Start-up Visa
The Start-up visa is a new visa route opened in March 2019 as a replacement of the previous T1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa. Since 13 July 2023, the Start-up route is closed to new applicants.
The visa category aims at individuals who are looking to establish a business in the UK for the first time. It offers an entrepreneurial venture opportunity in the UK, as well as a pathway to familiarise the UK business environment. It often serves as a stepping stone for those who plan to stay permanently in the UK.
Suitable for...
Overseas graduates who intend to stay/return to the UK
Individuals who are looking to start a business in the UK for the first time
Students who want to extend their stay in the UK to look for a job and transfer to a work visa
Individuals who aim to settle in the UK through entrepreneurship
Benefits and Advantages
1
Flexible and low entry requirements
It is a flexible visa route that have no requirement on relevant business experiences or initial capital funds. Both UK and international graduates are eligible to apply.
2
2 years of stay in the UK
Within 2 years, applicants are allowed to live and work in the UK. After obtaining the visa, there is a 2-year period to prepare for transitioning to other visas, such as a skilled worker visa or an Innovator visa.
3
Supporting start-up ideas
Applicants can apply individually or as an entrepreneurial team. With no explicit business experience requirements, allowing successful applicants 2 years to build their business and plan out for the next step.
4
Pathway to settlement
At the end of the 2 years, you may switch to the Innovator visa to continue develop your business, which leads to settlement in the UK.
5
Applicants can relocate with their family members and receive free healthcare in the UK
You and your family will have access to the National Health Service in the UK.
6
Access to world-class UK education
Your dependent children (under 18) can come to the UK with you and receive free UK education.
Requirements
Having an endorsement letter from an Home Office approved endorsing body following the assessment of an innovative, viable and scalable business plan.
Meeting the English language requirement of CEFR Level B2 or having a qualification equivalent to UK degree-level qualifications
Proof of maintenance funds by having at least £1270 for no less than 28 days to support yourself.
There may be additional eligibility requirements depending on your circumstances, you may want to speak to an immigration specialist for expert advice.
The information provided on this webpage is for reference only and should not be construed as legal immigration advice on any matter. For further information or to discuss your application, please contact our immigration consultants for further assistance.
Why 1st Visa?
1/ Extensive Experience in Visa Applications
With rich experience in visa application, our team of consultants can efficiently and accurately help clients prepare and apply for visas. We provide full-process consulting services and precise and personalised guidance, eliminating unnecessary troubles in the application process and ensuring a high success rate.
2/ Handling Complex Applications
Our experienced visa experts have dealt with various difficult situations in the visa application process, helping applicants prepare application materials while promptly handling and resolving various unexpected problems encountered during the application process. We strive to obtain positive visa application results for our clients and provide transparent services, enabling clients to keep track of their application and visa progress at any time.
3 / Numerous successful cases
Since our establishment, numerous successful cases have endorsed our brand and services. We have established a stellar reputation in the industry with high success rates, high customer satisfaction, and high referral rates.