Your Ultimate Guide to Tier 1 UK Visa Category

If you’re considering a move to the UK or switching from your current visa to a work visa, your best option may be the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa.

However, in order to obtain this visa, there are some requirements you may need to meet. Let’s have a closer look at what they are and how they can be satisfied.

Who is allowed to Apply for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa?

Aside from citizens of the UK and EEA and Switzerland, all individuals from other countries are allowed to apply for an entrepreneur visa.

When Should You Apply?

The best time to apply for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa is about three months before you intend to travel. Typically, you will receive a response of a decision for your visa within the first three months.

How Much Does it Cost to Apply?

The cost of applying varies, depending on your situation, how you apply, and where you are located. You may also need to pay a sum for the healthcare surcharge as part of your application.

What is the Duration of a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa?

The maximum time duration for an Entrepreneur visa is three years and four months. After you have your visa, you’re allowed to extend it for an additional two years, provided you remain in the same category.

If you switch from another category you may extend your visit for another three years. You are also allowed to apply for an ‘indefinite leave to remain’ which you can qualify for after you’ve lived in the UK for five years.

What Can You Do Under an Entrepreneur Visa?

You may:

• Bring family members to the UK with you
• You may set up and work for your own business i.e. be self-employed
• You may set up and manage more than one business

What Can You NOT Do Under an Entrepreneur Visa?

You may not:

• Get public funds
• Be employed by someone else’s business or work for someone else

Am I Eligible?

You have two options. One; to be eligible, you must show that you’ve invested £200,000 into your business. Or two; show that you have access to £50,000 in investment funds. This money has to be held in a licensed financial institution in the UK and must be free to spend in the country.

You must also be above the legal age limit, which is 16 years old. You also have to show that you can support yourself comfortably and that you meet the requirement for the English language i.e. show a higher level at CEFR or have an academic qualification that’s taught in English, one that is recognised by the UK NARIC.

Thinking about Applying?

If you think you qualify for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa, let us know!

Hire Wembley Solicitors and start working on your application for a work visa with the leading immigration lawyers in Wembley. Contact us at 020 3417 3700 to book an appointment.