This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our UK Visa Guidance.
The UK Business Visa allows entrepreneurs and investors to establish or manage a business in the United Kingdom. As of October 2025, the financial requirements vary depending on the specific route — for example, the Innovator Founder Visa or temporary business visitor routes. This article outlines the current minimum investment levels, maintenance requirements, and key evidence you’ll need to meet Home Office standards.
Understanding the UK Business Visa
The UK offers several routes for entrepreneurs and business professionals who want to operate or launch a business in the UK. While the former Start-Up and Innovator Visas have been replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa, the UK Business Visa still exists for short-term business activities and visits. The amount of money you’ll need depends on the type of business activity and your intended length of stay.
Financial Requirements for a UK Business Visa
Applicants must prove that they can financially support themselves and their business without relying on public funds. The Home Office requires applicants to demonstrate both investment capability and financial maintenance.
- Minimum Investment Requirement: For the Innovator Founder Visa, you must show access to at least £50,000 in investment funds. This can come from your own savings or verified external sources.
- Maintenance Funds: You must demonstrate that you have at least £1,270 in personal savings to support yourself during your stay. These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
- Evidence of Financial Stability: Acceptable documentation includes recent bank statements, audited business accounts, investment letters, and proof of business ownership or shareholding (if applicable).
If you plan to enter the UK for short-term business purposes (meetings, conferences, or negotiations), you will generally apply under the Standard Visitor Visa route, which does not have a specific investment requirement but still requires proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Approved Sources of Investment Funds
Your investment funds can come from one or more of the following:
- Personal savings held in a regulated financial institution
- Funds from a UK-approved endorsing body
- Venture capital or private equity investment
- Third-party business sponsors (verified and documented)
Applicants must provide evidence of the origin and ownership of the funds. The Home Office may request additional verification if your financial records are unclear or originate from international institutions.
How to Meet the Financial Requirements
- Prepare early: Ensure your funds are held in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting your visa application.
- Submit clear documentation: Include bank statements, investment confirmations, and any official business endorsement letters.
- Use professional support: A regulated immigration advisor can help you prepare your evidence to meet Home Office standards. See Michael Gibbons’ profile for professional review guidance.
Additional Costs
In addition to the required investment or maintenance funds, applicants should account for the following costs:
- Application fee: £1,036 per applicant (average for Innovator Founder route).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year for adults; £776 for children under 18. See Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (UK) for details.
- Endorsement fee (if applicable): £1,000 on average, depending on the endorsing body.
- Priority service: £500 (decision within 5 working days).
- Super priority service: £1,000 (decision within 24 hours).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your business plan demonstrates long-term viability and innovation potential.
- Keep your financial documentation consistent and traceable.
- Maintain transparent banking and investment records to prevent delays.
- Consult professional advisors early to avoid incomplete submissions.
Related Guidance
- What Is a UK Business Visa?
- How Long Can I Stay in the UK with a Business Visa?
- UK Visa Fees 2025
- UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025