Business Visa UK 2025: A Guide

Section A: What is a UK Business Visa?

In the UK, there is no single or dedicated ‘business visa’. The UK immigration system offers a range of routes designed to attract entrepreneurs, investors and skilled professionals who want to establish or expand operations in the UK. Depending on the route, applicants may need to show a business plan, secure an endorsement from an approved body or be sponsored by a licensed employer where required.

1. Who needs a Business Visa for the UK?

A business visa is required for non-UK nationals whose planned activity is not permitted under the visitor rules or who intend to establish or operate a business in the UK. The correct route depends on the activity, nationality and intended length of stay.

a. Short-Term Business Visitors

Individuals who are visiting the UK for up to 6 months to carry out permitted business activities, such as attending meetings, trade fairs, conferences, negotiating contracts or site visits, fall under the Standard Visitor Visa. Where the activity qualifies as a Permitted Paid Engagement, payment from a UK source is allowed where a Permitted Paid Engagement applies, arranged in advance and completed within 30 days (visa nationals apply in advance; you must be invited by a UK-based organisation). For example, a marketing executive from India attending a three-day UK industry conference would use the Standard Visitor route.

b. Entrepreneurs and Start-Ups

Those looking to start a new business should consider the Innovator Founder route. This is suitable for experienced entrepreneurs with a scalable, innovative idea endorsed by an authorised UK body. For example, a tech entrepreneur from South Africa launching a fintech start-up with investment backing applies under the Innovator Founder route.

c. Employees Transferring to a UK Branch

Employees of overseas businesses may need a Global Business Mobility visa. The UK Expansion Worker route supports establishing a first UK presence. The Senior or Specialist Worker route is used for intra-group transfers to an existing UK entity. Role suitability, salary and overseas employment history requirements apply.

d. Contract-Based Service Providers

Professionals delivering services under a covered international trade agreement, such as engineers or legal consultants, may qualify for the Service Supplier route. Eligibility is tied to a recognised trade agreement and sponsorship, with either an eligible occupation or prescribed qualifications or experience.

2. Types of UK business visa

The UK offers several options for business-related activity beyond work visa options, from short visits to establishing or expanding a business or taking skilled employment.

Section B: Innovator Founder Visa

The Innovator Founder route is for entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK. There is no fixed minimum investment. Applicants need endorsement from an approved body and a credible plan that shows market need, growth potential and the applicant’s day-to-day role in delivery.

1. Eligibility and points

Applicants score 70 points. Fifty points are awarded for the business proposition meeting innovation, viability and scalability. Ten points are for English language at level B2. Ten points are for financial maintenance. The applicant should be a founder or key contributor and intend to play an active role in managing and developing the business.

2. Endorsement requirements

Endorsement from an authorised body is required before applying. Assessors will look at the business model, market validation, route to customers, financial forecasts and the applicant’s capability and background. The body will also assess the applicant as fit and proper and check source of funds where relevant. Endorsement must be maintained throughout leave and can be withdrawn if progress is not satisfactory.

3. English language and funds

English is set at level B2. Maintenance is £1,270 for 28 days if applying from overseas or if in the UK for less than 12 months. Where the applicant has been lawfully in the UK for 12 months or more, maintenance evidence is not usually required. Dependants have separate financial requirements.

4. New business or same business

a. New business

The applicant proposes a new venture. They should show originality, a clear UK market, credible milestones and a delivery plan for product or service launch, hiring and funding. The applicant should have a controlling or significant role and sufficient time to run the venture.

b. Same business

For those previously endorsed under Start-up or Innovator who are continuing the same venture. Evidence should show traction against the earlier plan, such as revenue, customer growth, partnerships or product development, and that Companies House filings and tax registrations are in good order.

5. Monitoring, extensions and settlement

Endorsing bodies schedule check-ins, typically at 12 and 24 months, to review progress against the endorsed plan. Further permission depends on satisfactory progress. The route can lead to settlement where the published Innovator Founder success criteria are met, including evidence of sustained growth and economic contribution aligned to the criteria set out for settlement under the route.

Read more about the Innovator Founder visa here >>

Section C: UK Expansion Worker Visa

The UK Expansion Worker route supports overseas businesses that have been trading abroad and now intend to establish a first UK presence. It is designed for senior managers or specialist employees responsible for setting up the UK branch or subsidiary. The route is part of the Global Business Mobility framework and focuses on businesses expanding rather than entrepreneurs starting new ventures.

1. Eligibility

The overseas business should normally have been trading for at least 12 months, though the Home Office sponsor guidance allows limited exceptions where evidence of capability and stability can be shown. The applicant must be a senior manager or specialist employee of the overseas business and, in most cases, have been employed by the organisation outside the UK for at least 12 months before applying, unless an exemption applies.

