Busienss immigration

Start-Up Visa

Effective 13 April 2023, eligibility for the Start-up Visa will be restricted to individuals who have already obtained a valid Start-up endorsement prior to this date. 

Following this, from 13 July 2023, the Start-up Visa program will no longer accept new applicants. 

Entrepreneurs aspiring to launch a new business in the UK who have not yet secured an endorsement may consider applying for the Innovator Founder Visa as an alternative.

Additionally, individuals interested in founding a new business or those who already own a business within the UK might be suitable for a Skilled Worker visa through self-sponsorship, which involves sponsorship by one’s own UK-based company.

Start-Up Visa

Start-Up Visa - Updates

Important Update for UK Start-up Visa Applicants: As of 13 April 2023, the UK Start-up Visa will be restricted to individuals with a valid endorsement obtained prior to this date. Prospective applicants should note that starting on 13 July 2023, Start-up Visa will no longer accept new applications.

Entrepreneurs aspiring to launch a business in the UK without an existing endorsement are encouraged to explore the Innovator Founder Visa as an alternative pathway.

Alternatively, if you are interested in initiating a new venture or owning a business in the UK, the Skilled Worker visa offers a unique opportunity for self-sponsorship. This route enables entrepreneurs to be sponsored by their own UK-based company, facilitating the establishment and growth of their business within the country.

For comprehensive guidance and support on navigating these visa changes, contact Legal Pathway Solicitors, your trusted partner in UK business immigration.

 

Alternatives

Innovator Founder Visa

This visa offers an alternative for start-up entrepreneurs who have not yet secured an endorsement. It is designed for those aiming to establish a business in the UK.


Skilled Worker Visa via Self-Sponsorship

If you are already running a UK-based business, consider the Skilled Worker visa. By self-sponsoring, you can leverage your existing company to secure your visa.

UK Start-Up Visa (Closed For New Applications)

The Start-up visa is designed for emerging entrepreneurs who are aiming to start their business endeavours in the UK for the first time. Applicants are not required to hold a degree or to have obtained initial funding. However, they must present a business proposal that is innovative, feasible, and capable of growth, which must be validated by an approved endorsing body.

Granted as a single instance, the Start-up visa has a two-year validity period and does not directly offer a pathway to permanent residence in the UK. Nonetheless, holders of the Start-up visa have the opportunity to transition to the Innovator visa category, potentially leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years. Additionally, Start-up visa holders are permitted to bring their spouse and any dependents under 18 years of age with them to the UK.

At Legal Pathway Solicitors, our team of highly experienced solicitors across all major cities of the UK specialises in UK Startup Visa applications. We have a proven track record of assisting our clients with expert advice and clear guidance critical for their success throughout the case.

We understand the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs seeking to relocate to the UK under the Startup Visa program. Our solicitors work closely with our clients to ensure their application meets all the requirements set out by the Home Office.

Our approach is tailored to our client’s specific needs and goals, and we pride ourselves on providing proactive, on-time service with attention to detail. Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking to establish a new business in the UK or an existing business looking to expand your operations, we are here to assist you at every step.

To learn more about our Startup Visa services or to schedule a free consultation, please contact us at 0203 004 9956, via email at contact@legalpathway.co.uk, or by completing our online form.

 

Start-up Visa UK

The Startup Visa is a successor to the Tier 1 Visa and is designed for new entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business in the UK for the first time. This route was announced by the Home Secretary in June 2018 to expand the applicant pool of talented entrepreneurs. To qualify for the Startup Visa route, you must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body, making the visa process faster and smoother for entrepreneurs to come to the UK.

 

Start-up Visa Requirements

To apply for the Startup visa, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Endorsement and an age restriction of 18 years or above is the first thing that needs to be checked.
  • Have a minimum English language level of at least CEFR level B2 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
  • Be able to maintain yourself while you are in the UK. You must have at least £945 in your bank account for 90 days before applying.
 

Start-up Visa Main Features

The Startup Visa offers no initial funding requirements, and a visa is granted for two years. It offers you flexibility in working outside your own business to support yourself, and you can bring your dependant family members, i.e., spouse (husband/wife) or any children under 18, to the UK.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Start-up Visa

You can apply for a Startup Visa if:

  • You want to set up a business in the UK.
  • You are from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
  • You are at least 18 years old.
  • You meet the English language requirement.
  • You can prove you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK.
  • You must get your business idea endorsed by an authorised body, either a UK higher education institution or a business organisation with a history of supporting UK entrepreneurs.
 

Duration of Start-up Visa

You can stay in the UK for up to two years with no extension possible. However, you can extend into the Innovator Visa.

