For the purposes of the immigration rules, you will be considered a sole representative of an overseas business if you are:
- The sole representative of an overseas business and want to set up a UK branch or a wholly owned subsidiary in the UK.
- Or you work as an employee of an overseas broadcasting organisation, an overseas newspaper or news agency.
Main requirements for the Representative of the Overseas Business visa:
Sole Representatives
- The headquarter of company should be outside of the UK.
- The applicant should be an employee that holds a senior position and have the ability to take important decisions on behalf of the company.
- There should be no other branch already established before you come to the UK.
News agency, working in broadcasting companies or newspapers
- You should be appointed to work in the UK on a long-term engagement.
Other requirements:
- Have sufficient funds to meet the maintenance threshold
- Meet the required level of English Language ability unless you come from an English-speaking country as per the rule.
Indefinite Leave to Remain
Sole representative visa leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain after staying 5 continuous years in the UK. The applicant must show that he or she:
- Has spent a continuous period of 5 years in the UK.
- Is still required for the employment in the UK.
- Still meets the requirements of the Representative of the Overseas business.
- Meets the absence rules.
- Has sufficient knowledge of English and have passed the Life in the UK Test.
- Does not fall for refusal under the general ground for refusal.
