Common misconceptions about immigration to the UK
Unveiling the most common myths about immigration and doing business
in the UK.
in the UK.
Britain remains one of the most popular choices for immigration among entrepreneurs. However, recently we have noticed an increase in misinformation about British immigration opportunities spread by specialists in other European destinations. Let's discuss the most common ones.
Myth 1: Immigration to the UK has become impossible due to stringent immigration rules
In reality, the UK continues to attract talented and skilled professionals from around the world. Despite some complex immigration rules, there are several visa routes that provide comfortable immigration opportunities to the country. These include:
Myth 2: Brexit has completely closed the doors for migrants from the EU
If you once preferred an EU country but now wish to immigrate to the United Kingdom, there is no need to worry. While Brexit has led to changes in immigration policy, many European citizens can still immigrate to the UK. There are a number of programs that provide the right to reside and work in the United Kingdom. Additional information can be found on the official website of the UK government.
Myth 3: It is impossible to do business with EU companies while living in the UK
The UK offers ample opportunities for doing business with companies in the European Union. Firstly, the UK has a long history of close economic ties with EU countries, providing a stable and predictable environment for commercial operations. Secondly, due to its former EU membership, the UK adhered to common rules and standards that facilitated trade and investment among member states. Despite leaving the EU, many of these rules are maintained or replaced by similar national norms, ensuring continuity and stability of business operations. Moreover, many companies in the UK have extensive networks and partnerships in Europe, facilitating access to new markets and business expansion. Banking transfers between the UK and EU countries are conducted quickly and without obstacles.
Thus, the UK remains an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations on the European continent.
Myth 4: You need to be extraordinarily wealthy to immigrate to the UK
Indeed, the UK sets high income and financial resource requirements for some types of visas, but this does not mean that immigration to the country is only accessible to the very wealthy. The UK has developed business financing programs and tax incentives for entrepreneurs, making the country open to ambitious businessmen. If we are planning to expand our business in the UK, our experts at Goldman Solutions are ready to assist with relocation and business startup.
Myth 5: The UK does not need immigrants due to its developed economy
Immigrants play a crucial role in the UK economy, providing labor in various sectors including healthcare, education, information technology, and many others. The importance of immigration to the country's economy is recognised by both the government and the business community. Historically, the UK has been a multicultural and multinational country, attracting people from around the world. Immigrants make a significant contribution to the economy, culture, and society of the UK. Many British people welcome and value the diversity brought by foreigners. Currently, more than 10 million migrants live in the UK.
Myth 6: Taxes in the UK are unbearably high
Despite sometimes high tax rates, doing business in the UK remains attractive due to the flexibility of the tax system. The UK has double taxation agreements with many countries, ensuring safe and legal conditions for business without undue financial burdens.
The British location is particularly advantageous for startups engaged in innovative projects in science and technology. Companies involved in research and development activities are exempt from taxes. To qualify for these benefits, companies must meet certain criteria, such as having fewer than 500 employees, turnover less than 100 million euros, or a balance sheet less than 86 million euros.
Companies can also increase their expenses by 240% for every pound spent on research and development, as evaluated by independent organizations.
The United Kingdom also actively supports small businesses from investors. Programmes such as EIS and SEIS provide startups with attractive opportunities to attract investment, as these investments are tax-exempt.
Myth 7: It is very difficult to obtain citizenship in the UK
This is not true at all. Several long-term visas, such as the Innovator Founder, Skilled Worker, and Global Talent visas, provide a direct path to obtaining British citizenship. With the Innovator Founder visa, you can obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residency) after just three years of living in the UK, and later apply for citizenship.
In reality, the UK continues to attract talented and skilled professionals from around the world. Despite some complex immigration rules, there are several visa routes that provide comfortable immigration opportunities to the country. These include:
- The Innovator Founder visa, allowing individuals to start their own business or work in the UK.
- The Global Talent visa for talented individuals.
- The Skilled Worker visa.
Myth 2: Brexit has completely closed the doors for migrants from the EU
If you once preferred an EU country but now wish to immigrate to the United Kingdom, there is no need to worry. While Brexit has led to changes in immigration policy, many European citizens can still immigrate to the UK. There are a number of programs that provide the right to reside and work in the United Kingdom. Additional information can be found on the official website of the UK government.
Myth 3: It is impossible to do business with EU companies while living in the UK
The UK offers ample opportunities for doing business with companies in the European Union. Firstly, the UK has a long history of close economic ties with EU countries, providing a stable and predictable environment for commercial operations. Secondly, due to its former EU membership, the UK adhered to common rules and standards that facilitated trade and investment among member states. Despite leaving the EU, many of these rules are maintained or replaced by similar national norms, ensuring continuity and stability of business operations. Moreover, many companies in the UK have extensive networks and partnerships in Europe, facilitating access to new markets and business expansion. Banking transfers between the UK and EU countries are conducted quickly and without obstacles.
Thus, the UK remains an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations on the European continent.
Myth 4: You need to be extraordinarily wealthy to immigrate to the UK
Indeed, the UK sets high income and financial resource requirements for some types of visas, but this does not mean that immigration to the country is only accessible to the very wealthy. The UK has developed business financing programs and tax incentives for entrepreneurs, making the country open to ambitious businessmen. If we are planning to expand our business in the UK, our experts at Goldman Solutions are ready to assist with relocation and business startup.
Myth 5: The UK does not need immigrants due to its developed economy
Immigrants play a crucial role in the UK economy, providing labor in various sectors including healthcare, education, information technology, and many others. The importance of immigration to the country's economy is recognised by both the government and the business community. Historically, the UK has been a multicultural and multinational country, attracting people from around the world. Immigrants make a significant contribution to the economy, culture, and society of the UK. Many British people welcome and value the diversity brought by foreigners. Currently, more than 10 million migrants live in the UK.
Myth 6: Taxes in the UK are unbearably high
Despite sometimes high tax rates, doing business in the UK remains attractive due to the flexibility of the tax system. The UK has double taxation agreements with many countries, ensuring safe and legal conditions for business without undue financial burdens.
The British location is particularly advantageous for startups engaged in innovative projects in science and technology. Companies involved in research and development activities are exempt from taxes. To qualify for these benefits, companies must meet certain criteria, such as having fewer than 500 employees, turnover less than 100 million euros, or a balance sheet less than 86 million euros.
Companies can also increase their expenses by 240% for every pound spent on research and development, as evaluated by independent organizations.
The United Kingdom also actively supports small businesses from investors. Programmes such as EIS and SEIS provide startups with attractive opportunities to attract investment, as these investments are tax-exempt.
Myth 7: It is very difficult to obtain citizenship in the UK
This is not true at all. Several long-term visas, such as the Innovator Founder, Skilled Worker, and Global Talent visas, provide a direct path to obtaining British citizenship. With the Innovator Founder visa, you can obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residency) after just three years of living in the UK, and later apply for citizenship.
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