The UK Start-Up Visa is a visa that allows entrepreneurs to come to the UK to set up and run a new business. It is aimed at entrepreneurs who have an innovative and scalable business idea, but who may not have the financial resources or investment backing to apply for other types of business visas, such as the Innovator Visa.
Currently the UK Start Up Visa is Closed to new applicants.
Who can apply for a UK Start Up Visa?
To be eligible for the UK Start-Up Visa, you must:
- Have an endorsement from an approved endorsing body
- Meet the English language requirement
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to prove that you have enough personal savings to support yourself while you are in the UK
Applying for the UK Start Up Visa
To apply for the UK Start-Up Visa, you must first get an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. Endorsing bodies are organizations that have been approved by the UK government to assess the viability and scalability of business ideas.
Once you have an endorsement, you can apply for the visa online. The visa application process includes submitting a business plan, financial information, and an endorsement letter from the endorsing body.
How long does it take to get a UK Start Up Visa?
It usually takes around 3 weeks to get a UK Start-Up Visa if you are applying from outside the UK. If you are applying from inside the UK, it usually takes around 8 weeks.
However, it is important to note that the processing time can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of your application and the workload of the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
For example, if your application is complex or if there are any problems with your supporting documents, it may take longer to process. Additionally, if the UKVI is experiencing a high volume of applications, it may take longer to process your application.
If you are concerned about the processing time for your UK Start-Up Visa application, you can contact the UKVI for an update.
What happens if your application for a UK Start Up Visa is denied?
If your application for a UK Start-Up Visa is denied, you will receive a letter from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) explaining the reasons for the refusal. You will also have the right to appeal the decision.
There are a number of reasons why your UK Start-Up Visa application may be denied, including:
- Your business idea is not innovative or scalable.
- Your business plan is not comprehensive or well-thought-out.
- You do not meet the English language requirement.
- You have a criminal record.
- You cannot prove that you have enough personal savings to support yourself while you are in the UK.
If you are unsure why your UK Start-Up Visa application was denied, you should contact an immigration lawyer for advice.
If you decide to appeal the decision, you will need to submit an appeal form to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). The appeal will be heard by a judge, who will decide whether or not to overturn the UKVI’s decision.
If your appeal is successful, you will be granted a UK Start-Up Visa. If your appeal is unsuccessful, you will need to leave the UK.
Alternatives to the UK Start Up Visa
There is currently only one visa currently accepting applications which allows you to start a business in the UK, which is the UK Innovator Visa. The UK Innovator Visa is very similar to the UK Start Up Visa but with more strict requirements and a required financial backing of at least £50,000 to start your business.
People also asked..
Does the UK Start Up Visa allow you to merge with current businesses in the UK?
No, the UK Innovator Visa requires your business idea to be new. You cannot join a business that is already trading.
When did applications for UK Start Up Visas close to new applicants?
The UK Start Up Visa closed to new applicants on the 13th of July 2023
Is the Entrepreneur Visa closed to new applicants
The Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa closed to new applications on 29th March 2019. It has been replaced by the new Innovator route.