Self-sponsorship is a novel concept that few people are aware of, but it could be the right option for entrepreneurs that are unable to pursue the more well-known pathways to international expansion in the United Kingdom.
Businesses wishing to expand into the United Kingdom now have very few choices following the closure of the Investor visa route. The UK Global Business Mobility and the Innovator visa are presently the two most popular options. Both, however, have some limitations that do not make them suitable for everyone. While the majority of shareholders are not eligible for the Sole Representative visa due to its lengthy list of criteria and conditions, individuals with innovative enterprises are eligible for the Innovator visa. Because of these limitations, a large percentage of medium and small business owners are unable to operate.
However, the Self-sponsorship visa can provide a suitable solution to this problem.
Self Sponsorship visa requirements
The requirements for applying for a Self-sponsorship visa are pretty straightforward. All you need is a sincere desire to start a business and run an active commercial enterprise in the United Kingdom. This option is open to anyone with significant experience in the field in which they intend to operate, as long as they have the funds to sustain their expansion. In order to meet the UK government’s standards, candidates must also have a strong command of the English language.
Self Sponsorship visa application process
The Self-sponsorship visa application is a three-step process. Smaller business owners can form or buy a company in the UK, register it with the UK government body that distributes visa sponsorship licences, and then apply for a Skilled Worker visa using the licence.
- The first stage is to set up a UK business and apply for a sponsor licence, which permits you to sponsor an overseas worker on a Skilled Worker visa. You can then go ahead and employ yourself as the expert worker for your company. You will effectively be supporting yourself in order to come and work for yourself. The technique is completely legal and adheres to the rules.
- Once the UK company is up and running, the next stage is to apply to the UK Home Office for a Skilled Worker sponsor licence. A company must meet certain criteria in order to be successful. The company, for example, must have the necessary rules and procedures in place. To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended that the self-sponsorship visa application be completed under the supervision and guidance of a UK legal practitioner.
- After your UK company has been granted a Sponsor licence, you can move on to the next step, which involves hiring yourself through your own company and applying for a skilled worker visa based on the job offer. To be qualified for a Skilled Worker visa, you must meet certain standards, including English language proficiency, wage, and educational level. As long as you complete these requirements, you will be able to work in your UK company and benefit from the country’s growing economy.
Benefits of a Self-Sponsorship Visa
A self-sponsorship visa is a great alternative to conventional UK visas because it has fewer requirements and application processes. It not only gives foreign companies access to the British SME market, but it also gives business owners the possibility of becoming British citizens. The type of business that can be operated in the United Kingdom under this plan is unrestricted. Furthermore, there is no minimum or maximum investment required to form your company; you can own 100% of your UK company and serve as its director.
Opportunities for residency and citizenship
When applying for a Self-sponsorship visa, many business owners may wonder if it would eventually lead to British citizenship. Yes, the answer is yes. After five years, you may be eligible for residency in the United Kingdom, and after six years, you may be eligible for citizenship. In fact, you are permitted to bring your spouses and children under the age of 18.
How to apply for a Sponsor Licence
Previously known as a Tier 2 visa, a sponsor licence allows UK-based businesses to attract talented personnel from all over the world. Most other visa classifications, such as Tier 2 and Tier 4 Student visas, can be switched into the Skilled Worker visa from within the UK. Once approved, the licence will be valid for four years with the option to renew it.
The UK-based employer must apply to the Home Office and pay the relevant fees in order to receive a visa sponsorship licence in the United Kingdom. The Home Office will only provide a sponsor licence to an organisation that can show that the roles they’re recruiting for, as well as the workers they’re planning to sponsor, meet the requirements. To meet the organization’s onerous sponsorship compliance duties, HR measures must be in place. Your establishment may be inspected by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to check that it is suitable.
Feel free to reach out to us for help
Overseas people are legally allowed to open enterprises in the United Kingdom, but they must do it with the help of a licenced UK immigration counsel, as there are particular standards to meet.
Although the self-sponsorship approach is not well-known, our expert immigration lawyers at A Y & J Solicitors have been using it for over 13 years. Our multi-award-winning, specialised law practice guarantees you complete ‘hand-holding’ support, resulting in peace of mind, assurance, and a superior outcome. Our services encompass all aspects of sponsorship.
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