
To qualify for a UK Start-Up visa, applicants must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration regarding the following:
Specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. Consulting with an immigration lawyer for tailored advice is recommended.
To discuss your UK Start-Up visa application with our business immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors, reach out to our Start-Up visa lawyers at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form.
UK Start-Up visa applicants are not mandated to have funds to invest in their business initially. However, the criteria for having a ‘viable’ and ‘scalable’ business idea may necessitate having funds available for investment. Some endorsing bodies might stipulate a certain level of funding as a condition for endorsement.
For endorsement of your business proposal, an approved endorsing body must be satisfied that your business idea fulfills the following criteria:
Moreover, the endorsing body should ascertain that you will dedicate the majority of your working time in the UK to developing business ventures.
The Home Office maintains a published list of endorsing bodies for Start-Up visa applications. This list includes all currently approved endorsing bodies, along with links to their websites and details of their application process and endorsement criteria whenever available.
Our immigration solicitors specialize in assisting entrepreneurs worldwide to prepare successful UK Start-Up visa applications. We can also aid applicants in securing UK Start-Up visa endorsement. Temple Gate Solicitors serves as a trusted introducer to several endorsing bodies, facilitating eligible clients with direct contact with investment panel members and ensuring transparent and prompt decision-making.
For further details on the UK Start-Up visa process and assistance with endorsement, please refer to our resources or contact us for personalized guidance.
[Link to resources: A Guide to the UK Start-Up Visa, Requirements for the new Innovator & Start-Up Visas, How to switch from a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur to a Start-up Visa]
While applications for Start-Up visas can be made from outside the UK, it’s also feasible to switch into this category from within the UK. However, individuals must not have, or were not last granted, permission under specific categories such as Visitor, Short-term Student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Worker, Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or outside the Immigration Rules.
The UK Start-Up visa category is exclusively for individuals seeking to establish a new business in the UK for the first time. It’s not suitable for those looking to join an existing business.
Applicants do not need to be the sole founder of their business and can be part of a Start-Up team, sharing the same business idea and plan with other team members. However, each applicant must receive their individual endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
Upon approval of the endorsement by a UK Start-Up visa endorsing body, applicants receive a UK Start-Up visa endorsement letter. This letter is a mandatory part of the Start-Up visa application and must comply with the strict requirements outlined in the Immigration Rules.
The initial UK Start-Up visa is valid for 2 years. However, if an applicant was previously granted leave as a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur, the leave period granted will extend to the maximum 2-year limit.
It’s not possible to extend a UK Start-Up visa, and visa holders are ineligible for settlement. However, after the 2-year period, applicants can apply for further leave to remain in the Innovator category to continue business development. Innovator category participation can lead to settlement after an additional 3 years.
Conditions of Stay as a Start-Up/Innovator
Start-Up visa holders can bring their partner and any children under 18 as dependents.
Temple Gate Solicitors stands as a distinguished leader in the UK’s immigration landscape, particularly in assisting Start-Up businesses. Our immigration solicitors efforts in aiding startups have garnered recognition through membership in esteemed organizations such as the Investment Migration Council and the Department of International Trade’s Investor Support Network.
Whether you’re embarking on your entrepreneurial journey or seeking to establish your startup in the UK market, our immigration solicitors are here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to discuss your Start-Up visa application and explore how we can assist you in realizing your business goals.
Important Notice: New applications for the Turkish Businessperson visa are now closed. However, children under 21 (‘child dependants’) can still apply to join you in the UK on this visa. If you already have permission to stay in the UK as a Turkish Businessperson, you can apply to extend your visa. Please note that this page will be updated shortly with further information.
The ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa is designed for Turkish nationals aged 18 and above who wish to either initiate a new business venture in the UK or contribute to the management of an established business.
