The Government has introduced two new visa routes for entrepreneurs.
The start-up visa, this visa is for those wishing to establish a business in the UK for the first time. Applicants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea which is supported by an endorsing body. The start-up visa is an expanded version of the Tier 1 graduate entrepreneur visa, which allowed universities to endorse international students.
The innovator visa, this visa is for more experienced businesspeople seeking to establish a business in the UK. Applicants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea which is supported by an endorsing body. With some exceptions, applicants will also have funding to invest in their business.
The key requirement under both these categories is that individuals will need to obtain an endorsement from a relevant body. These bodies will include: UK higher education institutions which meet specific requirements, and organisations with a proven track record of supporting UK entrepreneurs. Such bodies will need to be approved by the Home Office.
If you would like any information or assistance with these visas please contact Leena Chouhan.
