Residency and visas in the UK

Owning or directing a UK company does not by itself give anyone the right to live or work in the UK. Immigration status is a separate question, decided by the Home Office under the rules that apply to your nationality and your plans. A company director from abroad can run a UK company from overseas, but a founder who wants to move needs advice on the permit routes: in general terms work, business, investment, family or study. Rules and fees change often, so confirm the current position with the government or an adviser who is qualified to give immigration advice.

Only a small group of firms on Accountanty mention residency and visa support, and it is usually offered alongside accounting rather than as a legal practice. Ask the firm exactly what it does: does it advise, prepare applications, or refer you to an immigration specialist? Ask whether the person giving the advice is regulated for it. The UK country guide covers the company side of a move.

13 firms list this service: 11 accounting firms and 2 corporate services providers. 12 of them focus on foreign clients, and the most common languages are English (6), Spanish (3) and Polish (2). Expats and entrepreneurs appear among their client groups. See London for the largest city page, or send a free quote request.

Firms offering residency and visa support in the UK

Hawksford

Corporate services provider · International network

London

  • Company formation
  • Accounting and bookkeeping
  • Tax compliance
  • +6 more

Languages: English · Chinese

View profile of Hawksford

AccountsCo

Accounting firm · Boutique firm

London

  • Company formation
  • Accounting and bookkeeping
  • Tax compliance
  • +5 more

Languages: English · Italian · Filipino · Portuguese …

View profile of AccountsCo

Frequently asked questions

Does owning a UK company give me the right to live in the UK?

No. Company ownership and immigration status are separate. You can own and direct a UK company from abroad, but living or working in the UK requires permission under the immigration rules. Ask a qualified adviser which route fits your plans.

Can an accountant handle my visa application?

Some firms prepare applications or work with immigration specialists. Immigration advice is regulated, so ask whether the person advising you is authorised to give it, and who is responsible if the application is refused.

Should I register the company before applying for a visa?

It depends on the route and your plans, so get advice before you commit. For some routes the company must exist and be trading, for others it is irrelevant. A firm can tell you what evidence of the business you will need.

Other services in the UK

Accountants by city in the UK

Setting up a company in the UK: the guide and every firm

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules, rates and fees change: check them with the official sources linked on this page or with a qualified adviser before you act.