Overview

You can apply as a representative of an overseas business if you’re either:

the sole representative of an overseas business planning to set up either a UK branch or wholly owned subsidiary
an employee of an overseas newspaper, news agency or broadcasting organisation posted on a long-term assignment to the UK

You must also meet the other eligibility requirements.

How long it will take

If you apply from outside the UK, the earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

Example: You can apply from 16 March if you plan to travel on 15 June.

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

You will get a decision within 8 weeks.

UKVI will contact you if your application will take longer, for example:

if your supporting documents need to be verified
if you need to attend an interview
because of your personal circumstances (for example, if you have a criminal conviction)

Once you’ve applied you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expires.

If you apply from outside the UK, a Representative of an Overseas Business visa costs £610.

If you apply from inside the UK, you’ll need to pay:

You must pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. Check how much you need to pay before you apply.

The visa lets you stay in the UK for an initial period of 3 years.

You may be able to extend your visa for another 2 years.

You can:

You cannot: