UK Start-Up Visa
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The UK start-up Visa is for entrepreneurs looking to launch an innovative business in the UK. Applicants must secure an endorsement from an approved body, showing their idea is viable and unique, and prove English proficiency. The visa lasts up to 2 years, which supports business development and allows dependants to join. However, it does not lead directly to settlement but can be a stepping stone to other visa options for permanent residency.
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Key Eligibility Requirements and Benefits of the UK Start-Up Visa
The start-up visa is a highly sought-after option for entrepreneurs looking to establish their business in the UK with its strict eligibility requirements, including:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- First Business in UK: This should be your first attempt to establish a UK-based business, with some exceptions for those who were previously on the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur route.
- Endorsement Requirement:You need to obtain an endorsement from an eligible UK endorsing body, which assesses your business idea based on its innovation, viability, and scalability.
- Business Intention: It's important to demonstrate that you plan to dedicate most of your time to your business in the UK if your application is approved.
- Business Idea: The business idea you propose must be innovative, viable, and scalable.
- English Proficiency: English language proficiency is required, typically up to B2 level on the CEFR scale.
- Funding Requirements: Even though there is no specific funding requirement, you must provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while living in the UK. Being a start-up visa holder, you can not receive public fundings.
While holding your UK start-up visa, you are also allowed to do another job other than working in your start-up business, but you can not work as a doctor or dentist in training or a professional sportsperson.
As benefits, you can bring your family members as dependants with you to the UK. Moreover, this visa allows one to apply for permanent UK immigration category after 2 years of being a successful entrepreneur.
Other Requirements and
Endorsement Process for the UK Start-Up Visa
Applying for UK start-up visa involves several essential criteria that you must fulfil prior to submitting your application.
Here’s what you should be knowing:
Endorsement Requirement
- Approval Needed: You must obtain approval from an eligible endorsing body for your business idea, which is a crucial aspect of your visa application.
- Criteria Set by Endorsers: The home office allows endorsing bodies to determine their own criteria for what qualifies as a genuine and original business idea that meets market needs.
Endorsement Process
- Issuance of Endorsement Letter: If your business idea is approved, the endorsing body will issue a letter that must be submitted with your visa application.
- Progress Reviews: The endorsing body will follow up with you at six, 12, and 24 months to review your progress towards your business goals.
Assessment Criteria For Your Business Idea
- Innovation, Viability, Scalability: Your business must demonstrate these qualities, aiming to contribute positively to the UK economy.
- New Business Idea: Your business idea should be novel and represent a business you have started or in which you are significantly as part of the founding team before trading begins.
- Sector Flexibility: Your business can operate in any sector, but you should possess the relevant knowledge, experience, and market awareness necessary for its development.
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- English Proficiency: Showing that you can read, write, speak, and understand English at a B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. You will need to provide evidence from an approved English language test to confirm this.
- Degree in English: Presenting a degree that was taught in English.
- Exempt Countries: Being a citizen of an exempted country, which includes; Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the USA.
- Prepare Your Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your innovative and scalable idea.
- Obtain Endorsement: Apply for endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form on the Home Office website, depending on whether you’re switching visas or applying from abroad.
- Prove Your Identity:
- Visa Application Centre: Get fingerprints and a photo for a biometric residence permit (£19.20 fee).
- UK Immigration: “ID Check App” Use this app to scan your ID. - Pay Application Fees:
- £363 if applying from outside the UK.
- £493 if applying from within the UK.
- EU applicants may have a £55 reduction. - Pay Immigration Healthcare Surcharge: Currently £1,035 per person per year.
- Processing Time: Usually, 3 weeks from outside the UK or 8 weeks if switching visas, though it may take longer if more evidence is required.
You can apply for the UK start-up visa up to three months before your intended travel date. If you opt for the priority service for entry clearance applications, you may receive a decision within 10 to 15 days.
For standard processing times, applications submitted from outside the UK typically take around three weeks. If you are applying from within the UK, the processing time is currently estimated to be approximately 8 to 12 weeks.
When applying for the start-up visa UK, you should anticipate the following fees based on your circumstances:
- Applying for yourself from outside the UK: £378
- Switching to this visa from within the UK: £508
- Your partner or child applying from outside the UK: £379 per person
- Your partner or child switching to this visa in the UK: £508 per person
Please note that there may be additional costs, including the immigration healthcare surcharge, biometric information fees, and expenses related to obtaining or translating documents for submission.
To apply for a UK Start-Up Visa as a team, each individual must submit a separate application and obtain their own endorsement from an approved endorsing body. However, the team can share the same business plan and idea.
Essentially, while you can apply as part of a founding team, each member needs their own individual endorsement to be eligible for the visa.
Key Points to Remember When Applying as a Team
- Individual Endorsements
Every team member must secure their own endorsement from a relevant UK institution. This endorsement should demonstrate the viability and innovation of the business idea.
- Joint Business Plan
Although each member applies individually, the business plan presented to the endorsing body should represent a unified vision shared by the entire team.
- Demonstrate Individual Roles and Responsibilities
Each team member should clearly outline their specific roles and responsibilities within the business plan. This will help highlight their unique value to the startup.
By keeping these key points in mind, your team can effectively navigate the application process for the UK Start-Up Visa.
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To apply for a UK Start-Up Visa as a team, each individual must submit a separate application and obtain their own endorsement from an approved endorsing body. However, the team can share the same business plan and idea.
Essentially, while you can apply as part of a founding team, each member needs their own individual endorsement to be eligible for the visa.
Key Points to Remember When Applying as a Team
- Individual Endorsements
Every team member must secure their own endorsement from a relevant UK institution. This endorsement should demonstrate the viability and innovation of the business idea.
- Joint Business Plan
Although each member applies individually, the business plan presented to the endorsing body should represent a unified vision shared by the entire team.
- Demonstrate Individual Roles and Responsibilities
Each team member should clearly outline their specific roles and responsibilities within the business plan. This will help highlight their unique value to the startup.
By keeping these key points in mind, your team can effectively navigate the application process for the UK Start-Up Visa.
How to Select an Endorsing Body?
Business endorsement is the approval from an eligible endorsing body that validates your business idea as innovative, viable, and scalable. This endorsement is required for your visa application to proceed.
Selecting the right endorsing body for your UK start-p visa application is crucial for success. You can begin by researching the types of eligible endorsing bodies, such as higher education institutes, business incubators, and established companies, all of which can provide varying levels of support.
You can also check the official home office list to ensure that the endorsing body is recognised and consider their specification to find one that aligns with your business sector.
For making the right choice, you may evaluate the support offered by endorsing body, including mentorship and funding opportunities, and review their specific endorsement criteria to ensure your business idea matches their focus.
Don’t hesitate to contact the endorsing body for clarification on their application process and expectations. Additionally, consider their location for potential networking benefits.
Important Considerations by Endorsement Body
When seeking endorsement for a UK Start-Up Visa, several critical factors are taken into account by endorsing bodies:
- Uniqueness
Your business should possess a unique aspect that distinguishes it from other local businesses. This could be an innovative product, service, or approach that addresses specific customer needs.
- Market Demand
The business must fill a gap in the UK market, demonstrating that there is a demand for your offering and that it addresses a particular problem faced by consumers.
- Value Addition
Your business plan should contribute something valuable to either the UK or international market, enhancing the overall economic landscape and potentially creating new opportunities.
- Strategic Vision
A clear strategic plan is essential, showcasing your vision for the business and its strong potential for growth. This should include short-term and long-term goals.
- Feasibility
The business plan must be achievable, with the applicant demonstrating the necessary knowledge, experience, and expertise to execute the plan successfully.
- Scalability
Your business should outline a plan for growth, including strategies for creating new jobs and expanding into national and international markets.
- Authenticity
Present yourself and your business idea authentically, showcasing your passion and commitment. This authenticity can resonate positively with endorsing bodies.
