Business & Investment

Entrepreneur Visas & Tier 1 Investor Visa

The Start-Up Visa and Innovator Visa are visas that enable an entrepreneur to set up a business in the UK and run it.

The Start-Up Visa requires no financial investment but the business idea does require endorsement, either from a university or a Home Office-recognised endorsement body. Leave is granted for two years but it is not extendable and it does not offer a route to settlement.

The Innovator Visa requires in most cases investment of at least £50,000 and the business idea requires endorsement from a Home Office-recognised endorsement body. The visa is granted for three years, may be extendable, and may lead to settlement after three years if relevant requirements are met.

The Tier 1 Investor Visa is for those who want to invest in UK companies, either by way of shares or loan.

• The minimum investment required for this visa is £2 million.
• If an applicant shows that they intend to invest £2 million they will be granted leave for three years, and after that they may be able to extend their leave for a further two years, and after that they may qualify for settlement. Extension and settlement applications are dependent on the value of the investment being maintained.
• Applicants can settle after three years if they invest £5 million or after two years if they invest £10 million.
• Unlike with other visas, Tier 1 Investor visa applicants are not required to satisfy an English language requirement (although there is such a requirement for settlement applications).

We can assist you all the way through the application process and help you achieve a successful result.