Representative of an Overseas Business visa
For senior employees setting up a UK branch of an overseas company; closed and replaced by UK Expansion Worker.
The Representative of an Overseas Business visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. This guide explains who it was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open UK route that fits you.
Who the Representative of an Overseas Business visa is for
For senior employees setting up a UK branch of an overseas company; closed and replaced by UK Expansion Worker.
Previously led to settlement after 5 years; closed in April 2022.
Representative of an Overseas Business visa - eligibility criteria
- Route closed to new applicants from 11 April 2022
- Previously for sole representatives establishing a UK branch
- Replaced by the Global Business Mobility UK Expansion Worker route
- Existing holders may extend and settle under transitional rules
- No new applications accepted
Representative of an Overseas Business visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Representative of an Overseas Business visa (United Kingdom) is Closed (was ~£719), with an indicative processing time of Not applicable (route closed). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Closed to new applicants |
| Length of stay | Was 3 years, extendable |
| Work rights | Work was for the sponsoring overseas business's UK branch |
| Study rights | Study was permitted |
| Government fee | Closed (was ~£719) |
| Processing time | Not applicable (route closed) |
| Route to PR | Previously led to settlement after 5 years; closed in April 2022. |
Pathway & next steps
Previously led to settlement after 5 years; closed in April 2022.
Many applicants also compare GBM Expansion Worker · Global Business Mobility - UK Expansion Worker visa, Innovator Founder · Innovator Founder visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Representative of an Overseas Business visa pitfalls we fix
Representative of an Overseas Business visa - frequently asked questions
Is the Representative of an Overseas Business visa still open?
No - the Representative of an Overseas Business visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. Previously led to settlement after 5 years; closed in April 2022.
Who can apply for the Representative of an Overseas Business visa?
For senior employees setting up a UK branch of an overseas company; closed and replaced by UK Expansion Worker.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority