Sohrab Vazir
Consultant | Founder | Global Citizen | Writer
Tag Archives: Business Immigration
Immigration Business Ideas: How to Get Started
Immigration business ideas are the first starting point for international entrepreneurs. With business immigration becoming increasingly popular, entrepreneurs are on the lookout for high potential business ideas. Exploring immigration business ideas involves various steps and considerations. As a former migrant entrepreneur and a consultant who works with foreign founders, business ideas are a core part of my work. I will highlight a number of factors to consider when exploring high potential immigration business ideas. These will help founders get in the right track and understand the various factors that they ought to prioritize. 1. Problem and demand The first key issue to consider is whether a business idea addresses one or both of the following: I have previously written an article on whether a business idea should always seek to solve a problem. In that article, I argued that while problem-solving is a sound approach to business ideas, it is not the sole determinant of a viable business concept. The key issue to consider when exploring business ideas is demand. If your product and/or service has demand, it will sell. 2. Compliance Immigration business ideas have to go beyond concept viability. They should consider the regulatory framework of the entrepreneur’s destination for business immigration. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the applicant’s destination country and its commercial laws is imperative. 3. Cultural comprehension Another key factor to consider in assessing immigration business ideas is understanding the destination country’s cultural landscape. Cultural dynamics, in many instances, shape a segment’s demands. For instance, a Muslim-majority nation is likely to have a demand for Halal foods. Similarly, a destination which receives a considerable number of Muslim tourists will see an increased demand for Halal products. 4. Immigration laws Lastly, it is imperative that entrepreneurs evaluate the immigration laws of their destination. My personal view is that entrepreneurship and immigration compliance are two distinct, and arguably incompatible, concepts. This is based both on my own experience as a migrant founder and clients whom I have worked with. I successfully navigated the UK’s business immigration laws as a migrant founder and obtained several business visas and permanent residence. However, this journey involved challenges that only those who operate within this space are able to comprehend. Need help with business immigration? As a consultant, I specialise in the commercial aspects of business immigration. I help migrant entrepreneurs validate and evaluate their business concepts, in addition to offering a range of other business services. Contact me to discuss your business immigration challenges, and we can explore the ways in which I may be able to assist. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
How Does the UK Corporation Tax System Work?
If you’re running a business in the UK, understanding the corporation tax system is essential for staying compliant and managing your finances effectively. In this guide, I’ll break down the key aspects of UK corporation tax to help you navigate the system confidently. What Is Corporation Tax? Corporation tax is a tax levied on the profits of companies and some organizations in the UK. It applies to: The tax is based on the company’s accounting period, typically aligning with its financial year. Key Features of the UK Corporation Tax System 1. Taxable Profits Corporation tax is charged on: Some expenses, like business-related costs, can be deducted to calculate taxable profits. 2. Corporation Tax Rates As of April 2023, the corporation tax rate in the UK is: Companies with profits below ÂŁ50,000 may qualify for the Small Profits Rate. 3. Filing and Payment Deadlines Companies must adhere to strict deadlines: Larger companies with annual taxable profits exceeding ÂŁ1.5 million must pay their tax in quarterly installments. 4. Allowances and Deductions The UK corporation tax system offers several ways to reduce your taxable profits, including: 5. Reliefs and Exemptions To encourage economic activity, the UK provides tax reliefs such as: 6. Taxation for Non-UK Companies Foreign companies operating in the UK are only taxed on profits generated within the country. However, the Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) ensure that businesses don’t pay tax twice on the same income. 7. HMRC and Digital Reporting The UK’s tax authority, HMRC, requires businesses to: Non-compliance can result in penalties, so staying on top of deadlines is critical. Practical Tips for Managing Corporation Tax Understanding the UK corporation tax system is vital for running a compliant and profitable business. From knowing what’s taxable to leveraging reliefs and managing deadlines, staying informed can help you optimize your tax position. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Business Immigration as an Entrepreneur: Factors to Consider
