According to the Independent, the number of super rich applying for Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visas rose by 46% in 2017. However, major changes have been announced this month to crack down on what the Home Office describe as “low quality” entrepreneurs who add very little to the economy. It is something that was expected given the media coverage surrounding the HMRC tax alteration allegations which many migrants had the bad experience of undergoing in the last few years.
The Government has now announced two new visa routes for entrepreneurs:
The start-up visa – this category is for those seeking to establish a business in the UK for the first time. Applicants will have an “innovative, viable and scalable” business idea which is supported by an endorsing body. The start-up visa is an expanded version of the Tier 1 graduate entrepreneur visa, which allowed universities to endorse international students.
The innovator visa – this category is for more experienced business people seeking to establish a business in the UK. Applicants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea which is supported by an endorsing body. With some exceptions, applicants will also have funding to invest in their business.
The key requirement under both these categories is that individuals will need to obtain an endorsement from a relevant body. These bodies will include:
- UK higher education institutions which meet specific requirements, and
- organisations with a proven track record of supporting UK entrepreneurs. Such bodies will need to be approved by the Home Office.
The changes appear to be ill planned given that there is currently no real information as to who these awarding bodies are. One such potential endorsing body is Tech Nation announced on their website:
“In September 2019, Tech Nation will begin processing endorsement applications on behalf of digital technology entrepreneurs for both of these new routes, building upon our successful operation of the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa and extending our support for international entrepreneurs wishing to establish their tech business in the UK.”
I sincerely hope the Government has plans for endorsing bodies to sponsor those migrants hoping to apply in the coming months prior to September 2019!
How can Buckingham Legal Associates help?
As you can see things are about to get even more complicated. The Government’s emphasis is on “good quality” entrepreneurs and therefore there is a demand for high standards in the arena. From experience, I am aware that ill-prepared applications can be costly not only in respect of time but also with regard to potential future applications which no doubt are put at risk.
At Buckingham Legal Associates we are able to advise you about each step of the application process. We can guide you in ensuring that your application is successful. We will initially conduct a full assessment of your circumstances to ensure that there are no gaps. If you meet the requirements provisionally, we can facilitate your application and help you navigate through the rules.
Would you like further advice?
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For the best expert legal advice and outcome on your immigration application contact Buckingham Legal Associates on 0203 006 2742 or contact us online at www.buckslegal.co.uk.
Naila Khan is an experienced Senior Immigration Advocate. She regularly advises clients on complex immigration issues.
If you would like immigration advice please contact us!