The business cannot already be actively trading in the UK when the first Expansion Worker licence is issued. Once the business begins trading, it will no longer be eligible to sponsor new workers under this route.

2. Sponsorship and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The overseas company must first apply for a UK Expansion Worker sponsor licence. Once granted, the business can assign a CoS to the individual who will come to the UK to set up operations. The licence is temporary and valid for up to four years. The Home Office expects the company to establish a UK trading presence within two years of the first CoS being assigned. After that point, CoS allocation under this route will close, and the business will be expected to transition to a Worker licence such as Skilled Worker.

3. Duration and extensions

Permission is granted for up to 12 months initially and can be extended once, giving a maximum stay of two years. The route does not lead directly to settlement. Once a UK entity is established and operational, future sponsorship should be under the Skilled Worker or Senior or Specialist Worker route.

4. Salary and skill level

The sponsored role must meet the minimum salary threshold, which is the higher of the general threshold or the occupation’s going rate under the applicable SOC code. The role must be skilled to at least RQF Level 6.

Read more about the Expansion Worker visa here >>

Section D: Self-Sponsorship Via Skilled Worker Visa

Self-sponsorship allows a business owner to establish a UK company, obtain a sponsor licence and then sponsor their own role within that business. It is suited to entrepreneurs with viable, lawful business models who prefer a mainstream employment route rather than an endorsement-based option. The company should be properly set up, registered with Companies House and operate a UK business bank account to handle finances transparently. Once licensed, the company can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship for the founder’s Skilled Worker application.

1. Sponsor licence and company readiness

The company needs a sponsor licence before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship. UKVI expects credible evidence of trading plans, genuine vacancy, appropriate HR systems and compliance capability. Key personnel should be appointed and record-keeping and right to work processes put in place. The business should be able to show it can pay salaries, meet immigration duties and comply with UK employment law.

2. Role, salary and skill level

For new sponsorship from 22 July 2025, roles generally need to be at RQF Level 6. The general salary threshold is £41,700 unless an Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List concession applies, and pay should meet or exceed the occupation’s going rate under the tradeable points rules. Job descriptions, contracts and the CoS should be aligned, with working hours clear and any part-time arrangements reflected correctly.

3. English language and maintenance

Applicants need English at level B1 for Skilled Worker. Maintenance can be met via personal funds or, where applicable, certified by the sponsor on the CoS. Dependants have separate financial requirements. Where the applicant has been lawfully in the UK for 12 months or more, maintenance evidence is usually not required.

4. Application process and permission

After the sponsor licence is approved and a CoS is assigned, the applicant completes the online application, pays the fees and Immigration Health Surcharge, then enrols biometrics or uses the UK Immigration ID Check app if eligible. Skilled Worker permission is typically granted for up to five years and can be extended. Successful applicants hold digital status as an eVisa.

5. Progression and dependants

Time on Skilled Worker counts toward settlement. Subject to meeting all requirements, applicants can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years. Eligible partners and children can apply as dependants and, where granted, can work or study in the UK.

Section E: Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent route suits applicants recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology and arts and culture. It offers wide flexibility to take employment, consult, found or join a business and change roles without needing a sponsor. Applicants qualify either with an endorsement from an approved body or by holding an eligible prestigious prize. Leave can be granted for up to five years at a time and the route can lead to settlement.

1. Eligibility routes

Applicants either secure an endorsement from the relevant body for their field or rely on the prestigious prizes list. Endorsement focuses on the strength of the track record and impact, with separate criteria for “talent” and “promise”. In digital technology, for example, evidence can include innovation, commercial impact or technical leadership. In science and research, evidence may include publications, grants or significant contribution to major projects. The prize route avoids endorsement where the award appears on the Home Office list.

2. Work and business flexibility

Permission is unsponsored. Holders can take salaried roles, undertake self-employment, establish or join UK companies and carry out multiple engagements. There is no restriction to a single employer. Changes in role do not require a fresh application provided conditions are met. This flexibility is often attractive to founders and senior technologists who expect their role to evolve as ventures scale.

3. Documents, English and funds

Applications evidence the endorsement or prize and the supporting materials required by the endorsing body. There is no set English language level for the visa grant. There is no routine maintenance funds requirement for the main applicant, although dependants have separate financial rules. Applicants should ensure documents are complete and consistent with endorsing body guidance to avoid delays.

4. Length of stay, dependants and settlement

Applicants can choose how many years of permission to request, up to five years. Partners and children under 18 can apply as dependants and, where granted, can work or study. Time on Global Talent counts toward settlement. Accelerated settlement may be available in some fields where the published criteria are satisfied, subject to evidencing continued work in the area of endorsement and meeting the usual rules on absences and knowledge of life in the UK.