Business immigration as an entrepreneur can be a game-changing decision. Whether you’re seeking better market opportunities, access to funding, or a more favourable tax environment, business immigration requires careful planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process effectively. 1. Understand Your Visa Options Entrepreneurial visa programs vary significantly across countries. Some popular options include: Research the eligibility criteria, application processes, and benefits of the visa programs you’re considering. 2. Legal and Compliance Requirements Each country has specific requirements for setting up and running a business, such as: Consulting a local legal expert can save you from costly mistakes. 3. Market Research Before committing to a country, assess its business environment: Thorough market research ensures you’re making an informed decision. 4. Access to Funding Different countries have varying levels of support for entrepreneurs: Building relationships with local investors and banks can be a valuable step. 5. Cultural and Language Considerations Adapting to a new culture is essential for business success. Key areas to focus on include: Cultural adaptability can significantly influence your integration and success. 6. Infrastructure and Support Systems Evaluate the resources available for entrepreneurs in your chosen country: Countries with strong entrepreneurial ecosystems provide a head start. 7. Quality of Life As an entrepreneur, your well-being matters too. Consider factors such as: Choosing a country that aligns with your personal and professional goals leads to a more fulfilling experience. 8. Exit Strategies Finally, always have a backup plan. Evaluate how easy it would be to: Planning ahead minimises risks and ensures flexibility. Entrepreneur Business Immigration: Final Thoughts Business immigration as an entrepreneur offers immense opportunities but comes with challenges that require thorough preparation. By considering visa options, legal requirements, market potential, and personal factors, you can set yourself up for success. Are you ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey abroad? Explore our Entrepreneur Visa Services and get expert guidance tailored to your needs. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
What to Consider Before Applying for a Startup Visa
The startup visa is an attractive opportunity for international entrepreneurs who wish to launch or grow their business in a foreign country. Many nations offer these programs, granting entrepreneurs access to vibrant markets, resources, and networks. However, pursuing a startup visa isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Before embarking on this path, entrepreneurs should carefully weigh several key considerations. Below are important factors to help you decide if a startup visa aligns with your business goals and circumstances. 1. Eligibility Requirements Different countries have varying eligibility criteria for their startup visa programs. Some may require a detailed business plan, proof of investment, or endorsements from designated organizations. Others look at your professional background, language proficiency, and business viability. 2. Visa Duration and Path to Permanent Residency Another critical consideration is the length of the visa and whether it offers a pathway to permanent residency. Some startup visa programs grant only short-term stays, while others provide an opportunity to transition to a longer-term visa or permanent residence if your business meets performance criteria. 3. Market Conditions Entering a foreign market is exciting but challenging. It’s crucial to evaluate if your target market is favorable to your business model and industry. 4. Support Systems and Infrastructure A well-supported startup visa program often includes access to business incubators, accelerators, and mentorship networks that can help startups succeed. Assess the resources available to help your business flourish. 5. Cost of Living and Business Operations Before committing to a startup visa, understand the cost of living and business operations. These factors can greatly influence your budget and ability to scale. 6. Tax Implications A new business location often comes with a different tax system. It’s crucial to understand how a move will impact your personal and business taxes. 7. Exit Strategy Planning an exit strategy before applying for a startup visa is essential, particularly if your business or visa conditions don’t go as planned. Consider what happens if your business doesn’t perform well or if you decide to exit the market. Final Thoughts Applying for a startup visa can be a transformative opportunity to access new markets, gain fresh perspectives, and grow your business in a vibrant environment. However, understanding the full scope of the process, costs, and obligations is essential. By carefully evaluating each factor and conducting thorough research, you’ll be better prepared to determine if a startup visa is the right choice for your entrepreneurial journey. Remember, success depends on more than just obtaining a visa—it’s about positioning your business for sustainable growth and adaptability in a foreign market. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Why Foreign Entrepreneurs Should Start a Business in Georgia
