• Overseas individuals (outside the European Economic Area) wishing to set up a new business in the UK can now apply for either a Start-up or Innovator business visa issued by the UK Home Office.

• To qualify for a visa in either category, applicants must first obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body.

• Severn Seed Finance (SSF) is a Home Office Approved Endorsing Body for both the Start-up and Innovator Visas.

Important Background to Consider Before Starting the Process

Your Business proposal for both Start-up and Innovator Visas must meet the key tests of being:

• Innovative – an original business idea that meets a new or existing market need & creates a competitive advantage 

• Viable – You have now or with support will have the necessary skills and experience to develop and run your business proposal successfully

• Scalable – You can objectively demonstrate (through your business plan) that your business proposal will generate new jobs and can scale up into new national and international markets

In addition to the criteria for endorsement required by SSF, you will also need to meet ALL the UK Home Office VISA requirements. For (Start-up) HERE  For Innovator HERE

For further general information on the Business Visa Scheme please see our Info Sheet HERE

SSF Endorsement Process

SSF will only consider applications:

• That have a 3 year cashflow forecast (Click here to create one easily. No financial knowledge necessary.  The cost is £50, payable to Finstant a partner company)

• That have completed & passed the free SSF business profiling assessment. (You will need a cashflow to complete the assessment)

• Or who have been referred to SSF by one of its recognised third parties and have completed the above.

Apply to complete the SSF Business profiling assessment and we will confirm if the application meets the criteria to be considered for endorsement