If you’re a U.S.-based entrepreneur or executive looking to expand internationally, the United Kingdom offers a business-friendly environment with strong global connectivity. With the right legal support, you can set up a UK company and get a visa that allows key personnel to enter the UK to establish and manage the new business.

The most relevant immigration route for this purpose is the UK Expansion Worker Visa, which falls under the Global Business Mobility (GBM) visa framework. This route is specifically designed for foreign companies that are not yet trading in the UK but wish to send senior employees—such as executives, founders, or directors—to oversee the launch of a UK branch or subsidiary.

To set up a UK company and apply for a visa, the process typically involves two parallel tracks:

1. Corporate Setup – Your U.S. business must register a UK entity, which includes choosing a company structure, registering with Companies House, setting up a business bank account, and establishing a physical address in the UK.
   
   
   
2. Immigration Compliance – Your company must apply for a UK sponsor license, allowing it to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the transferring employee. That employee then applies for a UK Expansion Worker Visa using the CoS.

The selected employee must meet salary and skill thresholds, and in most cases, must have worked for the U.S. parent company for at least 12 months.

This visa is typically valid for 12 months and can be extended up to 2 years. While it doesn’t directly lead to permanent residency, it opens the door to more permanent routes once the UK company becomes operational and meets eligibility for other visa categories.

Our legal team helps clients from the U.S. navigate both the business formation and immigration processes seamlessly. As experienced UK business immigration attorneys, we provide full-service support—from registering your UK company to preparing sponsor license and visa applications—ensuring every step complies with UK law and maximizes your chances of approval.

If you’re ready to set up a UK company and get a visa, contact us today to begin your expansion journey with confidence.