For those seeking a better environment for business and living, the UK offers an attractive option. Establishing your own company and working as a skilled professional within it can be a gateway to a brighter future. This method, known as self-sponsorship visa route, allows you to come to the UK as a skilled worker for the company you form. Let's explore the key steps and requirements involved in this process.
1. Initial Investment and Financial Planning
Starting this journey requires a well-planned financial strategy. It is recommended to have at least £40,000 available for a family of three. This amount is intended to cover:
Government and related Fees: Necessary for various applications and registrations.
Legal Fees: To ensure all processes are legally compliant and smooth.
Initial Operating Expenses: To sustain your business and personal expenses for the first two months.
Having a solid financial foundation is crucial for a successful start, ensuring you can manage initial costs without financial strain.
2. Forming Your UK Company
Forming your company in the UK involves several critical steps:
Choosing a Company Name: Select a unique name for your company and register it with Companies House.
Appointing a Director and an Authorising Officer: Designate a British or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holder as your director and Authorising Officer. This person will be the primary contact with UK authorities.
Compliance with Laws & Legal Requirements: Ensure you comply with all UK legal requirements, including obtaining necessary licenses and adhering to local laws and regulations.
Each step requires careful attention to detail and adherence to legal standards to establish your business properly.
3. Setting up a Bank Account for your UK Company
Opening a commercial bank account is a crucial step in your business setup. This account will be essential for:
Managing Finances: Handling your business transactions and financial records.
Receiving Payments: Processing payments from clients and customers.
Demonstrating Financial Stability: Showing financial institutions and authorities that your business is legitimate and stable.
Note that a payment service provider account is not sufficient. A commercial bank account is necessary for full financial functionality.
4. English Language Requirement
To operate effectively in the UK, you must demonstrate at least B1 level of English proficiency.
Meeting this requirement is a must and a vital part of this method.
5. Working as a Skilled Worker
After completing the process for getting sponsorship license and Certificate of Sponsorship you can start your application to come to UK as a Skilled Worker. As the main applicant, you will work for your own company in a skilled worker role. This You can also work up to 20 hours (might change per week in another job with certain limitations, provided it is in the same sector as your main employment. This flexibility can provide additional financial stability and professional experience.
This dual role allows you to focus on your business while exploring other professional opportunities within your field.
6. Family and Dependents
One of the significant advantages of this route is the ability to bring your dependents to the UK. This includes:
- Spouse or Partner: They can work in any job (usually cannot work as sportsman) , providing additional financial stability and professional opportunities.
- Children: They can access the UK’s education system and integrate into the community.
This flexibility enhances your family's overall experience and supports their integration into UK life, making the transition smoother and more rewarding.
7. Legal Assistance and Compliance
Throughout the process, it is advisable to seek legal assistance. Experienced lawyers can help with:
Incorporation Procedures: Guiding you through the process of setting up your company.
Ensuring Compliance: Making sure your business meets all UK legal requirements.
Navigating Complexities: Assisting with any issues related to self-sponsorship and ongoing compliance.
Regular legal consultations during the first five years are crucial for maintaining compliance and addressing any legal issues that may arise.
8. Long-Term Prospects of Self-sponsorship visa route
Self-sponsorship offers significant long-term benefits:
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): After working in the UK for five years, you will be eligible to apply for ILR, allowing you to live and work in the UK without time restrictions.
British Citizenship: After one year with IRL, from the sixth year, you can apply for British citizenship, solidifying your status and opening up further opportunities.
These milestones provide stability and security for you and your family, ensuring a permanent place in the UK. It is important to note that, IRL and Citizenship is not an automatic right and it is merely a right to apply, therefore there is no guarantee that this method provide grants IRL or British Citizenship in any way.
Self-sponsorship offers a unique and viable path for skilled professionals looking to relocate their business and life to the UK. By forming your own company, investing wisely, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements, you can establish a successful enterprise and build a new future in the UK. This method not only allows you to contribute to the UK economy but also provides a stable and enriching environment for you and your family. With the right preparation and legal support, the journey to becoming a skilled worker in your own UK-based company can be a rewarding and life-changing experience.