- Leadership Skills
Demonstrate your leadership qualities, strategic vision, and ability to execute the business plan effectively. Endorsing bodies seek applicants who can inspire and guide their teams.
- Endorsement Process
The endorsement process typically involves an initial assessment, followed by a detailed evaluation and an endorsement decision. If your visa application is successful, you will receive an endorsement letter, which must be included in your visa application.
Staying in Contact with the Endorsing Body
Maintaining effective communication with your endorsing body is crucial throughout your UK Start-Up Visa process.
Key Points:
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule meetings at six and 12 months to update the endorsing body on your business progress.
- Documentation Requirements: Be prepared to provide reports, financial statements, or other relevant documentation to demonstrate your business's development.
- Risks of Non-Compliance: Failing to maintain contact or show sufficient progress may lead to the withdrawal of endorsement, risking your visa status.
- Communication Channels: Use emails, phone calls, meetings, or other agreed methods to keep in touch.
Transitioning from a UK start-up Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is an important step for entrepreneurs looking to settle permanently in the UK. At the end of 2 years, start-up visa holders can apply for ILR to continue their business in the UK. Some potential routes for start-up visa holders are innovator visa, skilled worker visa, and spouse visa.
Key Points About Transitioning
- Indirect Pathway: The Start-Up Visa does not provide a direct route to ILR.
- Transition to Innovator Visa: Most Start-Up Visa holders must transition to an Innovator Visa to obtain ILR.
- Minimum Duration on Innovator Visa: A minimum of three years is required on the Innovator Visa to qualify for ILR.
Key Considerations for Transitioning
- Demonstrating Business Progress: You must show significant achievements and progress in your business, as detailed in your original business plan, to qualify for ILR on the Innovator Visa.
- Meeting Financial Criteria: Depending on the requirements of the Innovator Visa, you may need to fulfil specific investment thresholds.
- English Language Requirements: Passing an English language test will likely be necessary for your ILR application.
If your application for a start-up visa is refused, you may have the option to request an administrative review of the decision. However, it is generally not possible to appeal against the rejection of a start-up visa.
Here are the recommended steps to take if your application is rejected (please remember to consult a qualified solicitor for advice tailored to your individual situation):
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Before submitting your application, ensure that you adhere to all application instructions precisely. This will help maximise your chances of a successful outcome.
- Review the Rejection Letter: Upon receiving your rejection letter, carefully identify the next steps available to you, particularly the option for an administrative review.
- Request an Administrative Review: Submit your request for an administrative review as soon as possible. You have either 14 or 28 days to do so, depending on whether you applied from within or outside the UK.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee for an administrative review is £80. You will need to submit your request online and include this fee.
- Await the Decision: After submitting your request, wait for a decision to be issued regarding your administrative review.
Taking these steps can help you navigate the process following a visa rejection, but professional legal advice is crucial for your specific circumstances.
There is no way your UK start-up visa can be extended; however, you can apply for the innovator visa category by meeting strict eligibility requirements.
To qualify for the Innovator Visa, you must:
- English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate the required English language skills.
- Age Requirement: You need to meet the age requirement specified by the Home Office.
- Financial Maintenance: You must satisfy the financial maintenance requirement, ensuring you can support yourself during your stay.
- Investment Funds: You must show at least £50,000 to invest in your business, unless your business has already been established and meets specific criteria.
By meeting these requirements, you can successfully transform your UK start-up visa to innovator visa which allows you to continue your entrepreneur journey in the UK.
How West End Consultants Can Help?
West End Consultants is a UK-based OISC regulation immigration consultancy firm. For the last 15 years, we have been helping UK businesses and individuals with the best support. We clarify the Scale-up Visa requirements for both businesses and individuals, ensuring you meet all criteria.
Our experts handle all aspects of the application process, from documentation to communication with authorities. We assist companies with obtaining and maintaining sponsor licences, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
For visa applicants, we provide support with documentation, English language proof, and job offers. We help businesses and visa holders stay compliant with regulations, including guidance on job changes and extensions. In short, we can assist you with everything you’ll be required to qualify for your UK Scale-up visa.
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