To qualify for this visa under the Turkish EC Association Agreement (‘ECAA’ or ‘Ankara Agreement’), you must demonstrate to UK Visas and Immigration that you are a Turkish national and:
If you intend to join an existing partnership or company, additional requirements include:
The specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. For tailored advice and guidance, consider consulting an immigration lawyer who specializes in ECAA Ankara Agreement visa applications. Our experienced immigration solicitors are available to assist you. Contact our ECAA Ankara Agreement visa lawyers on +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete our enquiry form for further assistance.
ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa holders are permitted to establish businesses as either sole traders, directors of limited companies, or legal partnerships. While employment is not allowed under this visa, directors of limited companies can still engage in work within their company, falling under the scope of a ‘Business’ application.
Additionally, ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businesspersons can join existing partnerships or companies, provided they actively participate in business operations and their services and investment are deemed necessary. This flexibility surpasses that of the Innovator and Start-up visa categories, as these do not permit investment into existing businesses.
Furthermore, there are no strict restrictions on the type of business permitted for ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businesspersons. Unlike the Tier 1 Entrepreneur, Investor, and Innovator categories, there are no prohibitions on property-related businesses, offering greater flexibility.
Unlike the Tier 1 Entrepreneur (£50,000 or £200,000), Investor (£2m, £5m, or £10m), or Innovator (£50,000) categories, there is no set investment amount required for a successful ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa application.
Instead, applicants must demonstrate that they will bring ‘sufficient funds’ to establish their business. This requirement introduces a degree of subjectivity, emphasizing the importance of meticulously planning the business and outlining its objectives for the initial 12 months and beyond.
Yes, family members can accompany ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa holders to the UK as dependants. This includes their partner and/or children under the age of 21. A partner may be a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or same-sex partner. However, it’s essential to demonstrate the ability to support the family financially without seeking additional employment, as working outside the business is prohibited.
Initially, an ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa is typically granted for 12 months. Upon renewal, extensions are typically granted for an additional three years, provided the business remains operational and continues to operate within the UK. If evidence of ongoing business operations and sufficient profits to support oneself is lacking, a 12-month leave may be granted instead. Subsequent grants of three years may follow, contingent upon continued business involvement.
ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businesspersons are eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. To qualify, the applicant must:
Navigating the Settlement Process under the Ankara Agreement requires careful adherence to Immigration Rules, and seeking guidance from an immigration solicitor at Temple Gate Solicitors is advised.
An ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa holder can apply for British citizenship after obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Typically, this entails residing in the UK for five continuous years under the Turkish ECAA business person or Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) categories, or a combination thereof. Following the acquisition of ILR, there’s a mandatory one-year waiting period before applying for British citizenship, unless married to a British citizen. In such cases, citizenship can be pursued immediately after obtaining ILR.
The ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa route was established under the UK’s EU membership, meaning its validity will be affected post-Brexit. While new applications were accepted until the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020, the route is now closed. However, extensions of leave are granted under similar conditions as before Brexit, with Appendix ECAA Settlement providing a pathway to settlement after five years. The route will remain open until all Turkish businesspersons and their families in the UK obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Assistance from Temple Gate Solicitors
Navigating the complexities of the ECAA Ankara Agreement Turkish Businessperson visa process requires expert guidance. Our immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors specialize in assisting Turkish Businesspersons with entry clearance, leave to remain, and settlement in the UK. From ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements to providing comprehensive advice and application support, our team is committed to delivering professional and friendly immigration services tailored to meet clients’ needs.
The UK Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa facilitates temporary work assignments in the UK for senior managers and specialist employees who are part of an intra-company transfer arrangement.
Key Points:
Consultation with Immigration Solicitors: For personalized guidance and support with the UK Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa application process, individuals can seek assistance from immigration solicitors at Temple Gate Solicitors. They can provide expert advice tailored to the specific circumstances of each applicant.
To secure a UK Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa, it’s crucial to demonstrate to the Home Office that the sponsored job is genuine. Any suspicion of the job’s non-existence, being a sham, or created solely for visa purposes could lead to application refusal.
The UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa is designed for overseas workers seeking a temporary work placement in the UK as part of a graduate training course leading to a senior managerial or specialist role. This type of visa, also known as an intra-company transfer graduate trainee, allows individuals to be transferred to the UK by their employer.
To qualify for a UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Our business immigration solicitors provide expert guidance and support for UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa applications. With a deep understanding of immigration laws and requirements, we ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Contact our business immigration team to discuss your Graduate Trainee Visa application and receive professional assistance tailored to your needs.
To qualify for a UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, applicants must meet specific overseas work requirements:
To obtain a UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, applicants need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the intended job. Key requirements for the CoS include:
For expert assistance with your Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa application, contact our business immigration team. We provide tailored support to ensure a successful visa application process.
To secure a UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, applicants must demonstrate that they are being sponsored for a genuine job role. The Home Office scrutinizes whether the job:
The job sponsored for the UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa must meet specific skill level criteria:
Applicants must participate in a structured graduate training programme:
Employers transferring employees under the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa must adhere to salary guidelines:
Adhering to these requirements is crucial for a successful application for the UK Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa. For tailored assistance and guidance, applicants can consult our business immigration team.
For the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, the minimum salary requirement is £24,220 per year. Applicants must meet this threshold or receive 70% of the pro-rated going rate for their occupation, whichever is higher.
The Home Office provides a list of going rates for eligible occupations, based on a 37.5-hour working week. These rates must be pro-rated for different working patterns, including those exceeding 48 hours per week.
Employers sponsoring Graduate Trainees are exempt from paying the Immigration Skills Charge.
Applicants must demonstrate access to funds of at least £1,270, held for a consecutive 28-day period ending no more than 31 days before the visa application date.
Applicants for the Graduate Trainee Visa are not required to meet an English language requirement.
Applicants with leave to remain in another immigration category can extend their stay by switching to the Graduate Trainee route, except for certain categories like Visitors or Short-term students.
Successful applicants are granted entry clearance for either 1 year from the job start date specified in the Certificate of Sponsorship or the duration indicated on the Certificate plus 14 days, whichever is shorter. Extension of the visa is not possible, but applicants can apply for another Graduate Trainee visa from outside the UK.
Graduate Trainee Visa holders can stay in the UK for a maximum of 5 years within any 6-year period. The Home Office considers previous periods of permission granted under Global Business Mobility and Intra-Company routes when calculating the time spent.
Visa holders can work for their sponsor as detailed in their Certificate of Sponsorship, undertake studies, and voluntary work. Access to public funds is not permitted.
The Graduate Trainee Visa does not directly lead to settlement. However, visa holders may switch to other immigration routes like the Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder routes, subject to meeting their respective requirements. Eligibility for settlement based on Long Residence may also apply.
Graduate Trainee Visa holders can bring their dependent partner over 18 and dependent children under 18 to the UK.
Businesses of any size can apply for a Global Business Mobility sponsor license if they have operations outside the UK and a connection to a UK business. To qualify, the UK business must:
Qualifying links involve common ownership or control, or a joint venture agreement between the UK business and the overseas one. For Graduate Trainee sponsors, the overseas business must offer a structured graduate training program with a legitimate work placement in the UK.
Our team specializes in assisting overseas workers undertaking graduate work placements in the UK. We provide guidance to both employers and skilled workers across various industries and company sizes. Our services include strategic planning to meet start dates and immigration objectives, assistance with obtaining sponsor license, maintaining high ratings, and ensuring compliance with sponsor duties.
We prioritize being accessible and proactive in understanding and addressing our clients’ needs, offering clear and dependable immigration advice in a professional and friendly manner.
The UK Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa is designed for senior managers and specialist employees who are temporarily assigned to the UK to work on the expansion of an overseas business. This visa allows a maximum of 5 workers per sponsor.
The requirements may vary depending on your circumstances, so consulting an immigration solicitor at Temple Gate Solicitors for tailored advice is advisable.
