The UK has always been an attractive market for international businesses. Many foreign companies set up operations in the UK to reach both the local market and the broader European market. One way foreign companies can enter the UK is through the Representative of an Overseas Business Visa, also known as the sole representative visa.
This visa allows employees of foreign companies to come to the UK and work on behalf of their employer to set up a UK branch or subsidiary. It is also commonly used by foreign media organisations to send reporters to work in the UK.
What are the Requirements for the Company?
For a company to use the Representative of an Overseas Business Visa, there are certain requirements:
- The company must be based outside the UK at the time of application.
- The company must plan to set up a UK branch or subsidiary.
- The company must operate the same business activities in the UK as it does abroad.
What Are the Requirements for the Individual Applying for the Visa?
To apply for the Representative of an Overseas Business Visa, the individual must meet the following conditions:
- The applicant must apply from outside the UK.
- The applicant must have enough funds to support themselves and their dependents in the UK, without relying on public funds.
- The applicant must work full-time for the company.
- Proof of English language proficiency is required if the applicant is from a non-English speaking country.
- The applicant must have a senior position in the company with decision-making authority.
- The applicant must intend to help establish a business presence in the UK.
For foreign media workers, the applicant must be offered a long-term position with the media organisation in the UK.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
To successfully apply for a Representative of an Overseas Business Visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A detailed description of the parent company and its services.
- A letter stating that the company will set up a wholly owned subsidiary or branch in the UK.
- A full job description for the individual applying, including employment contract and salary details.
- Proof of the applicant’s seniority within the company and their authority to make decisions.
- Evidence that the applicant is not acting as a sales agent but is directly employed.
- Proof that the applicant will be working full-time for the company and not for any other business.
- Confirmation that the applicant is not a major shareholder in the company.
What Can You Do with a Representative of an Overseas Business Visa?
With this visa, the individual can:
- Bring their family with them to live in the UK.
- Apply to extend their visa beyond the initial period.
- After 5 years, the individual may be eligible for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), provided certain conditions are met.
What Can’t You Do with a Representative of an Overseas Business Visa?
- You cannot work for yourself or for another UK company.
- You cannot receive public funds.
- If your employer ends the arrangement, you must leave the UK.
- You cannot switch to another visa category, such as a Tier 2 General Visa.
How Can You Extend Your Representative of an Overseas Business Visa?
This visa is initially granted for three years. It can be extended for an additional two years if:
- You are still working for the same company.
- Your role is still focused on establishing the company’s presence in the UK.
- The company is still based outside the UK.
After five years on the visa, you may apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) if you meet the following criteria:
- You meet the English language requirement.
- You pass the Life in the UK Test.
- You meet the residency requirements.
If you have a criminal conviction, it may affect your application for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Why Choose Law and Visas for Your Representative of an Overseas Business Visa?
At Law and Visas, we have successfully helped many clients with their sole representative visa applications. Our experienced immigration solicitors will carefully review your case, gather the necessary documents, and ensure that all forms are filled out correctly. Many visa applications are rejected due to errors or missing documents, but with our help, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your application is processed smoothly.
If you’re considering applying for a Representative of an Overseas Business Visa, contact us today to find out how we can help you with the process.
