Tier 1 Entrepreneur VisaThe Route to Nationality

For business people (can be a team of two) who want to relocate to the UK

Invest in UK businesses (new or existing) and to create jobs

A minimum investment of £200,000 to be invested per team.

Leads to indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence)

Leads to nationality

Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa – Overview

The Route to British Nationality

3 year initial visa for the UK

2 year extension

Indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence) at the end of the 5 years or in some cases after 3 years

Nationality to follow

How Do I Get The Initial 3 Year Visa ?

Need to show that you have access to £200,000,

Need to show funds are disposable in the UK and that the funds are held in a regulated account

Need to demonstrate that you are “Genuine Entrepreneur”

English language –IELTS 4.0 score needed

Maintenance – 3,100 for main applicant and 1800 for each dependent for 3 months

What Do I Have To Show At The End Of The 3 Years To Get The Extension?

Over the first 3 years must have invested £200,000

Created 2 full time jobs in the UK

Registered in business within 6 months of entry to the UK

Currently be engaged in business activity

Specific evidence - audited accounts to be provided as well further evidence of the business and its activities

What Are The Types Of Businesses That I Can Invest In ?

No property investment

No property management

Construction is allowed

Business must be based in UK

Franchise businesses are permitted

Create a new business or investment in current UK business

When Can I Apply For Indefinite Leave To Remain (Permanent Residence)?

After you have successfully completed 5 years in the UK you will be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain

You will need to demonstrate that you have not spent more than 180 days (6 months) per year outside the UK during the 5 year period.

What Is Accelerated Settlement?

In certain circumstances successful entrepreneurs can apply for indefinite leave to remain early !

If a business shows that within 3 years it has an income of 5 million pounds or has created 10 full time jobs, the entrepreneur can get indefinite leave to remain within 3 years.

Nationality

One year after you have been granted indefinite leave (i.e. in the 6th year of your stay in the UK) to remain you will be eligible to make your British citizenship application.

If you were granted indefinite leave to remain on the accelerated basis you can apply in the 5th year of your stay in the UK.

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