The UK Start-up visa is for individuals who are new entrepreneurs and want to establish a business in the UK. You do not need to be a graduate or have secured any initial funding. However, you will need to have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea that has been approved by an endorsing body.
The Start-up visa category is suitable for early-stage, but high-potential, entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business in the UK for the first time.
To apply for a UK Start-up Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
Be at least 18 years old
Not have previously started a business in the UK
Have an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body
The endorsement must confirm your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable
The endorsement letter must be issued within 3 months before your visa application
Meet the English language requirement (IELTS 5.5 or equivalent in all areas)
Have sufficient personal savings if you’re applying from outside the UK or have been in the UK for less than 12 months:
£1,270 for yourself
£285 for a dependent partner
£315 for your first child
£200 for each additional child
You don’t need to invest your own money to qualify. However, your business must still be viable and scalable. In practice, you may need access to funds to support your business idea. Some endorsing bodies might ask for a minimum level of funding before giving their endorsement.
Your business idea must meet three key criteria to receive an endorsement:
Innovation: You have a genuine and original idea that meets new or existing market needs
Viability: You have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to run the business
Scalability: Your plan shows potential for job creation and growth within the UK
The endorsing body must also be satisfied that you’ll spend most of your working time in the UK on your business.
You can apply as part of a start-up team. You don’t have to be the only founder. However, each team member must apply separately and receive their own endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
Once your application is approved by an endorsing body, you’ll receive a Start-up Visa Endorsement Letter. You must include this letter in your visa application. If you’re applying through 10-Pro, we can help organize and submit this on your behalf.
Your UK Start-up Visa is valid for 2 years. It cannot be extended, but you may switch to another visa type (such as the Innovator Founder Visa) if you meet the requirements.
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