Visas for entrepreneurs in the UK

The United Kingdom continues to be a privileged destination for international entrepreneurs. It helps to delvelop projects in a competitive and innovative environment. However, to be a successful entrepreneur in the UK, it is essential to understand the different visa options available. So here we are, explaining you the different visas for entrepreneurs in the UK.

We never get tired of repeating it, but the UK’s advanced financial infrastructure, and dynamic business culture makes it perfect for entrepreneurs.

Innovator Founder Visa

The Innovator Founder Visa is one of the main routes for those wishing to launch a business in the UK. Perfect for people with innovative business ideas that are genuinely viable and have the backing of an approved organisation.

Unlike Start-up Visa, there is no longer a specific initial investment requirement. Although the financial strength of the entrepreneur is still a relevant factor. The Start-up Visa aimed people with no previous business experience, but with innovative proposals endorsed by recognised organisations in the UK.

Applicants must demonstrate that their project brings something new to the UK market. And also that they have the necessary capacity to start up and actively develop it.

The visa has an initial duration of three years and can lead to permanent residence, provided the requirements are met. It also allows you to bring immediate family members, which facilitates long-term settlement in the country.

Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent Visa represents an attractive alternative for start-up founders with experience in sectors such as technology, science, art or academia.

This visa does not require a job offer, but it does require the endorsement of an authorised entity. It should recognise the applicant’s talent as a leader or future leader in his or her field.

It is an ideal option for those who have demonstrated a high level of professional achievement. Or, why not, have the potential to make a significant contribution to their industry in the UK. It also offers the possibility of unrestricted work or entrepreneurship and access to permanent residence after three or five years.

UK Expansion Worker Visa

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is part of the new global mobility scheme. It is designed to facilitate the entry of professionals wishing to open a branch or subsidiary of their foreign company in the UK. Although it is not exclusively aimed at individual entrepreneurs, it is relevant for those leading established businesses looking to grow in the UK market. If you have already started your business venture and have grown as a business, this is a very interesting option for you.

This visa requires a prior relationship with the parent company and an authorisation to operate in the UK. It is ideal for founders or executives of SMEs who are already operating successfully in other countries and want to personally oversee their expansion into the UK market.

Graduate Visa

For younger entrepreneurs or recent graduates, the Graduate Visa can be the first step towards a business future in the UK. Perfect for those who have completed a university degree at a British institution and wish to remain in the country for a further two years (three if PhD).

Although not designed exclusively for entrepreneurs, this visa allows for unrestricted work and entrepreneurship. It makes it a useful platform to develop business ideas and explore opportunities before applying for a more specific visa, such as the Innovator Founder Visa.