United Kingdom
If you’re not a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland and wish to enter the UK as a representative of an overseas business, you can apply for this opportunity. The application process can start up to 3 months prior to your intended travel date. If you apply from outside the UK, a decision should typically be reached within 3 weeks. Once granted, your initial visa allows you to stay in the UK for a period of 3 years, and it may be possible to extend it for an additional 2 years. After residing in the UK for 5 years, you become eligible to apply for permanent settlement in the country.
Basic Requirements:
- The sole representative of an overseas company planning to set up a UK branch or a wholly-owned subsidiary for an overseas parent company.
- Hold a senior position within the company (but not be a major shareholder) and have full authority to make decisions on its behalf.
- Have extensive related industry experience and knowledge.
- You may also be eligible if the company has a legal entity in the UK that does not employ staff or transact business.
- If your company has been working to establish a UK branch or subsidiary, but it is not yet set up, you can replace a previous sole representative.
- As an employee of an overseas newspaper, news agency, or broadcasting organization, you can come to the UK if you’re being posted here on a long-term assignment.
- A current passport or other valid travel identification.
- Evidence that you can support yourself and any dependents during your trip, for example, bank statements or pay slips for the last 6 months.
- Details of where you’ll be staying during your stay.
- Proof that you meet the English requirement.
- Your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test.
- Your job description, employment contract, and salary details.
- A letter confirming you’re familiar with the company and have the power to make operational decisions.
- Will be working full time for the company for the duration of your stay and will not carry out any other work