Director of a Company

[Ali272]

Hi,

One of my friends is on Tier 4 General visa. He recently became director of a UK registered company but not a shareholder. The company is owned by his father who lives overseas. He wants to become a director as many banks require a UK resident director to open a business account.

Is this allowed under Tier 4 rules?

Thanks.

[Casa]

No.

"Engaging in Business Activity
A Tier 4 visa does not allow you to engage in business activity. The Home Office defines this as working
for a business in a capacity other than an employee in which you have a financial or other significant
beneficial interest. You would not be permitted, for example, to set up a business that is trading or has a
trading presence, be employed by a company in which you hold shares of 10% or more or work for a
company where you hold a statutory role, such as a director. This is not an exhaustive list but provides
examples of the types of circumstance in which you would be considered to be engaged in business
activity."

[Ali272]

Thank you.