UK Self-Sponsorship & Entrepreneurship
The United Kingdom offers a compelling mix of history, cosmopolitan cities, and a powerful, globally connected economy, making it a highly attractive destination for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. The UK lifestyle is characterised by a rich cultural heritage, excellent public services, and a competitive but rewarding business environment, particularly in finance, technology, and creative industries. Self-Sponsorship refers to the legal strategy of establishing or acquiring a UK company which then sponsors the individual for a Skilled Worker visa. This route allows professionals and business owners to control their employment and long-term career path in the UK. The UK offers a vibrant, diverse lifestyle with historic culture with modern life, and excellent worker rights, including generous paid leave. Its robust, service-driven economy is the world’s fifth largest, heavily relying on key sectors like Finance, Technology, and Creative Industries.
Available Visa Options
Skilled Worker Visa (Self-Sponsored Route)
The Self-Sponsored Route is a strategy, not a separate visa category, where a professional establishes or acquires a UK company to serve as their sponsor. To proceed, the company must first successfully obtain a Sponsor Licence from the Home Office, proving it is a genuine, active business with a legitimate job opening. The role sponsored must meet the required skill level and the prevailing salary threshold currently £41,700 or the going rate, whichever is higher. Successfully obtaining this visa provides a direct and reliable pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a continuous period of 5 years of residency.
Innovator Founder Visa Route
The Innovator Founder Visa targets entrepreneurs with a business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable, and genuinely new to the UK market. A mandatory requirement is securing an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body, which evaluates both the business plan and its subsequent progress. This visa offers an initial 3-year stay and features a fast-track pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after the same 3-year period, contingent upon meeting specific business performance milestones. Crucially, while no minimum investment is legally mandated, applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds appropriate for their business plan and that they will be a key part of the business's day-to-day management.
Perks of Living in the UK
Eligibility Requirements
- The main applicant must be 18 years of age or above
- Demonstrate Competent English proficiency level at CEFR Level B1 equivalent to IELTS 4.0 in each band.
- Have sufficient personal funds to support yourself and dependents upon arrival unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
- For the Skilled Worker self-sponsorship route, your company must have a valid sponsor licence, and the role must meet the minimum skill and salary thresholds.
- For the Innovator Founder visa, you must have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea that is endorsed by an approved body.
- The business must be genuine, and you must demonstrate an active role in its operation.
FAQs
What is the difference between Citizenship by Investment & Residency by Investment?
CBI provides immediate, direct citizenship and a second passport without a mandatory physical stay or travel requirement. RBI grants legal residency rights, often requiring a minimal stay, and may offer a pathway to eventual citizenship after five to seven years.
Which immigration path is right for me, Skilled Migration, Business, or Investment?
The right path depends on your goals. Skilled Migration focuses on your professional background and country’s needs. Business/Investment is for those with capital, looking to invest funds or establish a business and impact in a new country.
Do you offer Study Consultancy and guide students for a post-degree settlement too?
Yes, our Study Abroad service includes guidance on selecting programs and countries that offer clear post-graduation work permit options, setting you up for a future Skilled Immigration application.
How long does the entire immigration or investment process normally take?
Processing timele vary significantly by program you choose CBI programs can take as little as 3–6 months. Residency and Skilled Migration can take from 6 months to 2+ years, depending on the country’s government processing times and application complexity.
Can I include my family members in my application?
Yes, the majority of Citizenship, Residency, and Skilled Immigration programs allow the inclusion of immediate family members, such as a spouse and dependent children, often for an additional fee per person. But process can vary from country to country as per their government policies.