If you’re considering moving to the UK for business or investment reasons, you might have come across the Tier 1 visa.
Although the UK has restructured many of its immigration routes in recent years, the Tier 1 visa category still comes up in conversations around entrepreneurs, investors, and global talent.
Here’s a straightforward guide to what the Tier 1 visa used to offer, what’s still active, and how the process works today.
What is the UK Tier 1 Visa?
The Tier 1 visa was originally part of the UK’s points-based immigration system, designed to attract high-value migrants — people who could contribute significantly to the UK economy. There were several subcategories under Tier 1, including:
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Tier 1 (Investor)
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Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)
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Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur)
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Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent)
However, many of these routes have now been closed and replaced with newer visas such as the Innovator Founder visa, the Global Talent visa, and the Start-up visa.
That said, if you’re currently on a Tier 1 visa or want to understand the legacy system (especially for settlement or extension purposes), it’s worth knowing how it worked.
Tier 1 (Investor) Visa – [Closed to new applicants since February 2022]
This route was for individuals willing to invest £2 million or more in the UK. Although no longer open to new applicants, those already on this visa may still be eligible to extend or apply for settlement.
Key Requirements (when it was open):
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Investment of at least £2 million in UK government bonds, share capital, or loan capital in active UK companies.
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The money had to be held in a regulated financial institution and freely transferable to the UK.
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No English language requirement.
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Minimum age: 18.
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa – [Closed to new applicants since March 2019]
This was aimed at individuals wanting to set up or take over a business in the UK. It has been replaced by the Innovator Founder visa.
Previous Requirements:
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At least £50,000 or £200,000 in investment funds (depending on the source).
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A genuine and viable business idea.
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English language proficiency (at least CEFR level B1).
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Maintenance funds to support yourself.
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – Now the Global Talent Visa
This is the only subcategory that has evolved rather than shut down. It’s for individuals recognised as leaders or potential leaders in fields like science, engineering, tech, and the arts.
How the Global Talent Visa Works:
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No job offer needed.
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Requires endorsement from an approved UK body (like Tech Nation, Arts Council England, or the Royal Society).
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Applicants can live and work freely in the UK and apply for settlement faster than with many other visa types.
Application Process (for existing Tier 1 visa holders)
If you’re already in the UK on a Tier 1 visa, you may still be eligible to:
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Extend your visa, provided you meet the extension criteria.
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Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a certain period, usually 2 to 5 years depending on your route and investment level.
Documents You May Need:
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Proof of your investment or business activities.
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Bank statements showing available funds.
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A valid passport and biometric residence permit.
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English language test results (if applicable).
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A tuberculosis test certificate (for residents of certain countries).
What If You’re a New Applicant?
If you’re not already in the UK on a Tier 1 visa, consider these current alternatives:
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Innovator Founder visa – For experienced entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea.
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Global Talent visa – For individuals recognised as leaders in their fields.
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Skilled Worker visa – For people with job offers from UK employers in eligible occupations.
Final Thoughts
While the Tier 1 visa route is mostly closed, it played a major role in attracting high-net-worth individuals and talented professionals to the UK. If you’re already on a Tier 1 visa, it’s important to stay on top of extension and settlement deadlines.
For new applicants, the UK’s current system may seem more selective, but it still offers exciting opportunities — especially if you have an innovative business idea or recognised expertise in your field.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help navigating the application, it’s always a good idea to speak with an immigration adviser or solicitor.