The old Tier 1 (Investor) visa is closed to new applicants. This page sets out the current position, the routes that replaced it, and the investment-led options that still work for founders today.
Allowed
English at B2 or above
60 to 150 working days
GBP 1,200
The UK student visa is for people going on to study at a university or college in Britain. You need an offer from a licensed UK education provider before you can apply.
To visit the UK for tourism or to attend a trade event you apply for a standard visitor visa. It is usually issued for 6 months, it does not allow you to work, and you must leave when it expires.
1Check your eligibility and choose the right route
2Sign the engagement and open your file
3Prepare and translate documents, then book the consular appointment
4Visa decision, arrival and settling-in support
No. The Tier 1 (Investor) route is closed to new applicants.
The deadlines for extension and settlement applications are set by the Home Office. Check gov.uk for the dates that apply to your permission.
The Innovator Founder visa is the main alternative. There is no fixed investment figure; the funding you need is judged against your business plan, which in practice usually means tens of thousands of pounds or more.
No. You need enough funding to deliver the plan you are endorsed for.
After at least 3 years of successful trading.
Have your UK profile reviewed now, free of charge. A careful check before you file is what prevents a refusal and a second round of fees.
