This route was designed for migrants who wishing to establish, join or take over one or more businesses in the UK.
The scheme closed for new applicants in March 2019, however it remains open for extension applications and for indefinite leave to remain.
The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) scheme enables enterprising people from all over the world to invest in their own business in the UK and obtain long-term residence. Having presented a viable and persuasive business plan, entrepreneurs must invest GBP 200K in the UK and create employment for at least two settled workers.
Subject to residence requirements, entrepreneurs who set up their business and reside in the UK for a five year period can apply for indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence) and ultimately British citizenship for themselves and their family.
The Home Office imposes a high level of refusals for unrepresented applicants. This is the result of complex evidence and document requirements. We will unravel the complexities of the scheme and guide you through every stage of the process providing peace of mind throughout the UK immigration journey to long-term residence.
The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) category was closed to new applicants on 29 March 2019 but those who already have leave to remain in this category can still extend their leave until 5 April 2023 or apply for settlement until 5 April 2025.
Extend or Settle?
There are different options available to entrepreneurs depending on how their businesses have performed during the initial three-year period of stay. If the business has performed exceptionally, successful entrepreneurs may be eligible to apply for expedited settlement rather than an extension of leave to remain in the category.
Extension Applications
Entrepreneurs can normally extend their leave to remain in the UK if they have:
- Invested the capital evidenced in the initial application;
- Registered as a director of one or more companies in the UK; and
- Established a new business or taken over or invested into an existing business that has created at least two new full time jobs for settled workers that have lasted a year.
Settlement Applications
Entrepreneurs can normally apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) if they have:
- Completed five years in the entrepreneur category;
- Remain registered as a director of one or more companies in the UK; and
- Can show that they have employed two settled workers for at least one further year.
Expedited Settlement
Applicants may be able to apply for settlement on completion of three years if they can:
- Show they have established a new UK business or taken over or invested into a business which has had a gross income (or a new increase in income) from business activity of at least £5 million; or
- Show they have created at least 10 new full time jobs for settled workers which have existed for at least one year.
How can we assist you?
The documentary evidence required to extend or settle in the UK as an entrepreneur is extensive and complex. Our team can guide you through the specific evidential requirements to ensure documents are compliant with the rules. We can liaise with accountants and human resource departments (where applicable) to make sure that everything is clear from the outset and assist with the smooth running of the application process from beginning to end.
For more information on how we can support you, contact us today to speak with our specialist team.
