There's no single "business visa" — the routes that apply
Many people search for a "UK business visa", but the UK does not have one route by that name. Instead, there are several routes for people who want to start, run, invest in or expand a business in the UK. Choosing the right one is the key decision, and it depends on whether you are founding a company, being recognised as a leader in your field, employing yourself, or expanding an overseas business.
Note that the old Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) and Tier 1 (Investor) routes are closed to new applicants. A solicitor can help you find the route that genuinely fits today's rules.
The main options at a glance
These are the routes business people most often use. Each has its own eligibility rules and, in some cases, an endorsement or investment requirement – always check GOV.UK for the current detail.
- Innovator Founder – for setting up an innovative, viable and scalable business, backed by an approved endorsing body
- Global Talent – for recognised leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture or digital technology (no employer sponsor needed)
- Self-sponsorship – setting up a UK company that becomes a licensed sponsor and employs you on a Skilled Worker visa
- UK Expansion Worker – for senior staff setting up a UK branch of an overseas business
- Standard Visitor (business) – for short business activities such as meetings and conferences (not for doing paid work)
Choosing the right route
The best route depends on your goals, your funding, and how hands-on you want to be. An entrepreneur with an innovative idea may suit the Innovator Founder route; an established business person may prefer self-sponsorship; a recognised expert may qualify for Global Talent.
Getting this wrong is costly – endorsement, investment and genuineness tests are strict, and a refusal wastes time and fees. We assess your situation honestly before you commit.
How Immigration Lawyers UK helps
Immigration Lawyers UK is a network of SRA-regulated immigration solicitors working on fixed fees, UK-wide. We advise entrepreneurs, investors and businesses on the most realistic route, the endorsement or sponsorship steps, and the evidence needed to succeed.
You get a clear fixed fee agreed up front and a regulated solicitor handling your application from start to finish.
What to do next
If you want to build or grow a business in the UK, the simplest first step is a free, no-obligation assessment of your plans.
Request a free call-back and a solicitor will help you identify the right route and explain what is involved, with no pressure to proceed.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a single UK business visa?
No. The UK uses several routes for business people – including Innovator Founder, Global Talent, self-sponsorship and the Expansion Worker route. The right one depends on your plans and circumstances.
Are the old Entrepreneur and Investor visas still open?
No. The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) and Tier 1 (Investor) routes are closed to new applicants. People setting up or investing in UK businesses now use routes such as Innovator Founder or self-sponsorship.
Can I sponsor my own company to employ me?
In some cases, yes. "Self-sponsorship" involves setting up a genuine UK company that obtains a sponsor licence and employs you on a Skilled Worker visa. It must meet strict genuineness and role requirements – a solicitor can advise whether it is realistic for you.
Can I do business in the UK as a visitor?
You can carry out limited business activities, such as attending meetings or conferences, on a Standard Visitor visa. You cannot do paid work or run a business day to day. For that you need one of the work or business routes.