In recent years, Georgia has emerged as a prime destination for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses. This small country, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers a unique blend of favourable policies, strategic advantages, and a vibrant cultural environment. If you’re considering expanding your entrepreneurial ventures, here’s why you should start a business in Georgia. 1. Business-Friendly Environment One of the standout features of Georgia is its remarkably business-friendly atmosphere. The country ranks highly on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index, thanks to government reforms aimed at simplifying business registration and reducing bureaucratic red tape. Entrepreneurs can set up a business quickly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growth rather than navigating complex regulations. 2. Attractive Tax Incentives When you start a business in Georgia, you’ll benefit from one of the most favourable tax regimes in the region. The corporate tax rate is set between 0%-20%, and in certain Free Industrial Zones, businesses enjoy a zero percent corporate tax on reinvested profits. This favourable tax structure makes Georgia an appealing choice for entrepreneurs looking to maximise their profits. 3. E-Residency Program Georgia’s innovative e-residency program allows entrepreneurs from around the world to register and manage their businesses online. This unique initiative enables you to operate your business remotely, offering flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re a digital nomad or simply prefer the freedom to work from anywhere, e-residency makes it easier than ever to start a business in Georgia. 4. Low Cost of Living Starting a business often involves significant expenses, but Georgia offers an affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries. This affordability extends to housing, food, and transportation, allowing entrepreneurs to stretch their budgets further. With lower overhead costs, you can reinvest more in your business, enhancing your chances for success. 5. Strategic Location Georgia’s geographical position makes it a strategic gateway to both European and Asian markets. With access to major trade routes and free trade agreements with several countries, Georgia provides excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs to expand their reach. This strategic advantage is particularly valuable for businesses looking to tap into diverse markets. 6. Vibrant Startup Ecosystem The capital city, Tbilisi, is home to a burgeoning startup ecosystem that is fostering innovation and collaboration among entrepreneurs. With numerous incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces, you’ll find ample opportunities to network, share ideas, and gain support from fellow business owners. This vibrant community is an excellent resource for new entrepreneurs seeking mentorship and guidance. 7. Rich Cultural Heritage Georgia is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. The country’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences creates an inspiring environment for creativity and innovation. By choosing to start a business in Georgia, you not only gain a strategic location and favoUrable policies but also immerse yourself in a culturally rich experience that can enhance your entrepreneurial journey. Starting a business in Georgia presents a unique opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs. With its business-friendly environment, attractive tax incentives, low cost of living, and strategic location, Georgia is an ideal choice for those looking to expand their ventures. The vibrant startup ecosystem, coupled with rich cultural experiences and supportive government initiatives, makes Georgia a prime destination for entrepreneurial growth. If you’re ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey, consider Georgia as your next business destination. With its numerous advantages, your venture is set to flourish in this dynamic country. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
How to Move to the UAE as an Entrepreneur: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why start a business in the UAE? Starting a business in the UAE as an entrepreneur is an exciting opportunity, offering access to a thriving business environment, world-class infrastructure, and strategic location. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about relocating to the UAE and starting your entrepreneurial journey. The UAE is one of the top destinations for entrepreneurs to start a business due to: Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type For entrepreneurs, the most popular visa options are: 1. UAE Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs: The Golden Visa offers a 5-year residency for entrepreneurs who meet specific criteria, such as: Advantages: Learn more: UAE Government Golden Visa Information 2. Investor Visa: For those who invest in a UAE business, this visa allows a 3-year stay and can be renewed. Requirements: Step 2: Choose the Right Business Structure The UAE offers different types of business setups: Popular Free Zones for Entrepreneurs: Visit the official DMCC website for more information: DMCC Free Zone Step 3: Register Your Business To officially start your business, follow these steps: You can use services like the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) portal for licensing. More info at: DED Business Licensing Step 4: Open a Corporate Bank Account Having a UAE-based corporate bank account is crucial for your business operations. Requirements may vary by bank, but typically you need: Top Banks for Entrepreneurs: Step 5: Find a Suitable Place to Live and Work The UAE offers plenty of options for accommodation and office space. Consider the following: Tip: Use websites like Bayut or Property Finder to explore housing options. Step 6: Understand the Legal and Regulatory Requirements Ensure compliance with UAE laws: Step 7: Network and Connect with the Business Community Networking is vital for business success in the UAE. Join events, seminars, and organizations such as: Frequently Asked Questions Q: How much does it cost to start a business in the UAE? Q: Can I sponsor my family with an entrepreneur visa? Final Thoughts Starting a business in the UAE as an entrepreneur can be a game-changer for your business. With the right visa, business setup, and understanding of the local market, you can tap into a thriving ecosystem and enjoy long-term success. Start your journey today and take advantage of the UAE’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape! For more information, consult the UAE Government’s Official Portal and always seek professional guidance when needed. By following these steps, you can smoothly transition into the UAE as an entrepreneur and leverage the country’s favourable business environment for your success! Explore my services to start a business in the UAE. I help foreign entrepreneurs with their business relocation, building on my own experience. