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Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa Guidance
The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa category of the Points-Based System was designed for individuals seeking to invest in the United Kingdom by setting up, taking over, and actively managing one or more businesses in the UK.This visa category aimed to attract entrepreneurial talent to contribute to the UK’s economic growth.
Contact us for expert assistance with your Entrepreneur visa application.
Eligibility Criteria for the UK Entrepreneur Visa
To apply for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, you must meet specific requirements. You need access to investment funds of at least £50,000 or £200,000, depending on your circumstances. These funds must be held in one or more regulated financial institutions and be freely available (“disposable”) to invest in a UK business.
If utilizing third-party funds, they can come from family members, other investors, or corporate bodies, whether within the UK or overseas. Additionally, you must demonstrate your English language proficiency by passing an approved test at CEFR Level B1, holding a degree taught in English equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
It’s also essential to prove you have sufficient personal savings to support yourself while in the UK, with required amounts varying based on where you apply from.
You need £200,000 from personal or third-party sources to invest in a UK business venture.
Show English skills by passing a test or holding a degree taught in English.
Demonstrate sufficient personal savings to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
Regulated Financial Institutions Investment funds must be in regulated institutions and free to spend in the UK.
Contact Salam Immigration for expert assistance with your Entrepreneur Visa application.
Services We Provide
Visa Application Support
We guide you through your Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa application, ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Investment Fund Verification
We verify your investment funds meet UK regulations and are legally accessible for investment purposes.
Business Plan Development
Our experts help you develop compelling business plans to enhance your visa application’s success.
Table of Contents
- Innovator Founder Visa Guidance
- Eligibility Criteria
- Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa Guidance
- Required Documents for the Innovator Visa
- Family Members Joining You Under the Innovator Visa
- Start-up Visa Eligibility
- Required Documents for the Start-up Visa
- Start-up Visa Costs
- Processing Time for Start-up Visa
- How Salam Immigration Can Help
- Can My Family Join Me Under a Start-up Visa?
- What Is the Investor Visa?
- Can I Switch to the Innovator Visa from Another UK Visa?
- Can I Switch to the Start-up Visa from Another UK Visa?
- How Long Can I Stay in the UK with an Innovator Visa?
- How Long Can I Stay in the UK with a Start-up Visa?
- Can I Still Apply for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa or Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa?
Innovator Founder Visa Guidance
The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs seeking to establish an innovative business in the UK. This visa provides a pathway for entrepreneurs to settle in the UK while contributing to business growth and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must:
- Have a business idea endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body.
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Meet the English language requirement (CEFR Level B2 or equivalent).
- Demonstrate financial sufficiency to support themselves in the UK.
- Actively engage in developing and managing their UK business.
This visa replaces the former Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, offering more flexibility and support for innovative business ventures.
Benefits of the Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder Visa is granted for three years, with the opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after this period. Successful applicants can settle in the UK, expand their business, and eventually apply for British citizenship.
Want to check your eligibility status? Contact Us Now!
Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa Guidance
Please Note: The Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa category is closed to new applicants as of 29th March 2019. It has been replaced by the Innovator Visa for entrepreneurs wishing to establish a business in the UK. However, if you currently hold a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, you may still apply for extensions or settlement under this route.
Innovator Visa Business Endorsement Requirements
Before beginning your Innovator Visa application, you must have your business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body. These bodies are organisations with a proven track record of supporting UK entrepreneurs, including reputable venture capital firms and business development organisations.
Endorsing bodies will assess your business idea based on three key criteria:
- Innovation You need to present a genuine, original business plan that meets new or existing market needs and will benefit the UK economy.
- Viability You must demonstrate that you have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to run the business successfully.
- Scalability Your business should have potential for growth and job creation within the UK market.
Required Documents for the Innovator Visa
When applying for the Innovator Visa, you will need to provide several documents. These include:
- Valid Passport or Travel Document Ensure your passport has at least one blank page for the visa.
- Endorsement Letter An official letter from an approved endorsing body confirming they have endorsed your business idea.
- Evidence of Investment Funds Proof that you have at least £50,000 in investment funds, which are available and free to spend on your business in the UK.
- English Language Proficiency Evidence that you meet the CEFR Level B2 in English, either through a recognised test or an academic qualification taught in English.
- Maintenance Funds Bank statements showing you have at least £1,270 in personal savings held for 28 consecutive days prior to your application.
