Sohrab Vazir
Consultant | Founder | Global Citizen | Writer
Tag Archives: Business Visa
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.
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.
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.
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.
Advisory Programs now LIVE
In today’s dynamic business landscape, personalized guidance and support are invaluable assets on the path to success. Recognizing the diverse needs of individuals and enterprises, my tailored advisory programs are designed to empower migrants, founders, and enterprise alike. Let’s delve into how these programs can unlock potential, foster growth, and drive innovation. Empowering Founders Entrepreneurship is a journey fraught with challenges and opportunities. The programs equip founders with the tools and insights they need. Whether to navigate the complexities of employment or scaling a venture. From refining business models to accessing funding and market expansion strategies, I work hand-in-hand with founders to turn visions into reality. With personalised mentorship and actionable guidance, I empower founders to build resilient and impactful businesses. Empowering Migrants For migrants navigating new territories, my advisory programs offer a roadmap to prosperity. From navigating cultural nuances to accessing opportunities, I provide personalised strategies and mentorship to facilitate integration and success. By harnessing individual strengths and aspirations, I help migrants to thrive in their new environments and contribute meaningfully to society. Empowering Enterprise Innovation lies at the heart of every successful enterprise. The advisory programs offer tailored solutions to drive innovation, growth, and competitive advantage. Whether it’s optimizing operations, exploring new markets, or fostering a culture of innovation, I partner with enterprises to unlock their full potential. Through strategic guidance and implementation support, I enable enterprises to stay ahead of the curve and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving marketplace. At the core of my advisory programs lies a commitment to empowerment, growth, and impact. By tailoring my approach to the unique needs of migrants, founders, and enterprise, I unlock new possibilities and drive sustainable success. Join me on this transformative journey and unlock your full potential today! 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 (similar to the current Start-Up Visa). Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (which was replaced by the Innovator 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 entrepreneurs start their businesses.
Don’t make this mistake with Business and Startup Visas
Business and startup visas and international entrepreneurs are what and who I deal with on a daily basis. As someone who has embarked on the path of business visas as a foreign entrepreneur, I have learned a few lessons. Disclaimer: none of the content in this article, or website, constitute immigration advice in any shape or form. For professional immigration advice, please refer to a regulated immigration advisor or solicitor. If you are an international entrepreneur considering applying for a business or startup visa, there are quite a few things to consider. This may be one of the biggest challenges with foreign entrepreneurs. Starting a business is always hard work; add it to navigating immigration rules and you are bound to get things wrong. As such, in this article, I seek to prevent foreign entrepreneurs from making ONE fatal mistake, and that is underestimating the requirements of business and startup visas. Business & Startup visas may come with ongoing requirements Remember that under many visa paths such as the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa, there are ongoing milestones that founders must meet. In other words, getting a business or startup visa is just the beginning. Where do founders get it wrong? With the above in mind, founders usually underestimate startup and business visa requirements by either: These two mistakes can end up costing you money, time, energy and your health. It is vital that founders who consider startup and business visas are aware of this reality. Startup and business visas are not the means to obtain long-term residency/citizenship. It may be in certain countries, but it certainly is not the case with the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa. Remember to assess everything from a “business” perspective, rather than a “residency/immigration” one. What if residency is your goal? Entrepreneurship is not everyone’s forté, and I am not judging you for that. Perhaps you do wish to invest in commercial projects whilst obtaining an additional residency or citizenship. In these cases, it is better to consider residency or citizenship by investment programs offered by several countries across the world. Do not pursue a business or startup visa if your main priority is residency. Running a business has many uncertainties, and it should always be done for the purpose of generating profit unless we are speaking of non-profits. Any other goal is foundationally wrong for doing so. 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, and mainly with obtaining endorsements from the endorsing bodies.
What moving abroad alone as a 17-year-old immigrant taught me
I will always consider myself an “immigrant”, partly because I refuse any negative connotation in relation to this term; I was born and raised in Iran. At the age of 17, I packed my entire life and got on a plane to the UK in pursuit of further education, all alone. Well, every story starts somewhere, and my immigration story began shortly after I finished High School in Iran. Initially, I moved to Manchester on a student visa to attend college/pre-university preparation. My educational journey came to an end when I was 22 and obtained my master’s degree in law from Newcastle University. Shortly after, I developed a business idea based on my experience with renting accommodation as an international student, which later became StudyFlats. This idea was supported by Newcastle University and got me a 1-year visa as a graduate international entrepreneur. Subsequently, I obtained a three-year visa (which led to my settlement after it ended). During this period, I scaled StudyFlats to over 30 UK cities, hired a team of four and managed a global client base across property sites around the UK. Going through the business immigration journey was one of the most difficult journeys that I could embark on. It profoundly changed my worldview, self-perspective and professional skill set. There are some big lessons that I learnt along the way. My hope is for these to resonate with others experiencing the same hardships or learning curve, and to raise awareness of the immigration narrative from an entrepreneurial and personal perspective. You are at a disadvantage, in many things… Yes, this is a fact, nor is this some “woke/snowflake” rant. Racism, discrimination and prejudice exist in the UK. They can be witnessed within many fabrics of the society, such as: -Housing -Employment -Healthcare -Media Of course, each person’s experience is unique. One individual may only encounter discrimination and racism in one area but not necessarily in another. The argument is that discrimination exists and it can become a professional and personal barrier. Personally, I may have been lucky or privileged to not experience many of these. However, the journey of being an immigrant certainly taught me about what discrimination looks like. You think more about the world One side effect of a multinational and global personal perspective is that it forces you to think more. You compare different nations and question how and why they come to differ. This will lead to even more questions. How did they come to differ? What differentiates the two societies and the way they are administered? These are examples of questions that you may have, and it’s a good thing. These questions, and comparative outlook, will contribute to your growth and level of knowledge. The question of “identity” This is perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of being an immigrant, or you could also say a “global citizen”. Once you spend long enough in another country/ your new “home”, you will undergo a series of changes. After a while, it just seems like you don’t fully belong anywhere. Your identity is now a reflection of different, and sometimes contrasting, viewpoints. Whilst inconvenient, such experiences will either make or break you. These are some of the things that I learnt as an immigrant who moved to the UK alone at the age of 17…Now I help other aspiring global citizens start their businesses abroad. 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 which I scaled to over 30 UK cities. I currently help other entrepreneurs and businesses of all size across several domains. For my credentials, please see here.