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats. I did so by obtaining an endorsement from Newcastle University under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Scheme. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa). I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Ireland’s Startup Visa Program (STEP): A Comprehensive Guide
The Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) in Ireland is a dynamic initiative aimed at attracting foreign entrepreneurs to launch innovative businesses within the country. Launched in 2012, this program is part of Ireland’s broader strategy to become a global hub for startups and innovation. Ireland offers several benefits to entrepreneurs, including access to the European Union (EU) market, a highly skilled workforce, and a favourable corporate tax environment. Here’s an in-depth look at the STEP, including its advantages and drawbacks. What is the Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)? STEP allows non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to establish a high-potential startup in Ireland with the aim of promoting job creation, innovation, and investment in the country. Successful applicants are granted a residency visa, which permits them to live and work in Ireland. Key Eligibility Criteria: Pros of the Ireland STEP: 1. Access to the EU Market One of the biggest advantages of establishing a business in Ireland is access to the broader European Union market, which consists of over 400 million consumers. This opens up significant opportunities for startups to scale and expand into Europe easily. 2. Low Corporate Tax Rate Ireland boasts a 12.5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in Europe, which is a strong incentive for startups looking to minimize their tax burden. Additionally, Ireland offers several tax reliefs for research and development, providing further benefits for innovative businesses. 3. Favorable Business Environment Ireland has a well-established startup ecosystem supported by organizations like Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, which offer mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs. These organizations are instrumental in helping startups navigate the Irish business landscape and achieve growth. 4. High-Quality Talent Pool Ireland has a highly educated workforce, particularly in technology and life sciences. Its universities produce a steady stream of skilled graduates, and the country is home to many global tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, fostering a collaborative business environment for startups. 5. Fast-Track Residency STEP offers entrepreneurs and their families the opportunity to live in Ireland with a Stamp 4 Visa, which provides long-term residency. After living in Ireland for five years, applicants can apply for citizenship. Cons of the Ireland STEP: 1. Financial Barrier The €50,000 minimum investment requirement, although lower than many other countries, can still be a significant hurdle for some early-stage entrepreneurs, especially those from countries with lower access to capital or foreign exchange restrictions. 2. Sector Limitation The requirement for a high-potential startup that is scalable and innovative restricts the types of businesses that can qualify. Traditional businesses or those in non-tech sectors may find it difficult to meet the program’s strict criteria, limiting participation to more niche sectors. 3. Competition for Funding While there is strong support from Enterprise Ireland, competition for state-backed funding and grants can be fierce. Entrepreneurs need to have a well-thought-out business plan and demonstrate clear potential for growth to secure financial backing. 4. Strict Evaluation Process STEP’s application process involves rigorous vetting by the Evaluation Committee to ensure that applicants meet all the requirements. This can be time-consuming, and the outcome is not guaranteed, even for qualified candidates. Conclusion: Ireland’s Startup Entrepreneur Programme offers a fantastic opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs to establish a business in a thriving European economy with access to a talented workforce and favorable tax conditions. While the program has some limitations, particularly in terms of the investment requirement and sector eligibility, the benefits of building a business in Ireland make it an attractive option for those in innovative and scalable industries. With access to the EU market, strong governmental support, and a low corporate tax rate, Ireland continues to position itself as a startup-friendly destination, particularly for businesses with high growth potential. However, entrepreneurs should carefully consider the financial and strategic commitments involved before applying for the visa. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats. I did so by obtaining an endorsement from Newcastle University under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Scheme. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa). I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant?
