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UK Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply and Key Requirements
Find out how to obtain the digital nomad visa in the UK, the requirements and the process to work remotely in this destination.
In this guide we will navigate the options available for the digital nomad visa for the UK, in order to choose the one that best suits your interests and goals for living in this sophisticated and historic nation. The UK is a very attractive destination for digital nomads looking for opportunities to develop innovative projects or enjoy temporary stays for tourism. While the country does not have a specific visa for digital nomads, there are two suitable alternatives depending on the circumstances: the Innovator Visa and the Standard Visitor Visa.
In this article we will guide you step by step on how these visas work, the requirements you need to meet, the necessary documentation, and how to apply for them. So if you are a digital nomad interested in applying for your UK visa, read on to find out what options are available.
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The Innovator Visa as an option for a digital nomad in the UK
The Innovator Visa is an ideal choice for digital nomads looking to set up or run a business within the UK. It was created in 2019 with the aim of attracting entrepreneurs and people with innovative business ideas that are not currently in the market in this country. This is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to work remotely or create a project from scratch while living in the UK. However, unlike other more general visas, this visa has a business focus, so a business idea with backing is required.
The visa is mainly aimed at people who already have business experience and wish to expand their business or start a new one. One of the main requirements is to obtain the endorsement of an approved organisation, which will assess your business plan and decide whether it meets the criteria of innovation, viability and scalability.
Features of the digital nomad Innovator Visa in the UK
Some of the key features of the Innovator Visa include:
- Duration of stay: The visa has an initial duration of 3 years, with the possibility of extending it indefinitely if you continue to meet the requirements.
- Work for your own business: This visa is designed for digital nomads to work in their own business.
- Visa extension: After the first 3 years, you can apply for an extension or even apply for permanent residence if you meet the requirements.
- Investment funds: You will need a minimum investment of 50,000 euros to start up your business. This money can come from your own resources or from an external investor.
- Family members: You can include your partner and children under the age of 18 in your visa application. They will also be able to live and work in the UK while you develop your business.
General requirements for applying for the digital nomad Innovator Visa in the UK
To obtain the Innovator Visa, digital nomads must meet a number of requirements. The most important of these are listed below:
- Innovative business plan: It is essential to have an innovative business plan that is unique in the UK market. Your idea must offer something different to what already exists in the UK and must have the potential to grow and expand.
- Endorsement from an organisation: You will need the backing of one of the organisations authorised by the UK government to endorse business plans. These organisations will review your business idea and issue you with a letter of support.
- Minimum investment: You must have at least 50,000 euros to invest in your business. This money can come from your personal savings or from an external investor.
- English language proficiency: You must demonstrate a minimum level of English B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be verified through tests such as IELTS.
- Proof of living funds: In addition to the investment funds, you need to prove that you have at least 1,270 euros in your bank account to cover your expenses during the first month in the UK. This amount must have been in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before the application.
Documentation to be submitted for the Innovator Visa
To apply for the Innovator Visa, you will need to submit a number of documents to support your application. They are listed below:
- Valid passport or travel document: You will need a valid passport with at least one blank page.
- Letter of endorsement: this is one of the most important documents. You must obtain a letter of endorsement from a UK government approved organisation validating your business plan.
- Proof of funds: You will need to demonstrate that you have the necessary 50,000 euros of investment for your business, as well as the necessary budget to cover your living expenses.
- Language certificate: An English language test such as IELTS confirming your B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
- Criminal record: You will need to present a criminal record certificate from the countries where you have lived in the last ten years.
- Proof of residence: If you are applying from outside the UK, you will need proof of your current residence, such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement.
Standard Visitor Visa as an option for a digital nomad in the UK
The Standard Visitor Visa is an option for digital nomads who do not need to set up a business, but wish to spend some time in the UK. This visa allows for short stays of up to six months, and is ideal if you plan to engage in tourist activities, visit family or friends, or even attend business meetings. On the other hand, the tourist visa does not allow you to work for a local company or to receive payments from clients within the country.
It is important to note that the tourist visa is not specifically designed for digital nomads, but many use it to combine remote work with tourism, as long as the work they do is for foreign clients or companies.
Features of the Standard Visitor Visa for digital nomads in the UK
Some of the main features of this visa are:
- Duration: Allows a stay of up to six months in the UK. It is not possible to extend it or change it to another type of visa while you are in the country.
- Work is not permitted: Although you can attend business meetings, you cannot do paid work or receive payments from British clients.
- Flexibility: Ideal for those who wish to combine tourism with remote work for companies or clients outside the UK.
- Multiple visits: During the period of validity, you can enter and leave the UK as many times as you wish, as long as you meet the conditions of the visa.
General requirements for applying for the Standard Visitor Visa for digital nomads in the UK
Applying for the Standard Visitor Visa is a simpler process compared to the Innovator Visa. Here are the main requirements:
- Demonstrate the purpose of your visit: You must justify the purpose of your trip, which may include tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings.
- Sufficient funds: It is necessary to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay without recourse to public funds. This includes accommodation, transport and meals.
- Evidence of return: You must provide proof that you intend to return to your home country at the end of your visit, such as a return ticket or employment documentation.
- Proof of accommodation: It is important to show where you will be staying during your visit, whether in a hotel, with family or friends.
