VisaDoc lands six-figure seed to scale business visa platform

VisaDoc, a travel technology startup, has raised a six-figure seed round from NPIF II — Mercia Equity Finance, managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. The fund is operated by the British Business Bank.

Launched in March, VisaDoc's platform automates the business visa application process, helping companies create, validate, and manage applications across more than 190 destinations. It also gives employers greater visibility over employee travel.

The platform has been adopted by more than 100 global organisations, including Toyota, Anglo American, RELX plc, and the Civil Aviation Authority. It was founded by James Tomlin and Oleh Voronko, who previously held senior roles at a US-based visa services provider.

The round comes as many countries tighten visa requirements, raising the stakes for firms sending staff abroad. "At best, staff may be denied entry to a country — at worst they can be fined, permanently banned or even end up in jail," Tomlin said.

The funding will help VisaDoc meet growing demand ahead of a larger round planned for next year. As part of its scaleup, the company is preparing to establish a team in Leeds.

Mercia's involvement anchors the round. "We believe it could transform this part of the business travel market," said Mattia Scalabrin, investor at Mercia Ventures, adding the firm is pleased to support the founders "as they prepare to raise a larger funding round."

The British Business Bank frames the deal as regional strategy, backing a Northern startup selling into international markets. "By backing these businesses we are stimulating job creation and regional growth in the North," said Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at the bank.