The United Kingdom offers several visa routes for entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals. While company formation alone does not grant a visa, having a UK company is often a key requirement or strong supporting evidence for many business-oriented visa categories.
Eteform helps you establish your UK company correctly from day one — so when you're ready to apply for a visa, your business structure is already in place.
Popular UK Visa Routes
Innovator Founder Visa
For individuals with a viable, scalable business idea endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body. A UK company is required for this route.
- Minimum investment: No set minimum (previously £50,000 — removed 2023)
- Endorsement needed: Yes — from a Home Office-approved body
- Path to settlement: 3 years (accelerated) or 5 years
- UK company required: Yes — must be trading in the UK
Skilled Worker Visa
For individuals with a job offer from a Home Office-approved sponsor. If you own a UK company, it can sponsor you if it meets the genuine business and salary requirements.
- Job offer needed: Yes — from a licensed sponsor
- Salary threshold: £26,200+/year (or going rate for the role)
- Path to settlement: 5 years
- Your UK company can sponsor you if the business is genuine and meets requirements
Global Talent Visa
For leaders in academia, arts, science, and digital technology. No job offer or company needed — but a UK presence can strengthen your application.
- Endorsement needed: Yes — from UKRI, Tech Nation, or Arts Council
- Path to settlement: 3 years (priority) or 5 years
- UK company: Not required, but can support credibility
UK Expansion Worker Visa
For overseas businesses looking to establish a presence in the UK. If you have an existing company outside the UK, this route allows key personnel to set up a UK branch.
- Existing overseas company needed: Yes — must be actively trading
- UK entity: Must register a UK branch or subsidiary
- Path to settlement: Not a direct route — switch to another visa category
How Eteform Supports Your Visa Journey
- UK company formation — registered with Companies House, ready for trading
- UK bank account guidance — Wise, Revolut, or high-street banks
- Registered address & service address — professional UK presence
- Accounting & compliance — VAT, PAYE, annual accounts
- Referral to immigration solicitors — we connect you with OISC-registered advisors