- Tuberculosis Test Results If you're from a country where you have to take a TB test.
Innovator Visa Costs
- Application Fee
- £1,036 if applying from outside the UK.
- £1,292 if applying from inside the UK.
- Healthcare Surcharge An annual fee as part of your application, usually £624 per year.
- Biometric Information Fee A fee of £19.20 for providing your fingerprints and photograph.
Processing Time
- Applying from Outside the UK You should get a decision within three weeks.
- Applying from Inside the UK A decision is usually made within eight weeks.
If there are any issues with your application, processing may take longer.
Family Members Joining You Under the Innovator Visa
Your immediate family members (dependants) can apply to join or remain with you in the UK. Dependants include:
- Your Partner Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
- Your Children
- Under 18 years old.
- Over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependant.
Maintenance Funds for Dependants
You must show additional funds to support your dependants:
- £285 for your partner.
- £315 for one child.
- £200 for each additional child.
These funds need to be held for 28 consecutive days before the application.
Get in touch now to learn about how to bring family under innovator visa.
Start-up Visa Eligibility
If you’re a new entrepreneur without access to £50,000 investment funds, the Start-up Visa may be suitable for you.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age Requirement You must be at least 18 years old.
- Endorsement You need an endorsement from an approved body, such as a UK higher education institution or a business organisation with a history of supporting UK entrepreneurs.
- Business Idea Your business must be:
- New: You cannot join or invest in a business that is already trading.
- Innovative: Offering something different from anything else on the market.
- Business Idea Your business must be:
- English Language Proficiency Meet the CEFR Level B2 in English.
- Maintenance Funds Have at least £1,270 in personal savings.
Required Documents for the Start-up Visa
- Valid Passport or Travel Document
- Endorsement Letter
- Proof of Personal Savings
- English Language Evidence
- Tuberculosis Test Results (if applicable)
Start-up Visa Costs
- Application Fee
- £378 if applying from outside the UK.
- £508 if applying from inside the UK.
- Dependants Each family member will need to pay the application fee.
- Healthcare Surcharge Usually £624 per year.18
Processing Time for Start-up Visa
- Applying from Outside the UK Decision within three weeks.
- Applying from Inside the UK Decision within eight weeks.
How Salam Immigration Can Help
Navigating the UK immigration system can be complex. Salam Immigration is here to assist you every step of the way.
- Expert Advice We assess your eligibility and advise on the best visa route for your circumstances.
- Business Plan Assistance Our team helps you prepare a compelling business plan to meet endorsement criteria.
- Endorsement Support Guidance on securing an endorsement from an approved body.
- Application Preparation We help gather required documents and complete your application to the highest standard.
- Ongoing Support Assistance with visa extensions and applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Need expert guidance for your Innovator or Start-up Visa? Call our immigration specialists.
Can My family Join me Under a Start-up Visa?
If your Start-up Visa application is approved, certain family members can accompany you to the UK as your dependants.
A dependant family member can be:
- Your spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner
- Your child under 18 years old
- Your child over 18 years old, if they are already in the UK as your dependant
When bringing dependants to the UK, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support them. In addition to the personal maintenance requirement of £945 for yourself, you need to have at least £630 for each dependant.
Dependants can apply from outside the UK or, if eligible, from within the UK. They will need to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, as part of their application process.
What is the Investor Visa?
The Investor Visa is designed for individuals who wish to make a substantial financial investment in the UK. To qualify, you must have access to at least £2,000,000 in investment funds.
Key details of the Investor Visa include:
- Application Fee: The standard application fee is £1,623.
- Duration: The visa is initially granted for three years and four months and can be extended.
- Settlement Opportunities: The Investor Visa offers a faster route to settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain) depending on the amount invested:
- Settle after 2 years when investing £10 million
- Settle after 3 years when investing £5 million
- Settle after 5 years when investing £2 million
This visa category provides more favourable conditions compared to many other UK visas, making it an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals.
Can I Switch to the Innovator Visa from Another UK Visa?
Yes, it is possible to switch to the Innovator Visa from certain other UK visas, provided you meet all eligibility requirements. Eligible visas include:
- Start-up Visa
- Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
- Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa
- Any Tier 2 Visa
- Standard Visitor Visa (only if you came to the UK to get funding and have a supporting letter from an endorsing body)
Please note that to be eligible for the Innovator Visa, you must have an endorsement for your innovative business idea from an approved endorsing body.
