Are you an entrepreneur? Looking to start your business in the United Kingdom? Yes, you think right; it is one of the most attractive destinations for those people looking to expand their business. Obtaining a business visa is one of the most difficult steps for an Indian entrepreneur with the hope of establishing a business in the UK. The best path to owning a business in the UK is the Self-Sponsorship Visa UK, the most adaptable pathway for Indian enterprise leaders, and no third-party sponsorship is required.
To secure the UK visas of entrepreneurs, A Y & J Solicitors support you through a smooth application process with specialised guidance. In this article, you will be given step-by-step directions on how to apply for a UK business visa from India.
Understanding the UK Business Visa for Indian Entrepreneurs
Many visa options are available for business, such as the Innovator Founder Visa and the UK Expansion Visa. The visa, which allows them to set up their companies in the UK with the most friendly option and the easiest path, is the Self-Sponsorship Visa UK, in which you don’t have to rely on a UK-based sponsor.
Why Choose the Self-Sponsorship Visa UK?
- A UK sponsor is not required.
- You have full authority over your business.
- Clear pathway for settlement in the UK.
- It is eligible to bring the members of the family to the UK.
- A fixed amount of capital is not required, unlike other business visas.
By using the self-sponsorship visa route, let’s find out the process for applying step by step for a UK business visa from India.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Make sure that all the criteria are being fulfilled before applying for the UK business visa.
To establish a business in the UK, you must have a sincere purpose and relevant experience in business.
- Your business plan must be valid to aid the economy of the UK.
- You must possess enough funds to maintain yourself and your business in the UK.
- You must comply with the English language criteria, which is generally IELTS B1 level or an equivalent.
- You must meet the UK immigration health requirements and must not have any criminal record.
Step 2: Establish a UK Company
One of the major steps in the self-sponsorship visa path is to register your company. Let me explain the process:
- Select a distinct business name and register it with Companies House UK.
- Select a director (you may choose yourself as a business owner).
- You must establish a UK business bank account.
- You have to get a permit for your business sector.
Step 3: Apply for a Sponsor Licence.
From the Home Office of the UK, you must get a sponsor Licence. Your company is allowed to sponsor skilled worker visas, inclusive of your own.
The main steps to include in securing a sponsor licence include:
- On the Home Office website of the UK, you need to fill out the online application form.
- You need to provide the required documents, like registration of the business, records of the financial year, policies related to HR, etc.
- For visa applications, required charges must be fulfilled relevant to the Home Office fees.
- Paying the applicable home office fees.
- To demonstrate to your company that it can abide by the sponsor’s duty.
Step 4: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to Yourself
Once your UK company receives its sponsor licence, the next step is to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to yourself. The CoS is an electronic document containing a reference number required for your visa application.
Critical information to include in your CoS:
- Your job function within the company (must meet the UK Shortage Occupation List or skilled worker requirements).
- Pay details (must adhere to the UK employment rules).
- Information about the firm and sponsorship information.
Step 5: Submit Your Self-Sponsorship Visa Application
You can apply for a UK business visa from India with your CoS in hand. The process of application involves:
Online, you can complete the application form for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Submitting the required visa fee and Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) payment.
- At the nearest UK visa application centre in India, you must schedule a biometric appointment.
- Supporting documents need to be submitted; they include:
History of Travel and Passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference code
- Evidence of English language competency
- Company strategy and financial documentation
- Tuberculosis screening results (if applicable)
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview (If Required)
Be prepared for the UK Home Office interview to monitor the intentions of the business and its credibility. Remain ready to answer all questions about these factors mentioned below:
- Your goals and company model
- Your position within the UK business
- Your role in the UK company
- Funding plans and economic security
- Job opportunities you will generate in the UK
Step 7: Receive Your Visa and Relocate to the UK
For an initial period of up to 5 years, you may receive a UK business visa when your application becomes successful. To lead a permanent residency in the UK, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Upon arrival in the UK:
- Register with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for tax purposes.
- Operations regarding business setup need to be initiated and the staff can be appointed as if required.
- It is essential to comply with the responsibilities set by the UK Home Office.
Why Choose Us for Your Self-Sponsorship Visa UK Application?
From start to finish line, you will get expert guidance that navigates all the complexities. The services we offer include:
- Comprehensive business eligibility assessment
- Company registration and sponsor licence application support
- Business plan preparation and legal compliance
- Visa application preparation and representation
- Ongoing support for business immigration compliance
Final Thoughts
Every Indian entrepreneur can turn their dreams into reality by choosing the UK self-sponsorship visa route.
For any query or more information, visit our website or book a consultation with our expert advisors.
Through the self-sponsorship visa route in the UK, we have guided many Indian entrepreneurs in successfully establishing their businesses. Our team of experts must make sure that everything related to the application is handled effectively and professionally.
