The Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa was a UK immigration route designed for individuals looking to establish or take over a business in the UK. Applicants were required to invest either £50,000 or £200,000, depending on the circumstances, and play an active role in managing the business.
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Although the route has been closed to new applicants since 2019, existing visa holders may still be eligible to apply for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they continue to meet the relevant requirements.
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For those considering alternative routes, the Innovator Founder visa has effectively replaced this category. This route requires endorsement from an approved body and is based on a business idea that is innovative, viable and scalable.
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Applicants seeking to extend their Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa must evidence genuine business activity, proper investment of funds, and the creation of at least two qualifying jobs for settled workers. Failure to meet these requirements may result in refusal and loss of lawful immigration status.
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Those applying for ILR must also ensure they meet the continuous residence requirement, alongside the investment and job creation criteria.
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Given the strict requirements and scrutiny applied by the Home Office, professional advice is often advisable when applying for an extension or considering a switch into a different visa category.
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Key Deadlines
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Extension applications
Deadline: 5 April 2023
Applicants were required to show that they had registered as a director or self-employed within six months of their initial grant, invested the required funds into UK business activity, and created at least two full-time roles for settled workers, each lasting a minimum of 12 months.
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Settlement (ILR) applications
Deadline: 5 April 2025
Applicants must complete five years’ continuous residence under the Tier 1 Entrepreneur route (or three years where accelerated settlement applies), and demonstrate ongoing compliance with investment and job creation requirements.