The innovative business culture of the UK always calls for businessmen and entrepreneurs from all over the world to initiate business startups.
Besides, the UK offers a thriving economy and world-class infrastructure and facilities for different businesses to grow.
So, the people residing in outside countries remain interested to come and settle their business in the UK.
But, the only problem that comes in their way is the UK business visa.
Yes, they have a prejudice that it’s hard to get a Visa. Also, many of them are unaware of the entire process of getting a business visa for the UK.
Are you one of those who have the same thinking?
Then, this article is for you! It’s because this write-up will help you to keep your prejudice aside and educate yourself about the UK business visa-getting process.
Here, you will know everything in detail. We will tell you about the basic requirements of applying for the visa.
Also, you will know some tips from us for getting the visa successfully done.
It will not only make your journey to the UK for business establishment smooth. Also, it will boost your confidence in starting the business. So, are you in for the same?
Then, let’s proceed!
UK Business Visa – Eligibility Criteria for Applying for It
- Your purpose for visiting the United Kingdom must be related to business. For example, the reason for visiting must be either attending meetings or conferences. Also, it may be beginning a business startup, or seeking training in the UK, etc.
- Your business activities must be such that they are approved by the UK government. For example, you might claim a visa to get engaged in trade fairs, business negotiations, etc.
- Your name has to remain enlisted as a citizen of a country that is there in the eligible country list specified by the UK government. You will get the list on the government site.
Necessary Papers, Whose Submission Is Required for The Visa
Don’t just visit the government site and apply for a UK business visa. Before doing it, check if you have all the important documents in your hand.
Some documents are necessary to submit if you apply for the visa.
The documents are –
- Your passport. It must have at least 6 months of validity period.
- The hard copy of your UK business visa application form (you may also complete and submit it online).
- 2 photos of yourself. They must be recently taken and colored-type photographs.
- Documents that prove that your purpose for visiting the UK is for business activities. They may be emails, business letters, etc. You may also submit contract emails or business messages as proof of acquiring the UK business visa.
- Your bank statement. It will prove the sufficiency of funds in your bank account.
- The documents of your health insurance that will cover your health expenses during your days in the UK.
- The document of your IELTS / TOEFL certificate. It will prove that you are adequately proficient in English. It is necessary for your communication in the UK during the business trip.
The UK Business Visa Application Process – Step By Step
- First, visit the UK government’s online site.
- Go to the business visa application section.
- Complete the application form. Submit it.
- You will be given an appointment schedule for visiting the UKVI Application Centre.
- Remain present at the venue on the mentioned date and time to give your biometric data. The biometric professionals will take your digital fingerprints. Also, your facial scan will be done.
- The consular officer will take your interview.
- You will be asked to submit the required documents mentioned earlier. Submit them.
UK Business Visa – Processing Time And Fees
The processing time of your UK business visa will depend on the priority level you choose. If you choose the standard processing time for your visa, it will take a couple of days before you get it.
The approximate time is 15 working days. By choosing priority processing time? You will get it within 5 working days. However, an additional fee will be charged to you for that.
In case of super priority processing of your visa, you will get the same within 1 working day at an additional fee.
However, these additional fees will be more than that of the additional fees for the priority processing of visas.
The exact fee of your business visa application and the priority fee will depend on several factors like –
- The business visa type you’re applying for.
- The validity length of the visa.
- The country from where you are applying, etc.
Also, you will have to pay some extra amount for your health. The payment has to be made for your Immigration Health Surcharge.
The UK business visa fees never remain fixed. It changes from time to time.
So, before filling out the application and paying the fees, educate yourself about the UK business visa fees being charged at that particular time.
Otherwise, paying the incorrect fees will make you repent. It will result in the cancellation of your application.
How to Apply Successfully for The Visa Without Failure – Some Tips
- The documents that you have to submit for visa application must be complete and accurate. Check many times before making their final submission.
- Fill out the business visa application form correctly without making any mistakes. Stay alert while filling in every detail in the form.
- Make the documents ready that signify your strong business ties with the country of which you are a citizen. They will act as a great proof of your business requirement for going to the UK.
- Save money and make sufficient funds before you apply for a UK business visa. Failing to show sufficient funds will lead to the visa application cancellation.
- Educate yourself with proper English before applying for a UK business visa. This is because you will be required to submit proof of your IELTS / TOEFL certificate for getting the visa.
FAQs
1. Is there any interview for a UK business visa?
Yes, after going through every formality like submitting the application form digitally, and paying the fees, the last step is the interview cum biometric verification. Note that you are allowed to submit the form manually as well.
For the interview, you will be given an appointment on a specific date. You have to visit the venue fixed for your interview on that date. There you have to submit the required documents as well. The officers will review your application. Your fingerprints will be taken by the officers. Also, your face will be scanned.
After the biometric data verification, the consular officer will take a few minutes of your interview and the entire formality is done. After you pass the interview, you have to wait for the visa processing. It’s a matter of a few days, and you will get your UK business visa.
2. Can I get a UK visa without an interview?
Yes, it’s not impossible to get a UK business visa without an interview. However, for that, the VAC officer must confirm that there’s no complexity in your application. The VAC officer is the officer sitting in the Visa Application Center.
If he finds any complexity in your visa application, you have to attend an interview session. However, it’s not that tough to crack the interview. Also, the interview process consumes less time as compared to other types of interviews. It’s just a matter of half an hour. The interview usually takes place in the VAC.
Conclusion
It’s a misconception of many people that getting a UK business visa is a tough job and the procedure is complex. However, the truth is different.
The visa is easy to get if you have a valid reason for the business trip to the UK. Also, you have to take careful preparation for the UK visa process.
While filling up the form and arranging the documents, there must be attention to detail. So, check out if you meet the eligibility criteria for filling out the business visa application. And, if yes, get ready with the required documents along with the proof of your strong business ties.
Also, don’t fail to educate yourself in the English language and check if your funds in the bank are sufficient. That’s all! Best of luck for your UK business trip.
