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.
Official guidance (GOV.UK)
This page is general information, not legal advice, and the immigration rules and fees change. Always check the current position on the primary government sources below before you act.