Within the current UK immigration landscape, a number of options exist for entrepreneurs and investors looking to start or join projects here. This is in spite of the closure of the dedicated Tier 1 (Investor) visa last year.
If you have a unique business concept that you wish to bring to the UK market as a founder or co-founder, you might consider an Innovator Founder visa. The pre-visa process requires you to pitch your business plan to a Home Office authorised endorsing body to obtain their backing. Endorsement can be obtained across all business types, although we have seen a strong trend towards digital-tech.
Alternatively, if you are already involved in the management of a successful international business and are nominated to explore the UK market on behalf of that organisation, you might consider an Expansion Worker visa. Under this route, the overseas business must have been trading for at least 3 years, with you on the payroll for at least 12 months (unless you are considered to be a ‘high earner’).
Separately, if you are a professional with partners already operating businesses in the UK, one of those organisations may apply for a licence to sponsor you under a Skilled Worker visa. You must have the right skill set to perform the UK role that you have been offered.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
©Gherson 2023
