Introduction

The UK is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, with a thriving start-up scene. If you are an entrepreneur looking to start a business in the UK, the start-up visa is designed for you. The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) category was replaced by the Start-up visa on April 5, 2019, to make it easier for non-EEA nationals to come to the UK and set up a business. Here is a guide on the eligibility requirements and application process for the UK Start-up visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a UK Start-up visa, you must:

Be at least 18 years old

Show that you have a viable business idea and innovative plan

Have an endorsement from a UK endorsing body

Provide proof of your English language proficiency

Show that you have enough money to support yourself without depending on UK public funds

Endorsement from a UK Endorsing Body

To apply for a Start-up visa, you must have an endorsement from a UK endorsing body. The endorsing body will assess your business idea and plan and confirm that it is innovative, viable, and scalable. There are currently 26 endorsing bodies approved by the Home Office, including accelerators, incubators, and government organizations. You must obtain an endorsement letter from one of these organizations before you apply for a Start-up visa.

English Language Proficiency

You must prove your English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test or by holding a degree taught or researched in English. The minimum requirement is CEFR level B2 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Financial Requirements

You must show that you have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds. You will need to provide evidence that you have at least ￡945 in your bank account for 90 consecutive days before you apply. If you are staying in the UK for more than 12 months, you will need to show an additional ￡630 for each month you will be staying.

Application Process

Once you have received an endorsement letter from a UK endorsing body, you can apply for a Start-up visa online. You will need to pay a fee of ￡363 for this visa. You will also need to provide the following documents:

Your passport or travel document

Your endorsement letter

Proof of your English language proficiency

Proof that you have enough money to support yourself

If your application is successful, you will be granted a start-up visa for two years. During this time, you will be able to work on your business and make it a success. You can bring your family members, including your spouse or partner and children under the age of 18, as dependents.

In conclusion, the UK Start-up visa is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the UK. It provides a clear pathway for those who have a viable business plan and innovative idea and allows them to work on their business in the UK for two years. If you are an entrepreneur with a great business idea, apply for a Start-up visa today and make your dream a reality.