The United Kingdom offers a unique opportunity for individuals who want to set up or already own a business on British soil. Starting an entrepreneurial venture in the UK as a migrant may seem challenging, but with the innovative self-sponsorship visa scheme, it becomes a feasible and legal process. In this article, we will explore the details of this informal but effective and legal procedure, which allows foreigners to register their own company in the UK and work their way towards long-term establishment.
Is it possible to start a business in the UK without holding immigration status?
Nature of the visa
At its core, the self-sponsorship visa is designed to enable individuals from abroad to register their own companies in the UK. This approach circumvents traditional barriers, allowing immigrants to sponsor their own Skilled Worker visas by meeting specific criteria, including establishing a genuine UK-based company and securing a sponsor licence.
What are the key details that you need to know?
This visa allows individuals not only to work for their UK-based company, but also to be sponsored by it. Delving into the intricacies of this visa scheme, applicants have the opportunity to pave the way towards settlement in the UK after a period of five years, and they may also bring family members such as a spouse and children (through the Skilled Worker dependant visa).
Sponsor licence
Acquiring a sponsor licence for a skilled worker from your UK-based enterprise is crucial. This essential document is the gateway to unlocking opportunities for self-sponsorship through the Skilled Worker visa.
How to apply
The application process is carefully structured into four main stages: establishing a company in the UK, securing a sponsor licence for a skilled worker, obtaining a certificate of sponsorship and finally applying for a Skilled Worker visa. Each stage requires attention to detail, from registering a company (which can be initiated abroad), to navigating the UK’s legal and regulatory landscape with the help of professionals.
Step-by-step guide to success
Applicants must be over 18 years old, possess excellent English language skills and demonstrate the legitimacy of their business. The process from company registration to obtaining a sponsor licence is lengthy and complex. However, it paves the way for long-term residency and offers the opportunity to reunite the entire family at a later stage.
Navigating the process with expert assistance
The role of expert consultants, such as Vladisara, is invaluable in guiding clients through each step, from the initial company registration, to obtaining the sponsor licence, maintaining it and managing the company’s accounting and payroll records.
Advantages
Long-term settlement: Allows individuals to settle in the UK for the long term after a period of five years.
Opportunity for family members to join: Spouse and children.
Global workforce: Business owners have the opportunity to hire a diverse workforce from around the world through a sponsor licence.
Requirements for self-sponsorship Skilled Worker visa:
To sponsor yourself for a Skilled Worker visa, you will need to meet the UK visa and immigration requirements, which include:
- You are 18 years of age or older;
- You own an established company in the UK that is active and genuine;
- Your UK company has successfully applied for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence;
- Your UK company has provided you with a valid certificate of sponsorship for the work that you intend to undertake;
- Your job offer is a genuine vacancy;
- Your job is at an appropriate skill level;
- You will be paid a salary that is equal to or exceeds the general salary threshold, the ‘going rate’ for the occupation and the minimum hourly rate (if applicable);
- Your sponsor has paid all necessary immigration skills charges;
- You are proficient in English to at least CEFR level B1 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0);
- You have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds.
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
| Can I be a director and shareholder of the UK company if I sponsor myself? | Yes, as a self-sponsored individual, you can be both a director of and a shareholder in your UK company. |
| Is there a requirement for investment funds? | No, there is no mandatory requirement for investment funds. However, providing sufficient funds can strengthen your application. |
| Does the business need to be innovative or unique? | No, there is no requirement for the UK company to be innovative or unique. |
| What are the salary requirements? | The salary must meet or exceed the general salary threshold and the going rate for the occupation. |
| Is a business plan required for the application? | Although not mandatory, having a detailed business plan can enhance your application by demonstrating the authenticity of your business. |
| Is English language proficiency required? | Yes, English language proficiency to at least level B1 is required in all four components. Various options for proving skills are accepted. |
| How long is the visa valid for? | Typically, a self-sponsored visa is valid for the duration of the licence, usually up to five years. |
| Can I take on additional work in the UK? | You are generally expected to work for the company that you have sponsored. Additional work may require separate permission. |
| Can I obtain permanent residence in the UK? | Yes, after five consecutive years in the UK that meet the residency requirements. |
Starting a business in the UK without immigration status is indeed possible through the self-sponsorship visa scheme. This visa highlights the UK’s commitment to attracting entrepreneurial acumen from around the world. By adhering to the required stages and utilising expert advice, entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of the application process, paving the way for a successful business venture in the UK. With the support of Vladisara, navigating this process becomes seamless, offering migrants the opportunity for business success, long-term settlement and the joy of family reunification. For more information, contact Vladisara today.
This information is current as of 5 March 2024.