The UK offers several investment-based visa options for entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and business investors. However, the Tier 1 Investor Visa was closed in 2022, and the UK now provides alternative routes for investment-based immigration.

Here are the main UK investor visa options:

1. Innovator Founder Visa (For Business Investors & Entrepreneurs)

The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish a new, innovative business in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

• ✔ Business Idea: Must be innovative, scalable, and viable, approved by a UK endorsing body.
• ✔ Investment Requirement: No fixed minimum investment, but you must show sufficient funds to develop your business.
• ✔ Endorsement Required: A UK government-approved endorsing body must assess and approve your business plan.
• ✔ English Language Requirement: Must meet B2 level English proficiency.

Benefits of the Innovator Founder Visa

• ✅ 3-year visa leading to UK permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR).
• ✅ No set investment amount—focus is on innovation, not capital.
• ✅ Family benefits – spouse and children can move with you.
• ✅ Fast-track settlement – Eligible for ILR in 3 years and British citizenship in 5 years.

Application Process

• 1️⃣ Develop a Business Plan & Get Endorsement
• 2️⃣ Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa
• 3️⃣ Start and Scale Your Business in the UK
• 4️⃣ Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 3 years
• 5️⃣ Apply for British Citizenship after 5 years

2. UK Expansion Worker Visa (For Business Expansion in the UK)

If you already own a business abroad and want to expand into the UK, you can apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa.

Eligibility Criteria

• ✔ Business Expansion: Must be an existing business outside the UK, looking to establish a UK branch.
• ✔ Investment Funds: No minimum amount, but you need enough to operate in the UK.
• ✔ Sponsorship Requirement: The UK branch must sponsor the visa.

Key Benefits

• ✅ Start a UK branch of your existing business.
• ✅ Visa valid for up to 2 years.
• ✅ Pathway to Skilled Worker Visa & Permanent Residency.

3. UK Global Talent Visa (For High-Net-Worth Entrepreneurs & Investors)

The Global Talent Visa is for individuals with exceptional skills in business, technology, science, or the arts. It does not have a specific investment requirement, but investors with industry expertise can qualify.

• ✅ No investment amount required.
• ✅ Fast-track to UK residency (ILR in 3 years).
• ✅ Work, start a business, or invest in the UK without sponsorship.

Which UK Investor Visa is Right for You?

• 🔹 Choose Innovator Founder Visa if you want to start a business in the UK with an innovative idea.
• 🔹 Choose UK Expansion Worker Visa if you already own a business and want to establish a UK branch.
• 🔹 Choose Global Talent Visa if you are a high-net-worth entrepreneur with industry recognition.

Need Help Applying?

Our team can guide you through the best UK investor visa option based on your business goals and investment plans. Contact us today for expert consultation!