As long as you apply for the Innovator Visa before your current visa expires, you can remain in the UK until a decision is made on your application.
Can I Switch to the Start-up Visa from Another UK Visa?
Yes, switching to the Start-up Visa from certain other UK visas is possible if you meet the eligibility criteria. Eligible visas include:
- Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa
- Any Tier 2 Visa
- Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
- Standard Visitor Visa (you must have a supporting letter from an endorsing body confirming you're seeking funding)
If you switch from the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa to the Start-up Visa, any time already spent in the UK under that visa will count towards the two-year maximum stay permitted by the Start-up Visa.
Applications to switch to the Start-up Visa from within the UK typically take up to eight weeks for the Home Office to process.
Want to switch to Start-up Visa from another Visa? Get in touch with expert to check your options.
How Long Can I Stay in the UK with an Innovator Visa?
The Innovator Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to three years. Before it expires, you can apply to extend your Innovator Visa for another three years, with no limit on the number of extensions.
After spending five years in the UK on an Innovator Visa, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent settlement.
Once you have held ILR for one year, you may be able to apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting the naturalisation requirements.
How Long Can I Stay in the UK with a Start-up Visa?
The Start-up Visa permits you to reside in the UK for up to two years. Unlike the Innovator Visa, the Start-up Visa cannot be extended.
If you wish to remain in the UK after your Start-up Visa expires, you will need to switch to another visa category, such as the Innovator Visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I Still Apply for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa or Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa?
No, it is no longer possible to apply for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa or the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa, as these routes have been closed to new applicants.
However, if you currently hold a valid Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa granted before April 2019, you may still be able to:
- Extend your existing Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
- Switch to the Innovator Visa or Start-up Visa, provided you meet the eligibility requirements
Time spent in the UK under a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa or Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa can count towards the residency requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain and British citizenship.
Contact Salam Immigration for Expert Assistance
If you need support with your visa application or advice on your immigration options, our experienced solicitors are here to help. We provide tailored guidance to ensure you navigate the UK immigration system with confidence.
You can reach us at our offices in London, Manchester, or Birmingham, or use our office finder to locate your nearest branch.
We offer immigration advice sessions as face-to-face appointments at all our UK offices or via telephone consultations.
Written By SalamImmigration
Samera Akhtar
Solicitor-Branch Manager
Samera Akhtar is an Expert Immigration Lawyer at Axis Solicitors. She also serves as a Compliance Officer for Legal and Administration with Axis Solicitors Limited. Samera specializes in Immigration law. Her extensive knowledge and expertise enable her to provide clients with effective legal solutions and comprehensive guidance in their immigration matters.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive for accuracy, laws may change, and the content may not always reflect the latest legal developments. No guarantees are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and we accept no liability for any reliance placed on it. We recommend consulting a qualified lawyer at Salam Immigration before making any decisions based on this information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much investment is required for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa?
Applicants must have at least £50,000 (if applicable) or £200,000 in investment funds, which must be held in a regulated financial institution and be freely available for business purposes in the UK.
2. Can I apply with investment from a third party?
Yes. Investment funds can come from:
- Family members (UK or overseas)
- Individual investors
- Corporate entities
3. Can my family join me on a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa?
Yes. Your spouse/partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants. They will have access to free healthcare and education, and your partner can work in the UK.
4. Can I switch to a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa from another visa category?
Yes, you can switch from certain visa categories, including Tier 2 (General Work Visa) and other eligible routes, while already residing in the UK.
5. What happens if my visa is refused?
If your visa is refused, you may be able to request an administrative review. We provide expert legal representation to assess your case and explore further options.
Why Choose Salam Immigration for Your Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa?
At Salam Immigration, we specialise in helping entrepreneurs secure their Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa with expert guidance. Our experienced team ensures that your business plan, investment proof, and application meet all Home Office requirements. We provide tailored support to maximise your chances of success, whether you’re applying for the first time, extending your visa, or switching to another route. With our expertise, you can focus on growing your business while we handle your immigration needs.
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Applying for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Salam Immigration, we offer personalised advice and comprehensive assistance throughout the process. If you’re ready to establish or expand your business in the UK, get in touch with us today. Call, email, or book a consultation with our immigration specialists to discuss your case and take the next step towards success.
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