A Complete Guide to the UK Sole Representative Visa

What is the Sole Representative Visa?
The Sole Representative Visa is a UK immigration route designed for employees of overseas businesses looking to establish a commercial presence in the UK. This visa allows the representative to set up a branch or wholly-owned subsidiary for their company, providing a pathway for business expansion into the UK market.

No Sponsorship Required: The visa is employer-backed but does not require a sponsor license.
Long-Term Residency Pathway: Leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Family Inclusion: Dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18) can join the visa holder with full rights to work and study.

Table of Contents

Must be headquartered and operating outside the UK.
Should have no existing active branch, subsidiary, or representation in the UK.
Must intend to establish a UK branch or wholly-owned subsidiary that replicates its core business activities.

Valid passport.
Evidence of employment (e.g., contract, job description).
Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS with a minimum CEFR Level A1).
Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable).

Business registration documents.
Financial accounts showing profitability and operational status.
A letter detailing the business’s intention to expand into the UK and the applicant’s role in the expansion.

Gather required documents from both the applicant and the overseas business, ensuring compliance with UKVI requirements.

Complete the application form on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
Pay the application fee.

Processing typically takes 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK.

Costs Associated with the Sole Representative Visa
| Expense | Cost (£) |
|——————————–|————–|
| Application Fee | 719 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | 624 per year |
| Biometric Enrollment Fee | 19.20 |

Initially granted for 3 years.
Extendable for an additional 2 years, provided the business remains active and operational.
After 5 years, the visa holder can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Establish a UK Presence: Pave the way for your business to expand into the UK market.
Flexibility: Operate without requiring sponsorship or an existing UK branch.
Residency Pathway: Work towards settlement and eventual British citizenship.

Solution: Provide comprehensive documentation, including business plans, financial accounts, and market research.

Solution: Ensure the applicant does not own the majority of shares in the company.

Switching to a Sole Representative Visa
Switching to this visa type is not permitted within the UK. Applications must be made from outside the UK.

Can my family join me on a Sole Representative Visa?
Yes, dependents can join you and have full rights to work and study in the UK.
Can I switch employers while on this visa?
No, the visa ties you to the overseas business you represent.
Does the visa allow me to start my own business in the UK?
No, the visa only permits you to represent your overseas company.
How long does it take to process the visa?
The standard processing time is 3 weeks, but it may vary depending on circumstances.
Does this visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes, after 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Can the company have other UK operations?
No, the business must not have an existing active branch or subsidiary in the UK.

Conclusion
The Sole Representative Visa is an excellent opportunity for overseas businesses to expand into the UK market. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing thorough documentation, and following the application process, you can successfully establish your company’s presence in the UK while paving the way for long-term residency.