From the 13th of April 2023, the UK Start-up Visa route will only cater to those with a valid Start-up endorsement received before 13 April 2023. As of 13 July 2023, new applications for the UK Start-up Visa will no longer be accepted. Budding entrepreneurs looking to begin a business in the UK, who haven’t secured an endorsement, might consider the Innovator Founder Visa. Moreover, if you’re keen on starting a new business or have an existing UK-based business, the Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship might be a viable alternative.
Understanding the UK Start-Up Visa
The UK Start-up Visa is tailored for budding entrepreneurs aiming to set foot in the UK business sector. Interestingly, being a graduate or having initial funding isn’t a prerequisite. What’s vital is having an innovative, feasible, and scalable business concept with the endorsement of a qualified body.
While Start-up visas have a 2-year validity, they don’t offer a direct path to UK settlement. Yet, holders can extend their stay through the Innovator visa category, paving the way for ILR after another three years. Plus, UK Start-up visa beneficiaries can bring their partner and children under 18 to the UK.
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Is the UK Start-up Visa for You?
Designed for nascent entrepreneurs with high potential, the UK Start-up visa is perfect for those initiating a business venture in the UK. If you’ve already made business inroads in the UK but haven’t started trading, this might be the visa for you, with exceptions being certain prior visa categories or the Tier 4 doctorate extension scheme. Seasoned business individuals might find the Innovator visa more fitting. Additionally, the Skilled Worker and Tier 1 Investor visas, or the Sole Representative of an Overseas Business visa, might be more apt, depending on your business aspirations.
UK Start-Up Visa Essentials
To qualify for a UK Start-up visa, you must convince the UK Visas and Immigration authorities that:
- You’re 18 or above.
- You haven’t previously launched a business in the UK, except if you’ve had a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa.
- You’ve been endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body that finds your business idea innovative, feasible, and scalable.
- Your endorsement letter should be dated within 3 months before your Start-up visa application.
- Your business activities in the UK align with your application.
- You’ve proficiency in English, at least CEFR Level B2.
- Financial stability, with funds to support yourself and dependents.
Keep in mind that specific requirements might differ based on individual circumstances. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration solicitor for professional insights.
Get in touch with Highwood Solicitors: For guidance on your UK Start-up visa application, reach our expert solicitors at +44 (0) 1206523714 or fill in our contact form.
Investment Funds and UK Start-up Visa
There’s no investment prerequisite for the UK Start-up visa, but having a ‘viable’ business idea might imply needing available funds. Some endorsing bodies do have a minimum funding requirement.
Endorsement Guidelines for the UK Start-up Visa
For your business plan to get endorsed, it should tick these boxes:
- Innovation: Original business ideas addressing market needs or providing a competitive edge.
- Viability: The skills and knowledge to successfully helm the business.
- Scalability: Potential for growth and job creation.
The endorsing body will also verify that your primary working time will be dedicated to UK business ventures.
How Highwood Solicitors Can Aid Your Start-Up Vision
Highwood Solicitors stands out as one of the UK’s eminent immigration services for Start-up ventures. Our solicitors offer in-depth expertise to guide start-ups. After securing an endorsement, our solicitors will navigate the intricate Home Office procedures to ensure your Start-up visa application’s success.
Our commitment is to offer dependable and transparent immigration advice with a personal touch, keeping client needs at the forefront.