Sole Representative Visas
The Sole Representative of an Overseas Business Visa enables overseas businesses to establish a branch or subsidiary in the UK and to send a key worker to conduct business on their behalf.
Awards and Accreditations
Sole Representative of an Overseas Business Visa
Overseas companies who wish to establish a presence, or expand their business within the UK, can achieve this by sending a senior employee to the UK using the Sole Representative Visa.
General Requirements for the Overseas Business
- Must be a genuine commercial enterprise
- Must continue to trade overseas.
- The company’s HQ and principal place of business must remain outside the UK.
- The UK branch or subsidiary must operate in the same type of business activity as the overseas business.
Sole Representative Visa Criteria
The Sole Representative must be a senior employee recruited outside the UK and have extensive related industry experience. The Sole Representative must have full authority to make all operational decisions on behalf of the overseas company in the UK.
The Sole Representative must not be the majority shareholder in the parent company. Shareholdings in excess of 35% in the parent company are likely to be scrutinized rigorously.
Sole Representative Visa Duration
If successful, the Sole Representative and their accompanying family members will be granted a visa for 3 years and 4 months.
This visa may be extended for a further two years provided the sole representative is still required by the overseas business and the business is commercially viable. The Sole Representative may apply for permanent residence after 5 years residence in the UK.
Advantages
- Access to the UK market
- Fast processing times – between 1 and 30 days
- No minimum investment requirement.
- Ability to include dependents – spouse/partner and children under 18.
- Secure British Citizenship after 6 years lawful residence in the UK.
- Access to the UK’s world-class health care and education systems.
- Once the new UK entity has started trading, they may apply for a Sponsor License. Once a Sponsor License has been granted they may be able to bring other key staff members to the UK through the Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer route.
Our Services
Sterling Immigration will communicate your business challenges persuasively through a professionally prepared business plan demonstrating how the Sole Representative will establish the UK Branch and the benefits this will bring to the UK. We will guide you through the copious requirements of the UK immigration rules and draft persuasive legal submissions in support of the application to ensure a successful outcome.
Please schedule a consultation to learn more.
Related Content: UK Skilled Worker Visas
UK Immigration Frequently Asked Questions
Our team of UK immigration lawyers will handle your case promptly and diligently until you achieve the desired outcome. Your dedicated UK immigration attorney will provide you with an estimated processing period for your case and keep you informed through each stage of the UK visa process. To expedite the processing of your application, we will ensure that your forms are meticulously completed and that you provide sufficient supporting documentation.
However, please note that the UKVI processing time depends on several factors including the volume of cases the UKVI is receiving and whether there are any priority programs where UKVI gives precedence to applicants from war torn countries or countries affected by natural disasters.
We can offer a fast-track service if your application is time sensitive. Please schedule a consultation to learn more about this package and all the services provided by our immigration lawyers.
Hiring one of our qualified UK immigration attorneys can offer several benefits when applying for a visa. Here are some of the advantages:
- Expertise and Knowledge: Our UK immigration attorneys specialize in all aspects of UK immigration law and are well-versed in the complexities of the UK visa application process. They stay updated with the latest changes in immigration laws and regulations, ensuring that your application is accurate and compliant.
- Personalized Advice: Our immigration attorneys can assess your specific circumstances, understand your immigration goals, and provide tailored advice based on your situation. They can determine the most suitable visa category for you, explain the requirements, and help you gather the necessary supporting documents.
- Application Preparation: Immigration lawyers can assist you in completing and organizing your visa application. They have experience in preparing the necessary paperwork, filling out forms correctly, and ensuring that all required documentation is included. This can help reduce the chances of errors or omissions that could lead to delays or a rejected application.
- Increased Approval Chances: With their expertise, our qualified UK immigration lawyers can identify any potential weaknesses or issues in your application and address them proactively. They can highlight your qualifications, skills, and experiences effectively to demonstrate your eligibility for the visa. This can increase your chances of a successful application.
- Legal Representation: If your visa application is complex or encounters challenges, having one of our skilled immigration lawyers on your side can be invaluable. They can communicate with the UK Home Office or immigration authorities on your behalf, prepare detailed and persuasive legal submissions and provide guidance throughout the process.
Time and Stress Management: Navigating the UK visa application process can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the requirements. By hiring one of our immigration lawyers, you can offload the paperwork, legal aspects, and administrative tasks to them, allowing you to focus on other important matters.
Our experienced UK immigration attorneys provide specialist legal advice and representation on all aspects of UK immigration law, to individuals and businesses. Our services can be classified as:
- Initial Immigration Consultations
- Immigration Application Preparation and Submission (Full Representation)
- Immigration Application Checking Service
- Sponsor License Applications and Corporate Immigration Services
Regardless of the service you require, you can be assured that you will have direct access to a specialist UK immigration lawyer who has an in-depth understanding of UK immigration law and procedure. Our flexible services are delivered professionally and are tailored to your individual situation. Please schedule a consultation to learn more about our cost-effective UK immigration solutions and the services provided by our immigration lawyers.