Sole Representative Visa
The Sole Representative Scheme previously allowed business individuals or
foreign investors to establish a UK branch or subsidiary of an overseas company.
Important:
This route is now closed to all new applicants. However, existing visa holders may still be eligible to
apply for an extension or settlement, provided they meet the relevant criteria.
Overview
Representative of an Overseas Business
The Sole Representative Visa, officially known as the Overseas Representative of Business route, allowed foreign business individuals or investors to open a UK branch or subsidiary of their existing overseas company.
This route is now closed for new applicants, but those already holding this visa may still be able to apply for an extension or settlement if they meet the criteria.
There are several conditions and eligibility points that applicants needed to meet. However, working with a skilled UK immigration firm can make the process smoother and increase the chances of approval.
Even though the process was detailed, this visa came with valuable advantages: it did not follow the UK’s points-based immigration system, was open to companies of any size, and offered a path to grow your business in the UK. You could hire staff, and even apply for a sponsor licence to bring in overseas workers.
If granted, the visa allowed an initial stay of three years, which could be extended to five years, and then lead to an application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Eligibility Criteria for Sole Representative Visa
The applicant must be a senior-level employee of an overseas business that does not already have a branch or subsidiary in the UK. Only one Sole Representative visa is allowed per company.
The business must have its headquarters and main operations based outside the UK, and the applicant must have been hired from outside the UK.
The applicant must hold full authority to make key operational decisions on behalf of the business.
The UK branch or subsidiary must carry out the same line of work as the parent company overseas.
Applicants must not hold more than 50% of the company’s shares and cannot be the majority shareholder.
The applicant must be employed full-time and demonstrate that they can support themselves and any dependents without relying on public funds.
Applicants must also prove they meet the required level of English language ability, equivalent to CEFR level A1.
Top Reasons to Choose HARRIS Legal Solicitors for Your Legal Needs
The Sole Representative visa route is detailed and requires applicants to follow strict guidelines around documentation, timelines, and legal requirements. HARRIS LEGAL Immigration Lawyers have a strong record of success in helping clients secure Sole Representative visas at the initial application stage, as well as with extensions and settlement applications.
HARRIS Legal is known for offering clear, professional guidance on UK Visa matters and is trusted by many, with over 200 positive reviews on Google. Get in touch with our friendly, dedicated team today to start your Sole Representative Visa application or to extend your current UK visa.