Investor Visa Route: What You Need to Know

The Investor Visa route, previously known as the Tier 1 (Investor) Visa, allowed high-net-worth individuals to reside in the UK by making significant investments in the country. However, this route was closed in February 2022 due to concerns about links to illicit finance and hostile state actors.

Despite its closure, the route remains open for those who already hold an Investor Visa, enabling them to extend their permission and, ultimately, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The requirements can be complex, so we have outlined the key points below.

Extension Applications

Any extension applications must be submitted on or before 17 February 2026. With this deadline fast approaching, it is crucial for current Tier 1 Investor visa holders to understand the requirements to maintain their status.

To be eligible for an extension, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old, with assets and investments wholly under their control.
• Currently hold, or have last been granted, leave as a Tier 1 (Investor) migrant.
• Demonstrate that:
  • They have at least £2 million under their control in the UK.
  • These funds have been invested in share capital or loan capital in active UK companies.
  • The investment was made within three months of entering the UK or receiving the Investor Visa.

Applicants must provide investment portfolio reports showing compliance with these requirements throughout their visa period. Failure to maintain investments could result in ineligibility for an extension.

Dependants, including partners and children, can also apply for extensions via separate applications. Successful applicants will receive a further two years’ leave to remain.

Settlement Applications

The deadline for settlement applications under this route is 17 February 2028. Unlike some other routes, such as Global Talent, only time spent under the Investor Visa category counts towards settlement.

Applicants must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period, and the required continuous residence depends on the investment amount:

The investment must have been made no more than 12 months before the initial successful application and maintained throughout the qualifying period.

Applicants must also meet the English language requirement and pass the Life in the UK Test. If these requirements cannot be met by February 2026, consider applying for an extension to secure your stay before the 2028 deadline.

The Future of the Investor Visa

Although the route closed in 2022, there is ongoing discussion about whether it may reopen with reforms addressing national security concerns and the sources of applicants’ funds.

If you currently hold permission under the Investor visa route and require assistance with an application for extension of your leave or for settlement, our team of experts can assist you. Please do not hesitate to contact a member of the team for further information.