Read more about the Global Talent visa here >>

Section F: High Potential Individual Visa

The High Potential Individual (HPI) route attracts recent graduates from top-ranked global universities who want to live and work in the UK without needing sponsorship. It provides a pathway for talented individuals to gain UK experience and build professional or entrepreneurial careers. The route offers short-term flexibility rather than a long-term settlement route.

1. Eligibility

Applicants must have been awarded a degree-level or higher qualification in the five years before applying, from a university that appeared on the Home Office’s eligible list for the year of graduation. The qualification must be equivalent to a UK bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree. The list is reviewed annually, and the institution must have featured in at least two global rankings within the top 50.

Applicants must also meet English language at level B1 and show financial maintenance funds where applicable. Evidence of degree verification from Ecctis is required for non-UK awards.

2. Duration and conditions

Successful applicants are granted two years’ permission, or three years if the qualification is a PhD. There is full flexibility to work, be self-employed or look for work. Sponsored employment is not required. The HPI visa does not lead directly to settlement but allows switching to other routes such as Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder when eligibility criteria are met.

3. Dependants and future changes

Eligible partners and children under 18 can apply as dependants. They can work or study while in the UK. From 1 January 2027, policy changes are scheduled to reduce the HPI permission period for non-PhD graduates to 18 months, although this has not yet taken effect.

Read more about the High Potential Individual visa here >>

Section G: GBM Service Supplier Visa

The Service Supplier route allows overseas professionals to deliver services in the UK under covered international trade agreements. It forms part of the Global Business Mobility framework and is open to employees of overseas service providers or self-employed professionals based abroad. The route is not for general employment or business start-ups but supports temporary, contract-based work where a valid international agreement applies.

1. Eligibility

The applicant must be either an employee of an overseas business or a self-employed service supplier established in the country of nationality. The service provided must be covered by a UK trade agreement such as the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) or a country-specific deal, for example with Canada or Japan. The applicant must hold a qualifying role listed in the eligible occupations or meet the required qualifications and professional experience set out for the agreement.

2. Sponsorship and contract requirements

A UK-licensed sponsor is required. The UK organisation must have a genuine contract with the overseas provider to supply services under the relevant trade agreement. The sponsor assigns a Certificate of Sponsorship referencing that contract. UKVI may request evidence of the contract and confirmation of the overseas worker’s experience and qualifications.

3. Duration and conditions

Permission is usually granted for up to 12 months, or up to 6 months for some specific agreements. The visa does not lead directly to settlement. Work is limited to the activity covered by the sponsored contract. Dependants can apply where eligible and will have permission to work or study.

Read more about the Service Supplier visa here >>

Section H: How to Apply for a Business Visa

Applying for a UK business visa requires careful preparation and a full understanding of the requirements for the chosen route. Each visa has specific eligibility criteria, documentation rules and application steps. The following stages outline the general process for most business visa categories and highlight areas where errors commonly occur.

1. Determine the Right Visa Type

Before starting an application, identify the most suitable route based on your objectives and eligibility. Options include the Innovator Founder Visa, Self-Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, UK Expansion Worker Visa, Global Talent and High Potential Individual routes. The Start-up Visa, Sole Representative Visa and Turkish Businessperson Visa are now closed to new applicants, although transitional provisions may apply for existing holders. Each active route has distinct requirements relating to endorsement, sponsorship, investment or contractual arrangements, so confirming the correct route early is crucial to avoid refusal.

2. Gather Supporting Documentation

Supporting documents should be comprehensive and consistent. They must show eligibility for the selected route and comply with UKVI formatting and translation standards. Evidence typically includes business plans, contracts, financial records, endorsements, qualifications and identity documents. Incomplete or poorly presented evidence is a frequent cause of delays and refusals.

3. Complete the Online Application

Applications are made online via GOV.UK. Applicants create a UKVI account and complete the form with details about their background, business activities, finances and travel history. Accuracy and consistency across the application and documents are critical. Information that does not match will lead to queries or refusal. Save a PDF copy of the submitted form for your records.

4. Pay the Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge

Visa application fees vary by route and duration. The current fee for a six-month Standard Visitor Visa is £127. Most long-term routes also require payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives access to NHS services during the stay. Keep all payment confirmations for reference.

5. Submit Biometrics

After submitting the online form, applicants must provide biometric information. This is completed either by attending an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or, where eligible, by using the UK Immigration: ID Check app to verify identity digitally. Biometrics involve fingerprints and a digital photograph, and applicants should bring their passport, appointment confirmation and supporting evidence.

6. Attend an Interview (If Required)

UKVI may invite applicants for an interview depending on the visa type and complexity of the case. This is more likely where investment, endorsements or new business models are involved. Applicants should be ready to explain their business plan, funding, operational model and contribution to the UK market. Supporting documents such as forecasts or investor letters should be readily available.

