If you are looking to start a business in the UK then you will need to apply for a UK business visa.
In order to qualify for a UK Business Visa you must meet the following requirements:
- You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a UK business visa.
- You must have proof of any legal invitations from the company in the UK in which you will be conducting business.
- You are required to meet the UK’s basic health requirements.
- You must be able to provide proof of financial stability for the duration of your stay in the UK.
It is important to understand the different types of ‘business’ or ‘work’ that you intend to partake in the United Kingdom.
Can You Work in the UK on a Business Visa?
This depends on the visa that you hold. If you are undertaking business activities with a Standard Visitor Visa, you are not permitted to undertake any paid form of work. In addition to setting up or running a business as a self-employed person, the standard visitor visa also bans a number of other things. Among them are the following
- Getting a job in the UK
- Working for a company or organisation in the UK
If you are planning to move to the UK to set up a business, you must apply for a UK business visa beforehand. If you are not a permanent resident of the UK, you are required to obtain a visa before entering the country, whether this be business related or just tourism. Failure to get a visa could result in your business proposal being denied, deportment, and maybe even losing your business. Once you have got a UK business visa, you can also do other activities like conferences and negotiating.
Visitors can travel to the UK on a business visa for up to 6 months at a time. You can visit the UK to do business activities such as:
- Attend interviews
- Meetings
- Conferences
- Seminars
- Sign deals and contracts
Tips for working in the UK on a Business Visa
Start Early: To prevent potential delays, you should prepare your application for a UK business visa as soon you can, with all the details of your business plan ready to go. In doing this, you show the British embassy you are prepared for your UK business meetings, and prepared to start your business.
Carefully read instructions: Make sure you have educated yourself on all relevant information provided by the UK government before your UK business visa meeting. This will help you make sure your application is detailed and accurate and you understand the rules and regulations surrounding starting up a business in the UK. It will also make sure that you have done any relevant research required beforehand.
Provide Detailed Support: Be as specific as possible when explaining your financial stability and business plan. This will increase your chances of success. A good business pitch is always ideal.
