For American entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, the Business Expansion Visa UK from the USA is a critical route for launching operations in one of the world’s leading economies. Formally known as the UK Expansion Worker Visa, this route is designed for foreign companies that are not yet active in the UK but plan to establish a commercial presence by transferring key personnel from their home country.

Whether you’re a startup founder or represent a growing U.S. enterprise, this visa enables you to send senior staff—such as directors, executives, or key specialists—to set up a UK branch, subsidiary, or affiliated company. It’s a key part of the UK’s Global Business Mobility (GBM) immigration framework, which supports international business growth while maintaining strict compliance standards.

To qualify, your company must:

• Be actively trading and registered in the United States.
• Present a legitimate and well-supported plan for UK expansion.
• Obtain a UK sponsor license under the Expansion Worker route.
• Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the selected employee.

The individual employee must:

• Be employed by the U.S. company.
• Have at least 12 months of prior employment (with some exceptions).
• Meet specific skill and salary thresholds set by the UK Home Office.

The visa is generally issued for 12 months, with a maximum duration of 2 years, and while it doesn’t directly provide a pathway to permanent residence, it often acts as a strategic first step in a broader immigration and growth plan.

Due to the dual requirements of immigration law and corporate establishment, many businesses choose to work with a qualified UK business immigration attorney. Legal support is especially useful for sponsor license applications, business documentation, and ensuring your employee’s eligibility.

At our firm, we provide end-to-end legal assistance to U.S. businesses applying for UK business expansion visas, helping ensure compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind as you grow your company overseas.