Business and investor routes to the UK
The UK welcomes entrepreneurs, investors and skilled business people, but there is no single "business visa". Instead, you choose from a range of routes depending on whether you are founding a company, expanding an overseas business, investing, or being recognised as a leader in your field.
Immigration Lawyers UK is a network of SRA-regulated immigration solicitors who help you identify the right route and present a strong application, on a clear fixed fee.
The main business routes
Each route below has its own rules, and some require an endorsement or a genuine, viable business plan. Always check GOV.UK for the current detail, and take advice before committing time or money.
- Innovator Founder – for an innovative, viable and scalable new business, backed by an approved endorsing body
- Global Talent – for leaders and potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture or digital technology
- Self-sponsorship – setting up a UK company that sponsors you on a Skilled Worker visa
- UK Expansion Worker (Global Business Mobility) – for setting up a UK branch of an overseas business
- Scale-up Worker – for joining a fast-growing UK business
- Standard Visitor – for short business activities such as meetings and conferences
How we help businesses and individuals
Whether you are an individual founder or a company moving people into the UK, our network matches you with a solicitor who handles business immigration regularly. We advise on the most realistic route, sponsor licences, endorsements and the evidence needed to succeed.
Because the genuineness and funding tests are strict, honest early advice saves wasted fees and delays.
What to do next
If you are planning to start, invest in or expand a business in the UK, start with a free, no-obligation assessment.
Request a free call-back and a regulated solicitor will help you find the right route and explain the fixed fee before any work begins.
Frequently asked questions
Which business visa is right for me?
It depends on your goals and funding. Founders often suit the Innovator Founder route; established business people may prefer self-sponsorship; recognised experts may qualify for Global Talent. A solicitor can confirm the best fit after a free assessment.
Do I need a lot of money to invest?
It varies by route, and the old Investor visa is closed. Some routes focus on the strength and viability of your business rather than a set investment sum. Check GOV.UK for current requirements, or ask us to explain what applies.
Can my family come with me?
On most business and work routes, your partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants. The exact rules depend on the route you choose.