The UK Sole Representative Visa route is essential overseas businesses to maintain wholly owned subsidiary or branch in the UK. This route is closed for new applications, businesses expand to the UK by setting up a wholly owned subsidiary can now apply for UK Expansion worker visa.

As the end of your initial visa period approaches, it’s crucial to understand the extension process to continue your business activities without interruption. This guide provides a detailed overview of the eligibility requirements, application process, common pitfalls, and expert assistance available to ensure a successful visa extension.

If you are a Representative of an Overseas Business visa holder (often referred to as the Sole Representative visa) currently in the UK, you must apply for an extension before your initial 3-year period ends. You can apply for an extension up to 28 days before the expiry of your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

You can extend your Representative of an Overseas Business visa for an additional two years, provided that you fulfil the eligibility requirements. You are eligible to apply for indefinite permission to remain (ILR) if you have followed this path for five years.

A visa application may be denied by the UK Home Office if the requirements and eligibility standards are not satisfied.

At Conroy Baker Ltd, our UK visa experts have helped hundreds of clients to successfully extend their sole rep visas. We are a dedicated immigration firm providing reliable, generous, and accurate legal advice and information. By guiding you in dealing with the visa application and entry process, you can feel secure knowing you will receive the best possible legal advice and solid legal representation.

To successfully extend your UK Sole Representative Visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. Here are the key requirements:

1. Ongoing Employment: You must still be employed as a sole representative by the same company.
2. Active Business Operations: The UK branch or subsidiary must be actively trading.
3. Continued Intention: Demonstrate your intention to continue working in the same role and capacity.
4. Non-Majority Shareholder: You must not be a majority shareholder of the overseas business.
5. No Other Employment: You must not hold any other form of employment in the UK.

Applying for a UK Sole Representative Visa extension involves several steps. This comprehensive guide will assist you in understanding the process:
Step-by-Step Application Process-

1. Complete and Submit the Online Application: Fill out the online application form available on the Home Office website before your existing visa expires.
2. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the required application fee online: £827 – if you are applying from within the UK
3. Pay the Healthcare Surcharge: Pay the healthcare surcharge of £1,035 for each year.
4. Book and Attend a Biometrics Appointment: Schedule a biometrics appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph. This is a must for all applicants.
5. Submit Your Documents: Upload your documents online or have them scanned and uploaded on your behalf when you attend your UKVCAS appointment.
6. Await a Decision: Wait for the Home Office to process your application. This can take up to 8 weeks if you are using the standard processing service. You might be able to get a quicker decision by paying an extra cost.

The documents you need to supply will depend on your exact circumstances. The following are the necessary documents you need to get ready:

1. Current Passport: Valid passport or travel identification.
2. Current Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): BRP currently held.
3. Proof of Employment: Letter from the employer confirming your continued employment and role.
4. Financial Documents: Bank statements, pay slips, and evidence of sufficient funds.
5. Business Activity Evidence: Documents showing the active trading status of the UK branch or subsidiary, such as tax returns, business accounts, and trading contracts.
6. Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you are living in the UK.
7. Companies House Registration Certificate: Proving that you have established a UK branch, or a certificate of incorporation if you have established a UK subsidiary.
8. Employer’s Letter: Confirming the intention to continue employing you in the same role.

Understanding common pitfalls that lead to visa extension refusals can help you avoid them. Here are some typical reasons and tips on how to prevent them:

Reasons for Refusal and How to Avoid Them

1. Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are submitted and properly organized.
2. Insufficient Financial Evidence: Provide clear evidence of sufficient funds and financial stability.
3. Incorrect Information: Double-check all information for accuracy and consistency.
4. Lack of Business Activity: Provide concrete evidence of active business operations in the UK.
5. Principal Place of Business: Ensure the principal place of business is still outside the UK.
6. Supervision: You must supervise a branch or subsidiary trading in the same type of business as the overseas business.
7. Authority and Control: Demonstrate that you have the authority to make decisions and are in charge of the UK branch or subsidiary.

Navigating the Sole Representative Visa extension process can be challenging. Conroy Baker Ltd offers comprehensive assistance to ensure your application is successful.

Our Services

1. Complete Assistance: Our immigration solicitors provide complete assistance during the application process.
2. Legal Representation: Expert representation before the tribunal if needed.
3. Document Preparation: Thorough preparation of necessary paperwork.
4. Application Review: Analysis of previous applications and advice on resubmitting if required.
5. Transparent Fees: No hidden charges or extra costs.

Mr. Hemang Laaheru, an OISC registered advisor with over 15 years of experience, specializes in UK visas and nationality matters. His extensive expertise includes assisting clients from various countries, such as the UK, USA, India, Dubai (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Zambia, Kenya, and Singapore. Hemang has worked with over 500 businesses across diverse industries, helping them successfully enter the UK and set up operations.

Expertise and Achievements

1. Wide Range of Clients: Assisted companies and individuals in 26 countries.
2. Diverse Industry Experience: Worked with businesses in IT, Gems & Jewellery, Retail, FMCG, Fashion & Apparel, Education, Engineering, and more.
3. Successful Visa Applications: Helped businesses apply for sponsor licenses to hire international talent.

Extending your UK Sole Representative Visa is a crucial step in continuing your business operations in the UK. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documentation, and following the step-by-step application process, you can enhance your chances of a successful extension.

Always stay informed and consider professional advice to navigate the complexities of the visa extension process smoothly.

For expert advice and assistance with your UK visa extension, connect with Conroy Baker Ltd. today. Reach out to our immigration barristers on +44 203 773 2948 or [email protected]