You are an international entrepreneur and want to start a business abroad. You may dread the various legal, commercial and perhaps cultural challenges ahead of you. Obtaining a visa, albeit a significant milestone, is only your first hurdle. I know how this situation feels as I have been in your shoes. I became an international entrepreneur in the UK following the competition of my master’s degree at Newcastle University. At the time, I identified a gap in the student housing market, which resulted in conceptualising and founding my former venture, StudyFlats. Within 4 years, I grew StudyFlats to 30+ UK cities, a team of four and we almost closed our first funding round until the lovely events of 2020 squashed the entire company (yes, painful). Nevertheless, I still obtained my Settlement/Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, also known as permanent residency. Throughout this entire time, I was fortunate to have friends and a powerful network to help me overcome some of the challenges facing every international entrepreneur. This was especially the case as I started StudyFlats with less than £500 and proofread students’ assignments in the first year to support myself and my business. However, not every international entrepreneur may have the network that I had. Moreover, I still had to make a lot of mistakes and go through extreme financial and mental pressure to grow my business. Yet, I could not identify a business consultant who specialised in working with overseas entrepreneurs (and decided to be the first one myself by the end of 2022). Let me tell you a little truth: as an international entrepreneur, you are at a disadvantage. You are taking risks and are also investing your key resources, time and money. If it fails, you are the only one losing. Risk is a core part of entrepreneurship, regardless of what type of entrepreneur you are. However, the risk is even greater when you are an entrepreneur and also have to comply with immigration rules and milestones. And this is one of the reasons why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant. Working with a consultant such as myself will help you in the following ways: Minimising risk My first advice to any entrepreneur is to have a thorough understanding of the market in which they seek to operate. This requires: Many international entrepreneurs lack one or both of the above, and it often results in disaster. The right business consultant will help you minimise risk as they possess both of the above factors. Cultural gap In life, and especially in business, everything boils down to relationships. You may neglect this factor. However, if you fail to communicate with your stakeholders the right way, you are destined to fail. The way business is conducted differs in each country. You may be a skilled entrepreneur, yet lack the cultural grasp of doing business in a country other than yours. Business consultants who work with international entrepreneurs (at least the right ones) will comprehend the importance of this point. Additionally, they will be able to help you successfully navigate the cultural landscape. Commercial expertise Entrepreneurship is a game of unlimited challenges. You fix one aspect, and the other crumbles. This is a brutal reality that you must accept. Additionally, various considerations must be taken into account. Let’s look at a few: By working with a business consultant, you will delegate some of these to them. This is not only sensible from a business perspective, but also essential for you to be able to overcome the personal and professional challenges that you will have to face. These are some of the reasons why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant. If you are an international entrepreneur and want to work with a consultant, get in touch with me today. I am the UK’s first and #1 independent business consultant who has been through the immigration journey himself. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats. I did so by obtaining an endorsement from Newcastle University under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Scheme. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa). I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Innovator Founder Visa Rejection | 4 reasons
None of the content in this article, website, or my services constitute immigration advice or services. This content is presented as general information and on the basis of personal opinion. For immigration assistance, please refer to a regulated solicitor or immigration advisor. The risk of an Innovator Founder visa rejection is on the rise. This is not a surprise as the new visa, in contrast to the former Innovator visa, now permits applicants to engage in paid employment. As such, this has led to increased interest and demand for the Innovator Founder visa. In addition to increased demand, the current Innovator Founder visa can only be endorsed by 4 Endorsing Bodies, a far smaller number than the previous visa. As a business consultant working with international entrepreneurs, I have come across Innovator Founder visa rejection cases that relate to the endorsement stage. Moreover, I have also actively monitored the Innovator Founder visa’s rejections. These are 3 common reasons why your Innovator Founder visa endorsement application may be rejected. 1. Your idea is not innovative As you may be aware, there are 3 key factors that Endorsing Bodies assess when considering endorsement applications, which are: Let’s talk about the innovation aspect first. Technically speaking, your idea/business should: 2. Your business is not viable Notice that I did not use the word “idea” in the heading above? The “viability” aspect refers to “you”, the founder/founding team. The core requirement is whether you have the skills and competencies to start and scale the business or not. Thus, factors such as your professional experience or qualifications will be relevant. 