How do I apply to come to the United Kingdom as a sole representative of an overseas firm?

This page explains how to apply to come to the United Kingdom as a sole representative of an overseas firm.

Applying from inside the United Kingdom

If you are already in the United Kingdom you will need to use the BUS application form and guidance, which you can download from the right side of this page. You must read the guidance before completing the application form.

The guidance gives details of the documents you will need to send with your application and important information on the photographs which you will also need to send with your application.

You can also get a copy of this form posted to you by calling our application forms unit on 0870 241 0645.

When you make your application you need to make sure that you apply before your existing permission to stay in the United Kingdom runs out. The date of application is the day you post your application. If the existing permission requires you to complete a certain period, in order to qualify for further or indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom, you shouldn't apply more than 28 days before you complete the relevant period.

Your application may be delayed or refused if you apply too early in a category in which you have to complete a set period, for instance in categories leading to settlement in the United Kingdom. For the addresses of where to send your applications see the where to send page.

Applying from outside the United Kingdom

If you are outside the United Kingdom you will need to apply for entry clearance before making your application.

You can also check with the British missions overseas to find out about ways in which you can apply for entry clearance.
For further information and guidance on how to apply for entry clearance you should see the visa services website. If you would like a copy of the guidance notes in Braille, on audio tape and in large print, please contact:

Visa services
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
King Charles Street
London
SW1A 2AH
United Kingdom
Phone: 0207 008 8308
Email: www.ukvisas.gov.uk/enquiries

Dependants

If you and your dependants are already in the United Kingdom you will need to apply for an extension of stay (further leave to remain), for both yourself and your dependants using the same BUS application form (see above).

If you are overseas you will have to apply for entry clearance for yourself and your dependants at the same time. You will need to apply for entry clearance through visa services.

Any dependant children over 18 years old should make their own application on a separate form and pay the appropriate fee. If you are overseas, you should see the visa services website for further information on how to do this.

To find out further information on dependants you should see the dependants section.

Fees

You will need to pay a fee when you make your application. See the cost page for the current fees.