Q & A

 

STARTUP VISA UK

Q
What is the UK Startup Visa?

A

The UK Startup Visa is a visa category which allows an applicant to set up an early stage, high potential business in the UK, subject to UK visa requirements being met.


Q
Who can apply for the UK Startup Visa?

A

The following can apply for the UK Startup Visa:-
• Citizen of any country outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) & Switzerland.
• Applicant over 18 years of age who meets all UK visa requirements.
• Family members of the main applicant.


Q
What are the “eligibility requirements” for the main applicant?

A

The following are the “eligibility requirements” for the main applicant:-

• Applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must meet the English Language Requirements.
• Must be able to prove that he/she has enough personal savings to support themselves & family members (if any).
• Before applying, must have their business or business idea assessed by an approved endorsing body.


Q
What kind of business can one set up?

A

Applicants must set up a business which is innovative, viable & scalable, and is supported by an approved endorsing body in the UK.


Q
What amount does an applicant have to invest?

A

The Start Up Visa Program UK does not specify any minimum investment amount, although applicants must prove that they will spend a majority of their time working for their start-up business in the UK


Q
Do I need to show any business experience?

A

The applicant must show that they have the necessary skills, knowledge, experience & market awareness to successfully run the proposed business.


Q
Do I need to show English Language ability?

A

Yes, applicants must satisfy the prescribed English Language Requirement to be eligible to apply.


Q
Do I need to show ‘Settlement Funds’ to maintain my stay in the UK?

A

Yes, at least at the minimum prescribed levels.


Q
Are family members (dependents) allowed to apply along with the main applicant?

A

Yes, the following family members may apply for a UK Startup Visa along with the main applicant :-
• Your husband, wife or partner, and
• Your child under 18 years of age.


Q
For how long does the UK Startup Visa allow us to stay in the UK?

A

2 years. You cannot apply for an extension of this visa or directly apply for settlement (PR) in the UK. However, you can progress towards applying for an Innovator Visa UK.


Q
How long does it take for the UK Startup Visa to be processed?

A

Approximately 8 weeks from date of application. However, it can take longer:-
• If supporting documents need to be verified.
• If you need to attend an interview.
• If personal circumstances cause a delay in a decision.
Further, the processing times may vary depending upon your country of citizenship & residence.


Q
How can Migratesmart® help us?

A

Our partnerships with highly reputed & leading global law firms, in all countries that we operate in or provide services for, enables us to provide end-to-end solutions & services to our clients. We can take care of every aspect of the UK Startup Visa process & ensure you derive maximum benefit from out expert knowledge & advice.