United Kingdom Golden Visa & Residence Permit

At a glance

Tier 1 status

Closed (February 17, 2022)

Innovator Founder Visa

Approved innovative business; settlement in 3 years

Global Talent Visa

For leaders in their field

Expansion Worker Visa

Business expansion (temporary)

Policy

Based on business and expertise rather than wealth

Benefits

• Living and working in one of the world's leading economies.
• Settlement through an innovative business or talent (in 3 years).
• An English-speaking country.
• Family members can be included.

Requirements

• Endorsed innovative business idea for the Innovator Founder route.
• Recognition in their field for the Global Talent route.
• Clean criminal record and English language proficiency.

Costs

Tier 1 Investor Visa

No longer available (closed in 2022)

Innovator Founder Visa

Depends on business plan (fixed minimum investment requirement removed)

Global Talent Visa

Application and endorsement fees

Process

1. 01

   Eligibility assessment

   Determining the visa route best suited to your profile.

2. 02

   Endorsement

   Preparing the required business endorsement or talent application.

3. 03

   Visa application

   Applying under the relevant visa category.

4. 04

   Settlement

   Residence and settlement upon meeting requirements.

FAQ

Is the UK investor visa still open?

No. The Tier 1 Investor Visa was closed to new applications on February 17, 2022.

Is there still a way to get UK residence through investment?

There is no direct investment residency; however, the Innovator Founder, Global Talent, or Expansion Worker visas may be considered.

Can I get residence just by investing a certain amount?

No. Policy has moved away from wealth-based residence toward routes based on business, innovation, or expertise.

Is there a fixed investment amount for the Innovator Founder visa?

No. The former GBP 50,000 minimum funding requirement was removed; an innovative and viable business idea endorsed by an approved body is now the basis.

How long does it take to get settlement (ILR)?

Under the Innovator Founder and Global Talent routes, indefinite leave to remain (ILR) can generally be possible in 3 years once requirements are met.

What happens to existing Tier 1 holders?

Those who obtained visas before the program closed can continue to use their extension and settlement rights under the old rules.