Overview of the UK Start-up Visa

The Start-Up Visa was designed to support talented overseas individuals to develop their idea for a business in the UK.

It is not a requirement to be a graduate or to have available funds in order to apply for this visa.

The category is for businesses in an early stage of development that can demonstrate high potential. It is permissible for individuals to have already set up their business, but it should not have commenced trading yet (with some exceptions).

The old Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa has been replaced by the Start-up Visa and the Innovator Visa routes.

The visa can only be issued once and cannot be extended. However, it may be possible for eligible individuals to switch to the Innovator Visa category at the end of the term of the two-year visa.

As a high-value visa, the time spent on this visa can be used towards permanent settlement in the UK (also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR)).

One of the primary requirements of the Start-Up Visa is that visa applicants must hold an endorsement from an approved endorsing body.

Another key requirement is that the idea must demonstrate innovation, viability, and scalability.