Thinking about starting or expanding your business in the United Kingdom? You’re not alone.
The UK is one of the world’s top destinations for entrepreneurs and investors—with a strong economy, global connections, and a business-friendly environment that attracts people from around the world.
If you’re ready to explore business opportunities in the UK, getting a UK Business Visa is your first major step.
But with several visa types, eligibility rules, and documents to prepare, it can feel overwhelming at first.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from choosing the right visa to applying with confidence.
What Is a UK Business Visa?
A UK Business Visa is for individuals who want to start, manage, or invest in a business in the United Kingdom.
These visas give you permission to live and work in the UK while pursuing your business goals.
Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur, an experienced founder with a big idea, or a high-net-worth investor, there’s a visa route designed for you.
Each visa type has different rules—but the goal is the same: to support people with the potential to grow businesses that benefit the UK economy.
Types of UK Business Visas
Let’s look at the most common UK business visa options and what makes each one unique.
1. Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs who have a new, innovative, and scalable business idea.
This idea must be approved by an endorsing body in the UK that confirms your business has real growth potential.
Key requirements:
• Endorsement from a UK-approved endorsing body
• A business idea that is new, innovative, and viable
• Investment funds of at least £50,000 (unless your endorsing body waives this)
• English language proficiency (Level B2 or above)
Visa duration:
3 years, with the option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after that.
Why choose this visa:
It’s perfect if you already have business experience and a strong plan to launch something impactful in the UK market.
2. Start-up Visa
The Start-up Visa is for people who are starting their first business in the UK. You don’t need funding to apply, but your business idea still needs to be innovative and endorsed.
Key requirements:
• Endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body
• A new business idea (not something that already exists)
• A plan with high growth potential
• English language proficiency (Level B2 or above)
Visa duration:
2 years. You can’t extend it, but you can switch to the Innovator Visa afterward if your business is doing well.
Why choose this visa:
It’s a great option for first-time entrepreneurs who don’t have large capital but have a creative and scalable idea.
3. Investor Visa (Note: This route closed in 2022 for new applicants, but worth mentioning for context)
The Tier 1 Investor Visa was for individuals willing to invest at least £2 million into the UK economy.
While it’s closed to new applicants, those who already hold this visa can still apply for extensions and settlement.
Key requirements (when open):
• £2 million investment in UK businesses or government bonds
• Funds held for at least 2 years
• Proof of source of funds
Visa duration:
3 years initially, extendable. You could apply for ILR after 5 years (or even 2 or 3 years with larger investments).
Why choose this visa:
It was ideal for wealthy investors wanting a more passive route into the UK, without needing to start or run a business.
Key Eligibility Requirements for Business Visas
Each visa route has its own specific requirements, but here are a few common factors that apply to most UK business visas:
1. Endorsement from an Approved Body
For the Start-up and Innovator visas, you need a UK-based endorsing body to approve your business idea. They’ll assess whether your idea is:
• Innovative (a unique concept)
• Viable (realistic and workable)
• Scalable (has the potential for growth and job creation)
2. Investment Funds
• Start-up Visa: No set investment needed, but you must show your business is financially realistic.
• Innovator Visa: Requires £50,000+ in funding (can be waived if you’re switching from Start-up or already funded).
Funds must be:
• Available and held in your account for at least 28 days
• Clearly traceable to a legitimate source
3. English Language Proficiency
Most applicants must prove they can speak and understand English. This can be done by:
• Taking a secure English language test (SELT) at B2 level
• Holding a degree taught in English
• Being from an exempt English-speaking country
4. Financial Stability
You’ll also need to show that you can support yourself financially while in the UK—without relying on public funds.
The required savings vary, but generally, you should have:
• £1,270+ in personal funds
• Held for at least 28 days before you apply
How to Apply for a UK Business Visa
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to the application process:
1. Choose the right visa type based on your business goals
2. Get endorsed by a UK endorsing body (if required)
3. Prepare your documents, including your business plan and financial proof
4. Apply online through the official UK government website
5. Pay your application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
6. Book a biometrics appointment and provide fingerprints/photos
7. Wait for a decision (typically 3–8 weeks depending on your location and visa type)
Documents You’ll Need
Make sure you have these ready when applying:
• Valid passport or travel document
• Endorsement letter (for Start-up/Innovator visas)
• Detailed business plan
• Proof of investment funds
• English language certificate or degree
• Bank statements for personal savings
• Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
Fees and Costs
Here’s what you might expect to pay:
Item & Approximated Costs
Visa Application Fee £1,036–£1,292 (varies by visa and location)
Immigration Health Surcharge £624 per year
English Test £150–£200
Endorsement Fee Varies by endorsing body
Legal Help (Optional) £500–£3,000+
Always check the most up-to-date fees before applying.
Processing Time
• Outside the UK: Around 3 weeks
• Inside the UK (switching visas): Around 8 weeks
• Priority or super-priority services may be available for faster decisions (extra fees apply)
After You Get Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you can:
• Live and work in the UK
• Launch or manage your business
• Bring your dependents
• Access services like the NHS
• Start the path to settlement (ILR) and eventually British citizenship
Just remember to keep meeting your visa conditions, including staying active in your business and keeping your endorsement valid (if required).
Final Tips for Success
• Choose the right visa type based on your goals and experience
• Get your endorsement early—it can take time
• Be honest and clear in your business plan and financial records
• Double-check your documents before submitting
• If in doubt, consider expert guidance—it can save time and stress
Conclusion
Getting a UK business visa might seem like a big task, but once you understand the different options and what each one requires, it becomes much more manageable.
Whether you’re launching your first start-up, expanding an existing company, or investing in the UK economy, there’s a clear path to follow.
Focus on choosing the right visa for your goals, prepare a strong business plan, and make sure your documents are complete and accurate.
With the right preparation—and a bit of patience—you’ll be on your way to building your business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.