7. Await the Decision

Once biometrics are submitted, the application enters assessment. Standard processing is around three weeks for applications made outside the UK, though times vary by route and location. Priority or super priority services can be used where offered for an additional fee.

8. Receive the Outcome and Immigration Status

If successful, the applicant receives a decision letter confirming approval. Entry clearance is issued digitally, or for out-of-country applications, via a travel vignette. Immigration permission is now held as an eVisa rather than a Biometric Residence Permit. Applicants can view and share their digital status through their UKVI account. Where refused, the decision letter explains the reasons and whether administrative review or reapplication options apply.

Section I: Summary

A successful UK move for business hinges on choosing the right route and proving eligibility with clean, consistent evidence. The options are there for different aims. Innovator Founder suits a new, endorsed venture. Expansion Worker supports a first UK footprint for an overseas company. Self-sponsorship under Skilled Worker can work for mainstream businesses where the role meets RQF 6 and current salary rules. Global Talent gives wide flexibility for recognised leaders. HPI offers short-term scope to work or build credentials. Service Supplier covers contract work under trade agreements. Short visits for meetings or paid engagements sit under the visitor rules where conditions are met.

Preparation is the differentiator. Align job description, contract, and CoS wording. Check salary against the going rate and the current general threshold. Keep time-stamped copies of the ISL or TSL relied on. For endorsed routes, submit a plan that shows real market demand, realistic milestones and the founder’s role in delivery. For company moves, ensure the overseas trading history and any 12-month employment requirement are evidenced. Keep documents consistent across the form, bank records and company filings.

Process detail now matters more than ever. Applications are online, decisions issue to an eVisa, and UKVI expects applicants and sponsors to follow guidance exactly. Get the route right at the outset and build a file that would withstand a compliance check. If there are gaps or commercial constraints, take advice early so the immigration strategy supports the wider business plan rather than working against it.

Section J: Need Assistance?

For overseas entrepreneurs, investors or business owners planning to establish a commercial presence or operate in the UK, professional advice can help ensure the right route is chosen and all requirements are met. Each business visa category has distinct evidential and procedural demands, and mistakes can lead to costly refusals or compliance issues after arrival.

Many applications are refused for avoidable reasons, including missing or inconsistent documents, errors in financial evidence or discrepancies between the form, business plan and supporting materials. It is important to cross-check all figures, contract details, employment information and funding evidence to confirm consistency before submission.

For endorsement-based routes, weak or incomplete business plans can lead to refusal. Plans should be well-researched, realistic and specific to the UK market opportunity. Financial evidence should meet the current maintenance and investment criteria and show lawful sources of funds.

Employers and applicants should also retain time-stamped copies of all versions of the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List used to support the application. This protects against later disputes if the list changes after submission.

DavidsonMorris are experienced UK immigration advisers providing strategic guidance to individuals and businesses establishing UK operations. We assess eligibility, manage endorsement or sponsorship applications, and support clients through every stage of the visa process. For tailored UK immigration advice, contact us.

Section K: UK Visa to Start a Business FAQs

What types of visas are available for starting a business in the UK?

Several visa options allow foreign nationals to start or expand a business in the UK, including the Innovator Founder Visa, Self-Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, the UK Expansion Worker Visa, and the Global Talent Visa. Each has distinct criteria, so the correct choice depends on your goals and circumstances.

What is the Innovator Founder Visa, and who is it for?

The Innovator Founder Visa is for experienced entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea that fills a genuine market gap in the UK. Applicants must secure endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body and show that their business is viable, scalable and innovative.

Can I switch to a business visa if I am already in the UK?

Switching may be possible from certain visa types, but not all. Eligibility depends on your current immigration category and whether the new route permits in-country applications. Applicants should check the specific switching rules or seek advice before applying.

Do I need a specific amount of investment to qualify?

The Innovator Founder route no longer has a set investment minimum, but applicants must evidence adequate funds to launch and develop their business. The endorsing body will assess whether resources are realistic for the proposed venture.

Is a business plan necessary for these visas?

The Innovator Founder visa requires a detailed business plan for both endorsement and the visa application. It must clearly demonstrate the uniqueness, viability and scalability of the business idea, aligned with the Home Office’s criteria.

Can I bring my family to the UK on a business visa?

Innovator Founder, Skilled Worker, UK Expansion Worker, Global Talent and High Potential Individual visa holders can bring eligible dependants, including partners and children under 18, if financial and relationship requirements are met. Dependants may also work and study in the UK.

How long does it take to get a decision on a business visa application?

Processing times vary by route and location but are generally around three weeks for applications made outside the UK. Priority and super-priority options may be available for faster decisions, subject to additional fees and capacity at the visa centre.

Section L: Glossary

Section M: Additional Resources & Links