Documents to be submitted for the Standard Visitor Visa
For the Standard Visitor Visa, the documents are simpler, but just as important. Here are the key ones:
- Valid passport: As with the Innovator Visa, you will need a passport with at least one blank page and valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.
- Proof of purpose of visit: If you are visiting for tourism, business meetings or to see relatives, you will need to provide evidence such as hotel reservations, invitations to meetings or letters of invitation from relatives.
- Proof of funds: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay, such as accommodation, transport and living costs.
- Evidence of return: A return ticket or proof that you have commitments in your home country that secure your return.
- Medical insurance: This is not compulsory, but it is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any medical emergency during your stay.
Where can I apply for the digital nomad visa in the UK?
Both visas can be applied for online, via the official UK government website. Here we explain the steps for each one:
Innovator Visa
- Online application: The Innovator Visa is applied for through the UK visa portal. You will need to create an account and complete the online form.
- Submission of documents: During the application, you will upload all required documents in digital format. You will also need to make an appointment to register your fingerprints and have your photo taken at a visa application centre.
- Fees: The cost of the Innovator Visa is 1,191 euros if you apply from outside the UK, and 1,486 euros if you apply to extend or change your status while in the country.
Standard Visitor Visa
- Online application: The tourist visa is also applied for through the official UK government website. The process is very similar to that of the Innovator Visa.
- Biometrics appointment: Once you complete the online application, you will need to make an appointment at a visa application centre to register your fingerprints and have your photograph taken.
- Fee: The cost is 115 euros.
Where can I get tailored advice on the digital nomad visa in the UK?
Applying for a digital nomad visa in the UK can be a complicated process, especially if you are applying for a more specialised visa such as the Innovator Visa. Here are some options for personalised advice:
- London Immigration Lawyers: This firm offers personalised advice and can guide you through all the necessary steps for your application. They also offer online services and have flexible opening hours. If London is your destination, we recommend this option.
- Fragomen: A global firm with a UK presence advising on immigration and visa issues. Fragomen has experience working with entrepreneurs and digital nomads seeking business visas such as the Innovator Visa. They offer online services and telephone support.
Frequently asked questions when applying for a digital nomad visa for the UK
Here are some frequently asked questions when applying for visas for digital nomads in the UK. Whether you choose a Standard Visitor Visa or an Innovator Visa, it is important to be clear about which is best suited to your situation and what you can expect from the process.
Processing time for the Innovator Visa can vary, but generally takes between 3 and 8 weeks from the time you submit your application and attend your biometric appointment. Digital nomads looking to set up a business in the UK should plan well in advance so as not to delay their projects.
No, it is not possible to change from a Standard Visitor Visa to an Innovator Visa while in the UK. You would have to leave the country and apply for the Innovator Visa from your home country or a place where you have the right to reside. It is important for digital nomads to consider this if they wish to start a business in the UK after a temporary stay.
You can apply for a tourist visa as many times as you wish, as long as you meet the requirements. Please note that the UK may reject your application if it considers that you are abusing the long-stay or repeat visa. Digital nomads seeking to combine remote work with tourism should be careful not to exceed the time allowed.
It is not compulsory, but it is highly advisable to have travel insurance to cover possible medical emergencies during your stay in the UK. This is especially important for digital nomads, who often spend long periods of time away from their home country and may need unexpected medical care.
No, the tourist visa does not allow you to do paid work or receive payments from UK clients. Digital nomads can continue to work remotely for companies outside the UK, as long as they do not receive payments from clients or companies within the country. This allows for a combination of remote work and tourism.
In addition to the cost of the visa, you will have to pay the Healthcare Surcharge, which allows you to access the UK’s public health system during your stay. The cost is 624 euros per year for adults. For digital nomads, this tariff is important if they plan to spend long periods of time in the UK, as it guarantees access to healthcare.
No, to apply for the Innovator Visa you must have an innovative business idea and a business plan that is endorsed by an approved organisation. Without a viable plan, your application will be rejected. Digital nomads looking to be an entrepreneur in the UK should ensure that their idea meets the criteria of innovation and economic viability.
If your visa application is refused, you will receive an explanation of the reason. You can appeal the decision if you think it was incorrect or you can try again if you address the reasons for the refusal in your new application. It is advisable that digital nomads seek legal or professional advice if they receive a refusal, in order to understand the next steps.
Yes, you can leave and re-enter the UK as long as your tourist visa is valid. Make sure you do not exceed the permitted length of stay. For digital nomads who travel frequently, this is an advantage, as they can move in and out of the country as their projects and commitments require.
Yes, once you get the Innovator Visa, you can live and work anywhere in the UK, but you must meet the requirements of your business plan. Digital nomads interested in settling more permanently in the UK can take advantage of this flexibility to choose the location that best suits their personal and professional needs.
Innovator Visa holders who generate income in the UK must register to pay tax. Consult a tax advisor to understand your obligations is advised. Digital nomads wishing to set up a business in the country should be aware of the taxes they will have to pay, both at the personal and business level.
The tourist visa is for the applicant and does not allow the inclusion of family members. However, your family members can apply for their own tourist visa if they plan to travel with you. If you are a digital nomad and wish to travel with your family, each member must meet the requirements.
