Establishing a business presence in the UK via a Sole Representative

Unfortunately, many of these business ideas do not take off, as the red tape surrounding visa restrictions just seems too complicated for many businesses.

However, there is a lesser-known immigration route, outside the points-based immigration system, that is an ideal vehicle to establish a business presence in the UK. This immigration route is called the Sole Representative Visa.

The Sole Representative route allows a company based outside the UK to send one key individual to the UK to establish a UK branch or a solely owned subsidiary in the UK.

Who can qualify as a key individual or sole representative?

The key individual or sole representative of the company has to be a senior employee of the company. The intention must be that this employee must be employed full time with full authority to make operational decisions on behalf of the overseas company.

He or she may be a shareholder in the company based outside the UK, but may not be a majority shareholder.

The overseas company must be outside the United Kingdom. Its headquarters and principal place of business must also be outside the UK.

Are there any investments required?

The biggest attraction in the Sole Representative route can be found in the fact that there are not any large investments required.

There is also no need for the involvement of a UK employer, as per the Tier 2 immigration routes.

Family and spouses of the Sole Representative

The spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner and dependent children will be able to apply to join the Sole Representative in the UK. Dependants will receive the same period of leave as the main applicant, and can work in the UK without restriction.

Another unexpected advantage for dependents of this route, is that if you join the main application, prior to them obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain, then the dependent can obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain together with the main applicant. This is regardless of how long the dependents themselves have held and resided in the UK on their dependent visa.

Reaching the ultimate goal – British Citizenship

The good news is that the Sole Representative does lead to British Citizenship.

The visa is granted for an initial period of three years which then may be extended for an additional period of two years.

At the end of successful completion of a five-year period on this type of visa, the holder can, subject to certain requirements, qualify to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. After another year on this status, one can apply for British citizenship.

Our consultants are dedicated to help persons looking to live and work in the UK to realise their dreams. We carefully look at your goals and circumstances to determine the best way forward.

Contact one of our highly qualified and experienced UK immigration consultants for a personal consultation. Alternatively, please fill out the form below.

Please note that the information in this article does not constitute professional advice. It is provided for general information purposes, without giving any warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied.