The UK has always been a popular destination for Indian businesses looking to expand globally. Every year, more and more Indian companies are opening offices in the UK, seeing it as a key location for international growth. According to the India Meets Britain Tracker published by Grant Thornton UK LLP, there are now 850 Indian companies in the UK, generating £41.2 billion in revenue and employing over 110,000 people.
As India’s economy continues to grow, more Indian businesses are looking to invest in the UK, making it a strategic market for expansion. One of the best ways for Indian businesses to establish a presence in the UK is through the Sole Representative Visa.
Let’s take a closer look at the Sole Representative Visa and how it can help Indian businesses expand in the UK.
What is the Sole Representative Visa?
The Sole Representative Visa allows Indian businesses to send a senior employee to the UK to set up a branch or subsidiary of their business. This visa is designed for businesses that do not yet have a presence in the UK and want to establish one.
The visa allows the representative to stay in the UK for up to 3 years to research the UK market and grow their business. After the initial period, the visa can be extended for another 2 years. After this time, the representative can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing them to stay in the UK permanently.
How Can Indian Businesses Expand to the UK?
The UK is a top destination for Indian businesses, especially in the Technology and Telecom sectors, which make up around 38% of Indian companies in the UK. If you’re an Indian business looking to set up in the UK, here’s how the Sole Representative Visa can help:
1. Send a Sole Representative to the UK
The first step is to appoint a senior executive from your company to be the sole representative in the UK. This person will be responsible for setting up and running the UK branch or subsidiary. They will also make business decisions on behalf of the company in the UK.
2. Research the Market and Plan for Growth
Once the sole representative is in the UK, the visa allows them to stay for 3 years to research and understand the UK market. This will help the company plan how to grow its services and products in the UK. During this time, the representative can set up a branch or subsidiary of the business.
3. Stay and Expand the Business
After 3 years, the representative can apply to extend their visa for another 2 years. During this time, they can continue building the business in the UK. After 5 years, the representative may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing them to stay in the UK permanently.
It’s important to note that while on this visa, the representative will be responsible for their own living expenses, as they cannot access public funds. Additionally, they cannot set up a separate business or engage in other business activities in the UK outside of their company’s expansion.
Can a Sole Representative Visa Holder Bring Family Members?
Yes, a sole representative can bring their dependents to the UK. This includes:
- Spouse or partner (including same-sex partners)
- Children under 18 years old
Dependants can live and work in the UK, and their visa will be tied to the sole representative’s stay in the UK.
How to Apply for the Sole Representative Visa from India
To apply for the Sole Representative Visa, you and your company will need to submit several documents to prove that your business qualifies. The UK authorities will assess these documents as part of the visa application process. If the application is rejected, you can apply for an Administrative Review or Judicial Review to challenge the decision.
How Law and Visas Can Help
Applying for a Sole Representative Visa can be complex, but with the right legal support, the process can be much smoother. Law and Visas is a team of experienced solicitors who can guide you through each step of the application, ensuring that all documents are in order and increasing the chances of your success.
If you are an Indian business looking to expand into the UK, the Sole Representative Visa could be the perfect option. With the right guidance and a clear strategy, your business can establish a successful presence in one of the world’s leading markets. Law and Visas can help you navigate the process and ensure that you make the most of this opportunity.
