In recent days, the demand for business relocation has increased significantly. It is possible to move a company to the United Kingdom or launch a new business in the country not only with the help of a Global business visa. There are other visa categories.

Start-up Visa

It is for aspiring entrepreneurs starting a business in the UK for the first time.

  • It is issued for 2 years.
  • Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) can only be obtained by switching to another visa — work visa, Innovator visa or Global Talent visa.
  • There should be at least £1,270 in the bank account for 28 days prior to submitting the application.
  • Confirm your knowledge of English at least B2 level.
business persons
Image by Unsplash+

Sole Representative Visa

It allows the applicant to move to the UK in order to register a branch in the UK or another country. Holders are only allowed to engage in declared business.

  • It is issued for 3 years.
  • The application review period is up to 3 weeks if the application was submitted outside the UK.
  • It can be extended for another 2 years.
  • The minimum level of English proficiency is A1.
  • The company sending its representative must exist for at least 12 months before applying for a visa and have a good reason to expand to the UK. It is also necessary to prove that the company operates without losses and provide a business plan for opening a branch.
  • A candidate for a visa must hold a senior position in the parent company, but cannot be the holder of the main block of shares.

Innovator Visa

For skilled entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in the UK.

  • It is issued for 3 years.
  • It can be extended for another 3 years.
  • There should be at least £1,270 in it within 28 days prior to submitting the application.
  • The level of English proficiency is B2.
  • Provide a business plan reflecting the innovativeness, prospects and scalability of the project, and get approval from an accredited organization.
  • It is necessary to have funds to finance the project — at least £50,000.
three passports
Photo by Ethan Wilkinson on Unsplash

The British government offers various ways for business relocation for candidates with different qualifications, experience and professional goals, so that every entrepreneur can find a suitable visa category.