Migrant entrepreneurs play a crucial role in the UK economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing significantly to economic growth. However, many talented startup founders find themselves stuck in traditional jobs rather than launching their own ventures due to stringent visa requirements and the limited selection of applicants for Global talent visa and innovator founder visa.
But there are some other ways for genuine startups and as per Nara Solicitors, a company owner recently secured a self sponsorship visa through the self-sponsorship route, demonstrating a viable pathway for entrepreneurs to expand their business operations in the UK.
Here is the full story
The applicant in this case is a 100% shareholder in a startup specialising in international recruitment, IT, and digital marketing. Despite facing several potential hurdles due to unique circumstances, the entrepreneur’s application was processed efficiently and swiftly, marking a significant achievement in the realm of UK immigration for business owners.
Background and Challenges
The entrepreneur already held a Skilled Worker Visa but sought to transition to self-sponsorship to better support the expansion of their startup. Self-sponsorship allows business owners to sponsor their own visa applications through their companies, a relatively new and complex area within UK immigration law. The applicant’s startup had to meet several stringent requirements to qualify for a sponsor license, including demonstrating genuine business operations, financial stability, and compliance with UK immigration regulations.
One of the major challenges was the applicant’s existing status as a Skilled Worker Visa holder, which could complicate the new application process. Additionally, as a 100% shareholder, there were potential concerns regarding the legitimacy and operational scale of the startup, which needed to be addressed comprehensively in the application.
Application Process
The process began with the entrepreneur applying for a sponsor license for their startup. This step involved extensive documentation to prove the company’s viability and readiness to comply with sponsor duties. Key documents included business plans, financial statements, and evidence of current and potential business activities. The meticulous preparation aimed to mitigate any doubts about the company’s ability to operate sustainably and legally sponsor its owner.
Within five working days, the sponsor license was approved, reflecting the robustness of the application and the startup’s readiness to support its owner’s visa. This quick turnaround was crucial as it allowed the subsequent visa application to proceed without delay.
Visa Approval
Following the approval of the sponsor license, the entrepreneur promptly applied for Skilled Worker leave to remain. This application required detailed information about the role within the company, salary details, and the company’s operational structure. The application also had to clearly justify why the role was necessary for the company’s growth and how it aligned with the requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Remarkably, the Skilled Worker leave to remain was approved within one working day, highlighting the effectiveness of the application and the preparedness of all supporting documents. This swift approval underscored the possibility and feasibility of self-sponsorship for company owners under the right circumstances.
Impact and Implications
This successful case sets a significant precedent for other entrepreneurs considering self-sponsorship as a route to secure their stay in the UK while growing their businesses. It demonstrates that with the right preparation and legal guidance, navigating the complexities of self-sponsorship can be efficient and successful.
The entrepreneur’s case also highlights the importance of thorough documentation and a clear demonstration of the company’s operational and financial health. It serves as a reminder that while the self-sponsorship route is viable, it requires meticulous preparation and a comprehensive understanding of immigration laws and regulations.
Role of Legal Guidance
The success of this application was made possible with the expert assistance of Nara Solicitors, a legal firm specializing in immigration law. Nara Solicitors played a crucial role in preparing and submitting the applications, ensuring that all requirements were met and potential issues were addressed proactively. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of UK immigration law and their strategic approach to the application process were instrumental in securing the approvals swiftly and efficiently.
Nara Solicitors provided comprehensive support throughout the process, from initial consultation to the final approval. They assisted in gathering and preparing all necessary documentation, offering strategic advice on presenting the company’s case most effectively. Their role was pivotal in achieving the successful outcome and demonstrating that self-sponsorship is a feasible option for business owners.
The successful self-sponsorship and subsequent Skilled Worker Visa approval for a company owner in the UK highlight a promising pathway for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations.
This case demonstrates that with proper preparation, thorough documentation, and expert legal guidance, self-sponsorship can be a swift and effective route. Nara Solicitors’ involvement was crucial in navigating this complex process, underscoring the importance of professional legal support in immigration matters.
This precedent paves the way for more entrepreneurs to consider self-sponsorship as a viable option for securing their future in the UK.