UK Investor Visa: How to apply for a Tier 1 (Investor) Visa

The UK Tier 1 Investor visa is a settlement visa designed for affluent individuals seeking to relocate to Great Britain. With a minimum investment of £2 million, applicants can enjoy nearly unrestricted freedom in the UK, and the possibility of applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in as little as 2 years, leading to British citizenship within 5 years.

Key Features of the UK Tier 1 Investor Visa:

1. Investment Requirements: A minimum investment of £2 million is required, with potential for accelerated settlement based on higher investment amounts (£5 million for ILR in 3 years, £10 million for ILR in 2 years).

2. Application Process: The initial visa is granted for 3 years and 4 months (or 3 years if processed in the UK). Extensions can be applied for, and eligibility for permanent settlement (ILR) is achievable after 5 years.

3. Advantages of the UK Investor Visa:

   • Fast Application Process: Typically completed within 3 months, with a priority service option for a decision within 15 days.
   • Inclusion of Dependents: Spouses, unmarried partners, and minor children can be included in the visa application.
   • No Work Experience or English Test: Applicants are not required to demonstrate work experience, educational qualifications, or English proficiency.
   • Flexible Residency Options: Investors and their families can work, study, or choose leisure in the UK while benefiting from the country’s high standards of living.
   • Investment Control: Investors have the freedom to decide where to invest, with the option to sell shares and recoup the investment after the visa period.
   • Path to Citizenship: A route to British citizenship is available, with eligibility to apply after 5 years for investments exceeding £5 million.

4. Limitations on Professional Activities: While investors have considerable freedom, they are restricted from working as doctors, dentists, professional sportsmen, or coaches. Additionally, social benefits cannot be claimed.

5. Application Requirements:

   • Applicants must be over 18.
   • Access to £2 to £10 million or more is required, held in a foreign or UK bank account.
   • Funds must be legally sourced, with proof required for those held for less than 2 years.
   • Criminal record certificate, tuberculosis test, and background checks are mandatory.
   • Investment account in a regulated UK financial institution must be opened.

6. Dependent Eligibility: Spouses and children under 18 can be included as eligible dependents.

7. Investment Amount: The minimum investment is £2,000,000.

8. Processing Time: A priority service is available for a decision within 15 days, while standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks for entry clearance applications.

9. Permanent Residence: Permanent residence in the UK can be obtained in 5 years.

10. British Passport: Eligibility for a British passport is attainable after obtaining indefinite leave to remain.

The UK Tier 1 Investor visa offers a swift and flexible pathway for high-net-worth individuals seeking settlement in Great Britain.