The Start-up visa is intended for early-stage but high potential entrepreneurs who are seeking to establish a business in the UK for the first time. For the successful grant of a start-up visa, applicants must be able to prove that if thier business model can contribue to cultural, social, scientific and technological development and economic growth of the UK.
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Visa Requirements
- For a successful initial visa application, you must meet the following requirements:
First, you do not need to make any investment but you must be a new entrepreneur who has never done business in the UK.
Second, you must have a competitive business idea based on a viable, innovative business model, receive a feasibility review and an endorsement letter from a body endorsed by the UK Visas and Immigration.
Even if you do not target international markets, your business plan should be able to contribute to the development of specific areas, such as economic, social, cultural or science sectors in the UK.
Third, you must demonstrate your English proficiency through an approved English language test with at least CEFR level B2 (intermediate).
Fourth, you should be able to prove that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and your family without relying on the UK government's subsidy while doing business.
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Conditions of Stay
- You can bring your family members with you and apply visas for your spouse and children under 18 years of age.
The accompanying family members may apply for their visa together with the main visa applicant or separately at a later date.
Children under 18 years of age may enjoy the merit of being admitted to a public school when the visa is issued.
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Length of Stay
- Start-up visa holders are only allowed to stay for two years upon approval.
During this period, you can operate a business as assessed.
If you want to do another business, you can extend your visa for the remainder of the visa period by receiving an assessment for a new business plan within two years.
If you have demonstrated successful business outcomes and future sustainability after startup, you can switch to the Innovator visa in the UK.
For this, you need to prove that you have at least £50,000 in investment funds and apply after receiving an endorsement letter from an endorsing body.