The UK Expansion Worker Visa does not lead directly to settlement in the UK. However, you may switch to another immigration route that does. Dependants, including partners and children, may accompany applicants.
Our experienced business immigration solicitors provide guidance on UK Expansion Worker Visa applications, offering expert advice tailored to your situation. Contact our business immigration team for assistance.
If you are applying for a Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa and your gross annual salary is less than £73,900, and you are not a Japanese national or an Australian national seeking to establish a UK branch or subsidiary under specific agreements, then you must meet certain overseas work requirements.
However, if you earn £73,900 per year or more, or you are a Japanese or Australian national under specific circumstances, you do not need to fulfill the specific work period requirement.
To obtain a UK Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa, you need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the job you plan to undertake. The CoS must be issued by an employer authorized by the Home Office to sponsor a UK Expansion Worker.
Ensure that the CoS has not been used in any previous applications and has not been withdrawn by the sponsor or cancelled by the Home Office.
Genuine Job Requirement: To obtain a UK Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa, you must demonstrate to the Home Office that the job you are sponsored for is genuine. The Home Office will assess if there are reasonable grounds to believe that the job doesn’t exist, is a sham, or has been created solely for visa purposes. Additionally, they’ll ensure you’re not filling a position with a third party or undertaking contract work for another entity not your sponsor.
UK Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Job Skill Level Requirement: The job you’re sponsored for must meet the minimum skill level requirement of at least RQF Level 6 (graduate equivalent). Even without a degree, the role should be equivalent to a graduate-level position. The Home Office provides a list of eligible jobs for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, and your sponsor must select the appropriate occupation code. Failure to do so may result in refusal.
Immigration Skills Charge Requirement: Employers sponsoring UK Expansion Workers are exempt from paying the Immigration Skills Charge.
Ensure your application meets these requirements to increase the likelihood of approval.
Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Visa Financial Requirement: Unless exempt, you must have at least £1,270 in cash funds, held for 28 consecutive days ending not more than 31 days before your application date. However, if you’ve been in the UK with permission for 12 months or more at the application date, you won’t need to show funds.
UK Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa English Language Requirement: There’s no English language requirement for UK Expansion Worker Visa applicants.
Switching into the UK Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Route: You can extend your stay by switching into the UK Expansion Worker route from another immigration category, except if you have permission as a Visitor, Short-term student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Worker, Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or outside the Immigration Rules.
Duration of a UK Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Visa: If approved, you’ll get entry clearance for 1 year after your job’s start date or the time specified in your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter. You can apply to extend for another 12 months, allowing a maximum stay of 2 years on a UK Expansion Worker Visa.
Maximum Time in the UK Global Business Mobility Routes: You can’t exceed a total of 5 years in any 6-year period across Global Business Mobility routes or former Intra-company routes.
Conditions of Stay on a UK Global Business Mobility: UK Expansion Worker Visa: Visa holders can work for their sponsor as described on their Certificate of Sponsorship, undertake study, and voluntary work. Access to public funds is not allowed.
Settlement on the UK Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Route: The UK Expansion Worker Visa doesn’t directly lead to settlement. However, you may switch into other routes leading to settlement, such as the Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder routes, provided you meet their requirements. Alternatively, you can extend your stay until you’re eligible for settlement based on Long Residence.
Dependents of UK Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker Visa Applicants: UK Expansion Worker Visa holders can bring along a dependent partner over 18 and dependent children under 18.
UK Global Business Mobility Sponsor License Application: To sponsor workers under the Global Business Mobility routes, the UK business must:
Our temple gate solicitors specialize in assisting companies of all sizes to secure UK Expansion Worker visas. Whether you’re a small business or a multinational, we provide expert guidance through the complex Home Office rules, helping obtain sponsor license, maintain high ratings, and ensure compliance with sponsor duties. We offer clear and reliable immigration advice tailored to meet your business needs, delivered professionally and with a friendly approach.
