The UK’s visa system is divided into tiers based on the individual’s circumstances (e.g. reason for being in the UK, duration of stay), and eligibility for a start up loan depends on which visa you have. If you are residing in the UK on any of the following visa tiers, you will not be eligible for a start up loan. Tier 1 (high-value migrants, all categories) Tier 2 (skilled workers, all categories) Tier 4 (students) Tier 5 (temporary workers) Domestic Workers on a Private Household Representative of an Overseas Business Other visa categories may be eligible, however if you require confirmation of your eligibility please visit the government’s visa website. If you hold an ancestry visa or a visa that states “no recourse to public funds”, you should be eligible for a start up loan. It is important to remember that if your visa does make you eligible, your application must allow you to pay the loan back in full within 12 months of your visa’s expiration date.