3. Your idea is not scalable Put simply: what is the vision for your business? How far will it go? How much money will it make? You may have a unique concept and have the personal skills to launch the business, but how big will the business get? If your business cannot scale nationally or internationally, it may be one of the reasons for a rejection of your Innovator Founder visa endorsement. 4. You bought a bad Innovator Founder visa business plan I write business plans for my clients (up to a limit, as they take a lot of time and I write each plan myself). Therefore, I am aware that many founders will seek the help of external parties for their business plan. Sadly, the market is now full of business plan writers who simply either use ChatGPT, or hire people with no experience in business to write a low-quality plan. This is why I have introduced a service to coach and mentor founder to writer their own business plan. I understand that for some, it may be necessary to have somebody else communicate their business. However, writing your own business plan will give you more confidence in presenting it, and it will also improve several skills such as writing and design. And do not worry, I will help you with ALL of that. These are some common reasons behind an Innovator Founder Visa rejection at the endorsement stage. Remember, do not trust every company or person to be in charge of your business ideas and endorsement application, unless you can verify their credentials. Even then, you should make sure that you are aware of every aspect and stage of the business plan whilst it is written. Need help with the Innovator Founder visa endorsement? Check out my services, designed specifically for founders like you. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats. I did so by obtaining an endorsement from Newcastle University under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Scheme. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder Visa). I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
How I started a tech startup with ÂŁ500 & scaled it to 30+ UK cities
Following the completion of my master’s degree, I founded a tech startup called StudyFlats. Within 3 years, I scaled this PropTech company to over 30 UK cities, with a client base in over 50 countries. As a solo non-technical founder, the idea for StudyFlats seemed far-fetched at first. My business idea was first put to the test when I spoke to Newcastle University. I was an international student in the UK on a visa and therefore had to obtain the correct visa. I pitched the idea to Newcastle University and managed to receive an endorsement for the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa scheme. This was the former equivalent of the former Startup Visa in the UK. The first year The first year was one of the most difficult years of my life. I was a 22-year-old graduate, with a laptop and £500 in my bank account. Not to mention that I had no coding knowledge/background and thus could not create the website myself. I was getting quotes upwards of £10,000 from agencies to create StudyFlats’ website. Needless to say, these were not an option and I was stuck. At the same time, a very dear friend of mine from University, introduced me to a developer who agreed to complete the backend functionalities, whilst I learnt the other parts, especially SEO as I knew I’d heavily rely on it. In the meantime, I was proofreading students’s assignments and dissertations to fund the business and my daily expenses (living in a single room with shared toilets that year was no fun at all). The lesson that I learnt was: where there’s a will there’s a way. I had no option but to grow this company despite all the hurdles. The second & third years year In the second and third years, things began to improve. By the second year, StudyFlats operated in 10 cities. However, this is also when a major competitor began scaling with £70m of funding! It is also worth noting that StudyFlats worked with contractors/freelancers during the second year. Hence, there was no “team” at this point and I essentially did everything that was needed. However, I adopted 2 strategies that gained a unique competitive advantage for StudyFlats, which was integral to its growth. These were: By the end of 2019, we were a team of five, operated across 30+ UK cities, consulted 1000+ students from 50+ countries, and had investors approaching us themselves. March 2020: goodbye And this is where the brutal reality hits: you can do everything right and things can still go south. With the events of 2020, I was reluctant to maintain the company’s operations for that period as it seemed extremely unpredictable and possibly a recipe for liability. Additionally, we needed cash to maintain the company’s operations, yet this was simply not possible as we paused our operations. By 2021, I considered relaunching the company’s operations. However, after considering several factors including the desire to do what I do now as a consultant, I made the very difficult decision that every founder resents. However, I see StudyFlats as a learning experience, the driver of my settlement in the UK and an opportunity that was missed due to factors outside my control. We live and learn, it is what it is. Starting and scaling a (tech) startup is not for the faint-hearted. It involves pain, uncertainty, disappointment, rejection and loneliness. But in the end, it can all be worth it, as it was in my case. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses, and mainly with obtaining endorsements from the endorsing bodies.