Visa Support
The University of Glasgow has an allocation of 20 endorsements on an annual basis which allow international students to apply for a Start-up visa on completion of their studies.
These visas allow non-EEA graduates to stay in the UK for two years to develop their business ideas with a view to turning them into legitimate start-up businesses.
THE PROCESS:
You must have a genuine and credible business idea and be willing to work closely with the University’s Student Enterprise programme to fully develop your proposal and formulate a robust business plan.
There is a full range of support available to you, not only from the University but from other local business support organisations, during this time.
Once the Enterprise Manager deems you ready, your business plan is sent to be assessed by an experienced panel of business experts.
You will then attend a panel meeting to pitch your idea and answer any questions the panel members may have. If successfully endorsed at this stage, you will be able to apply for the visa.
Once the visa has been approved by UKVI, you must agree to a monitoring programme which is designed to help you develop and grow the business.
The University will also actively encourage you to participate in workshops and networking events organised by Student Enterprise.
GET ENGAGED EARLY:
If you wish to be considered for endorsement contact the Enterprise Manager at least 6 months before your current visa expiry date. This is to ensure you have enough time to prepare your business plan and for the assessment panel.
If you are applying less than 3 months before the visa expiry, you are less likely to be successful in being endorsed by the panel.
INTERESTED? GET IN TOUCH!
Please note that we can only offer endorsements to University of Glasgow students/graduates.
For more information or to discuss your potential business ideas contact:
Marion Anderson, Enterprise Manager
FURTHER INFORMATION:
See UKVI webpages.
You may also wish to contact International Student Support, who can offer advice on the required documentation and relevant visa application form(s).