The UK Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker Visa is designed for overseas workers temporarily seconded to the UK by their overseas employer as part of a high-value contract or investment.
To qualify for this visa, you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:
The specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. It’s advisable to seek advice from an immigration at Temple Gate Solicitors for expert guidance tailored to your situation.
The UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa is designed for overseas workers who are either contractual service suppliers employed by an overseas service provider or self-employed independent professionals based overseas. These individuals need to undertake temporary assignments in the UK to provide services covered by one of the UK’s international trade commitments.
To qualify for a UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa, you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:
The exact requirements may vary depending on your circumstances. Consulting an immigration solicitor at Temple Gate Solicitors for expert advice is advisable.
To discuss your UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa application, you can contact the business immigration team at +44 (0) 207 183 8043or complete the enquiry form provided.
To qualify for a UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa, you must currently be working as or for an overseas service provider that will provide services to your UK sponsor. Additionally, you must have worked as or for the overseas service provider outside the UK for a cumulative period of 12 months. This period can have been accumulated over any period provided that you were either continuously working for your overseas service provider, whether in or out of the UK, for at least 12 months before the date of application; or if you are a self-employed overseas service provider, continuously working in the same sector as the service you will provide to your sponsor, whether in or out of the UK, in the 12 months immediately before the date of application. Any breaks in the 12-month period must have been for specific reasons such as statutory leave, sick leave, humanitarian or environmental crisis assistance, or lawful industrial action.
Your UK sponsor must have a contract with an overseas service provider, and this contract must be registered with the Home Office. You, as a Service Supplier, will work on this contract.
To obtain a UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa, you need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job you are planning to do. The CoS must be issued by an employer authorized by the Home Office to sponsor a Service Supplier. Your sponsor must be listed as A-rated on the Home Office’s register of licensed sponsors, unless you were last granted permission as a Service Supplier and are applying to continue working for the same sponsor. The CoS must be issued within 3 months before the date of your visa application and must include certain mandatory information, such as details of your name, job, salary, confirmation of your overseas work experience, and start date, among others.
To discuss your UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa application, you can contact the business immigration team at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
To be granted a UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa, you must demonstrate to the Home Office that you are being sponsored for a genuine job. This means that the job must not be fictitious, a sham, or created solely for visa purposes. The Home Office will assess whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that the job does not exist or if it’s a temporary or permanent position with a third party other than the sponsor.
There are two options to meet the job skill level requirement:
Option A: The job must be skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (graduate equivalent). You don’t necessarily need a degree, but the role must be equivalent to a graduate level position. The Home Office provides a list of eligible jobs for the Global Business Mobility routes. Your sponsor must choose an appropriate occupation code, and the Home Office will assess whether the chosen code is suitable based on factors such as the genuine need for the job, your skills, qualifications, experience, and the sponsor’s compliance history.
Option B: You must have a university degree or equivalent technical qualification unless you are employed by an overseas service provider supplying specific types of services, in which case different qualification requirements apply. Additionally, you must hold any professional qualifications or registrations required to provide the services under UK law or sectoral requirements. You also need professional experience in the sector in which you will supply services, ranging from 3 to 6 years depending on the type of services provided.
To discuss your UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa application, you can contact the business immigration team at +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or complete the enquiry form provided.
Employers sponsoring a Service Supplier under the UK Global Business Mobility Visa do not need to meet a general salary requirement or adhere to the ‘going rate’ for the occupation.
To qualify for a UK Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa, you must meet one of the following criteria:
Employers sponsoring a Service Supplier are not required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge.
You need to have at least £1,270 available, held for 28 consecutive days ending not more than 31 days before your visa application date. However, you may be exempt from this requirement if your sponsor is willing to cover your maintenance costs up to the end of the first month of your employment. If you’ve been in the UK with permission for 12 months or more at the date of application, you’ll meet the financial requirement without needing to show funds.
Service Supplier Visa applicants are not required to satisfy an English language requirement.
