The Tier 1 Investor Visa is a category for high-net-worth individuals making a substantial financial investment of a minimum of £2 million-plus in the UK. The advantages of the Visa are that it does not require the applicant to satisfy English Language requirements .
Additionally, whilst all other points-based category visas require the applicant to show minimum funds for maintenance, an applicant for an investor visas will not need to show any funds for maintenance because if the investment funds are available, it goes without saying that applicants will be able to support themselves in the UK without relying on or reverting to public funds.
Eligibility for the Tier 1 Investor Visa
You must have at least £2,000,000 investment funds to apply for a Tier 1 (Investor) visa
If you are successful you will be granted to remain in the UK for 3 years. After this you will be able to apply for an extension provided all criteria are met. You will be allowed to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent settlement) after 5 years of having a Tier 1 Investor visa. However, this can be granted earlier if you invest more money. If you invest 10 million you can receive permanent residency in the UK after 2 years, or if you invest 5 million the time-period is 3 years.
You must :
be over the age of 18 to apply for this visa.
be able to prove that the money belongs to either you or your husband, wife, unmarried or same sex partner.
have opened an account at a UK regulated bank to use for your funds.
Your funds must be:
held in one or more regulated financial institutions.
free to spend (‘disposable’) in the UK.
Your money can be in the UK or overseas when you apply.
What sources of funds will be Acceptable for the Investment?
Other than income from employment or self-employment, there are various other funds that will be acceptable to the Home Office for investment purposes, and they are for example: – Gifts; deeds of sale; evidence from a business; will; divorce settlement; award-winning, may all be considered as other sources for which specified evidence will be required.
Students with Financial Sponsorship
If you are a student, you may be able to apply for a Tier 1 (Investor) visa if you’re already in the UK and you are a Tier 4 (General) visa holder.You must have an unconditional agreement in writing from your financial sponsor to re-enter or stay in the UK if your course fees and living costs were paid by either:
a government
an international scholarship agency
We will provide you with tailored advice to your specific case scenario to ensure that the Immigration Requirements are met. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require any assistance with your application.
