The Prospective Entrepreneur visa allows visitors to take part in meetings and discussions to obtain funding for their business and falls under the standard visa category. Once funding is secured they may apply for a Start-up or Innovator visa to remain in the UK as an entrepreneur.
Prospective Entrepreneur visa requirements
The applicants must satisfy the Home Office that they are a genuine visitor and meet the following specific criteria.
- Provide evidence of support from one or more endorsing bodies for the Start-up or Innovator categories in Appendix W
- Intend to engage in discussions to secure funding from any legitimate source, which they intend to use to set up a business in the UK.
- Genuinely seeking entry for a purpose that is permitted by the visitor routes and will not undertake any prohibited activities;
- Have sufficient funds to cover all reasonable costs in relation to the visit without working or accessing public fund
Prospective Entrepreneur Visa applicants do not need to meet an English language requirement, but they do if they want to switch to a Start-up or Innovator visa. This visa, however, does not allow you to work for pay or unpaid, live in the UK for long periods of time through frequent trips, marry or give notice of a marriage/civil partnership, or claim public funding.