 

Application Process Time

The decision on Startup Visa applications can be made within three weeks. You can apply up to three months before the intended travel date.

 

Home Office Application Fee

Applicants outside the United Kingdom must pay £363.00 towards the application fee.

 

Start-up Visa Extension

Within 24 months of endorsement, you must demonstrate enough progress to meet the requirements of the UK Innovator Visa.

Please contact us at Legal Pathway Solicitors if you have any questions about the Startup visa or need assistance with your application. You can reach us at 0203 004 9956, via email at contact@legalpathway.co.uk, or by completing our online form.

    Now Replaced By

    Innovator Founder Visa: A Gateway for Entrepreneurial Talent

    The Innovator Founder Visa is a UK immigration pathway tailored for entrepreneurs with a unique business vision. It’s the perfect fit for those who have yet to receive an endorsement but are keen to establish an innovative business in the UK. To qualify, your business idea must be new, innovative, viable, and scalable, with the potential for job creation and growth into national and international markets.

    Skilled Worker Visa: Empower Your Business with Self-Sponsorship

    For entrepreneurs already operating a business in the UK, the Skilled Worker Visa offers a strategic advantage. Through self-sponsorship, you can utilise your existing UK company to secure your visa. This route requires a certificate of sponsorship from your business, meeting the eligible occupation list, and adhering to the minimum salary requirement. It is an excellent opportunity to consolidate your business presence and contribute to the UK’s economic landscape.

    Testimonials
    From Our Clients
    belinda kuagbelabelinda kuagbela
    22:59 15 Apr 24
    Syed DibaSyed Diba
    12:53 07 Feb 24
    Romana Kousar is a experienced solicitor who helped me alot and guided me for my immigration matter. I will still be facing difficulties if i did not have her as my lawyer. I recommend everyone to come to her.
    Farhana RahmanFarhana Rahman
    18:07 06 Feb 24
    The staff were very helpful in arranging a quick advice appointment. On arrival they were friendly and Romana reviewed our case thoroughly, provided us with vaulable advice and many options. We felt relieved that we had a positive case as we were stressing over a sponsorship visa. Highly recommend Legal pathway solicitors as they are very helpful and professional.
    Rabia AliRabia Ali
    13:34 16 Aug 23
    I am so happy today as I got good news for my case! First I did not know what to do and things were difficult for me. I had been to many lawyers. Then finally met a trustworthy solicitor Romana Kousar who really helped me so much. I can not thank her enough for what she has done for me. I will always recommend her.
    Faheem GhaznaviFaheem Ghaznavi
    10:15 22 Jul 23
    All i want to say is how knowledgable and helpful person Romana is. She handled my file and always gave me good advice. She always listened to my problems. I was in a messy situation. I am so glad someone recommended me to her. Well done Romana keep doing hard work.
    Sumera AhmadSumera Ahmad
    09:16 22 Jul 23
    Excellent Solicitor Romana. We got high standard care on our court case. She helped me win in court. She made communication easy and everything was clear for me.
    belinda kuagbelabelinda kuagbela
    22:59 15 Apr 24
    Syed DibaSyed Diba
    12:53 07 Feb 24
    Romana Kousar is a experienced solicitor who helped me alot and guided me for my immigration matter. I will still be facing difficulties if i did not have her as my lawyer. I recommend everyone to come to her.
    Farhana RahmanFarhana Rahman
    18:07 06 Feb 24
    The staff were very helpful in arranging a quick advice appointment. On arrival they were friendly and Romana reviewed our case thoroughly, provided us with vaulable advice and many options. We felt relieved that we had a positive case as we were stressing over a sponsorship visa. Highly recommend Legal pathway solicitors as they are very helpful and professional.
    Rabia AliRabia Ali
    13:34 16 Aug 23
    I am so happy today as I got good news for my case! First I did not know what to do and things were difficult for me. I had been to many lawyers. Then finally met a trustworthy solicitor Romana Kousar who really helped me so much. I can not thank her enough for what she has done for me. I will always recommend her.
    Faheem GhaznaviFaheem Ghaznavi
    10:15 22 Jul 23
    All i want to say is how knowledgable and helpful person Romana is. She handled my file and always gave me good advice. She always listened to my problems. I was in a messy situation. I am so glad someone recommended me to her. Well done Romana keep doing hard work.
    Sumera AhmadSumera Ahmad
    09:16 22 Jul 23
    Excellent Solicitor Romana. We got high standard care on our court case. She helped me win in court. She made communication easy and everything was clear for me.
    js_loader
    Ask Us Anything
    Arrange a call back, book an appointment or or ask a direct question by leaving a message.
    whatsapp