If you are the representative of an overseas business planning to set up a branch in the UK, the Representative of an Overseas Business Category (ROB) might be your solution, and we can help. Our specialised team of highly-qualified immigration lawyers and barristers are available around the clock to assist you in making a successful visa application.
The Difference Between the the Representative of an Overseas Business Visa and a UK Expansion Worker Visa
The difference between the ROB visa and UEW visa is something that has often confused our clients. It is of the utmost importance to note that the Representative of an Overseas Business visa is not equivalent to the recently introduced ‘UK Expansion Worker’ visa (UEW).
Only a limited class of people are eligible under the UK Expansion Worker Visa. These are limited to the employees of companies such as news agencies, overseas newspapers, or a broadcasting organisation that is posted to the UK on a long-term basis.
The Representative of an Overseas Business visa, on the other hand, caters to representatives of an overseas business that plan to set up their first branch in the UK. The visa allows a holder to stay for an initial period of 3 years and may be extended to an additional two years. If you have been in the UK for 5 years, you can then apply for permission to permanently settle in the UK. Our team of immigration barristers and solicitors offers clients a bespoke legal service and formulate a nuanced strategy with their individual circumstances in mind. We look at the merits of your case and present it before the Home Office in a way that you get the best result.
Requirements for a Representative of an Overseas Business Visa
As an applicant, you must be able to show that you can finance your stay in the UK. Therefore, you must show certain amounts of money on your bank statements before you are eligible to apply.
You must also pay a health surcharge payment that can vary depending on your circumstances.
The application fee itself entails a cost of £625 if you are applying from within the UK and £719 if you are applying from abroad. Our team of trained solicitors and lawyers is well-equipped to walk you through the details of the various fees required.
You must also pass a secure English Language Test (SELT), which assesses your speaking and listening abilities, with at least CEFR level A1. There are a number of approved test providers that carry out these tests. Our team can advise you on this and ensure that the test you book is approved and accepted by the Home Office so that your visa application proceeds smoothly.
How much time does the ROB Visa take?
The decision on a visa application under the ROB category may take up to 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK and 8 weeks if you apply within the UK.
This may take longer if your supporting documents are unverified. Our team of immigration barristers and solicitors has considerable experience working complex Home Office rules and regulations, ensuring that such a possibility is out of the question. We complete and submit your application, on your behalf, to the best standard and streamline the entire process so that there is no delay whatsoever.
Successful Representative of an Overseas Business Application
The key ingredient to success is having the right support. Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest.
We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of the merit of your case before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you in proceeding with the preparation and submission of your application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. UK Immigration Experts is just minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is integral to success. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and develop a timely legal strategy for your successful Representative of an Overseas Business visa application.