Applying for your
sole representative visa?
Let Smith Stone Walters help

25 September 2019

If your overseas business is looking at expanding into the UK to service a growing UK customer base, then it is time to apply for a sole representative visa.

This visa, also known as a Representative of an Overseas Business visa, allows a representative of your overseas organisation to come to the UK for the purpose of setting up a branch or wholly-owned subsidiary of your business.

You should first ensure, however, that your business is eligible to set up in the UK, and second, that your chosen candidate is qualified to represent your organisation in the UK in the eyes of the UK immigration system.

Once you are certain that the sole representative entry route is the best way into the UK for your business, it is time to prepare and submit the application.

As an overseas national, what documents do I need in order to apply for my Sole Representative visa?

In order to make a successful and timely application, you must prepare a raft of documentation ahead of making your application.

You must have the following personal documentation available for submission:

A current passport or other valid travel identification;
A passport-sized colour photograph;
Evidence that you can support yourself and any dependants during your stay in the UK, eg, bank statements or payslips for the last six months;
Details of where you will be staying in the UK;
Proof that you meet the English language requirement; and
Your TB test results if you are from a country where you have to take the test.

A number of company documents must also be submitted as part of the application and these are as follows:

A full description of the company’s financial activities, including details of assets, accounts and share distribution;
A letter confirming that the overseas company will establish a wholly-owned subsidiary or register a branch in the UK in the same business activity as the parent company;
A detailed business plan for the proposed UK office;
Your job description, employment and salary details; and
A letter confirming that you’re familiar with the company and have the power to take operational decisions.

If you are unsure as to whether or not the sole representative entry route is the best way into the UK for your organisation, contact Smith Stone Walters today.

We regularly file Sole Rep visas for our clients and pride ourselves in providing friendly, up to date and professional advice. Click here for more information on our services.

Read more in our sole representative series:

What is a sole representative visa?

Is your business eligible to send a sole rep to the UK?

How to choose your sole representative visa candidate

The dos and don’ts of a sole rep visa

Can I extend my UK sole rep visa?