If you currently have leave to remain in the UK under another immigration category, you can extend your stay by switching into the Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier route, except if your last permission was granted as a Visitor, Short-term student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Worker, Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or outside the Immigration Rules.
If your application for a Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Visa is approved, you’ll be granted entry clearance for either the time specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days or the maximum single assignment period (either 6 months or 12 months if covered by a relevant UK international trade commitment), whichever is shorter.
The maximum period allowed in the Global Business Mobility Routes is 5 years within any 6-year period. The Home Office considers all previous periods of permission granted on the Global Business Mobility routes and the Intra-company routes when calculating the duration spent on these routes.
Service Supplier Visa holders are permitted to work for their sponsor as specified on their Certificate of Sponsorship. They may also undertake study and voluntary work but are not allowed access to public funds.
The UK Global Business Mobility Visa: Service Supplier Visa does not directly lead to settlement. However, you may be able to switch into another immigration route that leads to settlement, such as the Skilled Worker route or the Start-up route combined with the Innovator route. You’ll need to meet the requirements of the immigration route you wish to extend into.
Service Supplier Visa holders can be accompanied by a dependent partner over 18 years old and dependent children under 18 years old.
The Global Business Mobility routes are accessible to businesses of all sizes, provided they have a trading presence outside the UK and a qualifying link to a UK business.
To obtain a Global Business Mobility sponsor license, the UK business receiving the worker must fulfill the following criteria:
Qualifying links to UK businesses are specific to the type of work assignment being undertaken in the UK. For a Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier Worker sponsor, the UK business must have an eligible contract with an overseas service provider for the supply of a service covered by a relevant UK trade commitment.
Our team of business immigration solicitors specializes in assisting overseas workers who are contractual service suppliers employed by an overseas service provider or self-employed independent professionals based overseas. We facilitate the UK visa and immigration process for overseas service suppliers, ensuring they can undertake temporary assignments in the UK to provide services covered by UK international trade commitments. Additionally, we help UK employers obtain the appropriate sponsor license, maintain it at the highest rating, and comply with sponsor duties.
We prioritize being approachable and proactive in understanding and meeting our clients’ needs. Our highly driven team is committed to delivering clear and reliable immigration advice to both employers and employees, ensuring a professional and friendly service.
To get assistance with your immigration matter from a specialist lawyer at Temple Gate Solicitors, contact us now on +44 (0) 207 183 8043 or email us on info@templegatesolicitors.com
At 9am on 1 December 2020 ‘Appendix English Language’ will take effect. Any application made before this date will be subject to the old rules. Unlike the first Appendix English Language, which applied only to the Appendix Student route, new Appendix applications will apply to the following routes:
The existing rules will still apply to applications under any other route. Therefore, if you are not applying in one of the above categories, or are applying before 1 December 2020, you can disregard the new Appendix English Language. For everyone else, here is a brief overview of the new rules.
Exemptions
Applicants making a settlement application – but not entry clearance or leave to remain – are exempt from the English requirement if at the date of application they are aged 65 or over, under 18, or if they have a physical or mental disability preventing them from meeting this requirement. It is assumed that anyone relying on the latter provision will be expected to provide strong medical evidence.
Majority English Country
If an applicant is a national of a designated English-language country they are considered to have met the English language requirement. Malta has recently been added to the list, the addition of which applies across all categories in the Immigration Rules.
The list is as follows:
Academic Qualification
Applicants are considered to have met the English Language requirement by having a degree from:
English Language Test
English language tests can only be taken with one of the following providers:
GCSE or A Level English
Previously, you may have achieved an A* in English at A level but were still expected to take an approved English Language Test.
As long as they were under 18 and at school at the time, and the qualification was awarded by an Ofqual, SQA, Qualification Wales or CCEA awarding body, from December applicants applying under Appendix Student, Appendix Skilled Worker, Appendix Start-up and Appendix Innovator can meet the requirement if they have one of the following qualifications in English (language or literature):
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