The Entrepreneur Visa, wherein a prospective entrepreneur was granted UK access to set up a new business in the UK, or to invest in an already existing UK business, is now no longer accepting new applications.
Business people seeking long-term access to the UK, or a roadmap towards indefinite leave to remain must now find another path.
There are many visas available that will help business people gain access to the UK, the best option for each individual will depend on their circumstances and their reasoning as to why they require UK residence.
Available routes
Some of the numerous available routes that may be applicable to business people who are seeking UK residence are as follows;
Business Visas
There are still business based routes available following the end of the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa path into the UK, those seeking UK residence may still apply for prospective entrepreneurs. There are still options such as the Start-Up Visa and the Innovator Visa for those seeking UK residence in order to set up a UK business. There are also Investor Visas available for those who are seeking to invest money into the UK economy through UK based businesses.
Instead of setting up a business – business people could take a role as skilled workers, those seeking UK residence could opt for one of the available Skilled Worker Visas. This will allow them residence in the UK for a limited period of time and a roadmap towards permanent Indefinite Leave to Remain. The application will depend on the UK based role that they intend to apply for. For those at the forefront of their field, the Global Talent Visa may offer an alternative route. Again, the application will depend on your field of work.
Family Visas
If business people seeking residence in the UK already have family or a spouse that has permanent UK residence, they may gain access through one of the Family Visas available. There are options for those with spouses, civil partners, fiancés, and unmarried partners who have UK residence. There are also options available for those who are the parents and children of UK permanent residents.
Student Visas
Business people may be granted limited UK residence if they plan to come here in order to study. There are a number of Student Visa options that may be relevant to those seeking access to the UK who would have used the entrepreneur path.
To ensure that the right application is pursued and all the right documents are presented, it is highly advisable to work with a skilled legal team like QC Immigration. Working alongside a legal team can strengthen your case and increase the chances of your visa application being accepted. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with the team if you’d like to discuss your options.
Entrepreneur Visa extensions
Those currently residing in the UK with a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa may be granted an extension until April 6th of 2023 – it is key that they seek legal assistance in order to put forward a thorough application that includes all of the relevant documentation necessary to present a clear case that the Home Office would be more likely to accept.
In order to be granted an extension, applicants must meet all of the stipulations set out in their initial visa agreement, including job creation, registration and investment into the UK economy, you must also pass the genuine entrepreneur test that determines whether or not your business is desirable and can be successful in the UK.
These extensions will cost the residing entrepreneur £1,292 with an additional cost of £19.20 for fingerprinting and photos which is part of the application process.
Indefinite Leave To Remain
Those residing on a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK can still achieve a settled status through their extended visa – they must apply for settlement before the 5th of April 2025 and meet all of the necessary requirements, including scoring 75 points on the Home Office’s settlement application points table. In order to assist you in meeting these requirements, it is extremely advisable to bring a legal professional on board. Indefinite Leave to Remain is essential if you are working towards British Citizenship.
How can QC Immigration help?
Our experienced team of legal professionals will be able to assist you through every step of the application process. We will put together as strong a case as possible and will make sure that you have submitted all of the relevant and required documentation.
We always aim to make the process as stress-free as possible for you and help you navigate the complexities of UK immigration law. If you’d like to discuss your situation don’t hesitate to email us or book a consultation with one of our lawyers.
FAQs
How long does my extension request take?
This can depend, especially throughout the Covid 19 pandemic. Typically an extension and application for Indefinite Leave to Remain each take approximately 8 weeks, but these times may be much longer with the current situation.
Can my dependants also apply for an extension?
Yes. Dependants can apply for an extension alongside your Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa extension request. This also includes those who were children at the time of your initial application but have since turned 18.
My extension or alternative visa application was rejected, what next?
If your extension application or your alternative route has been rejected – it is key that you act quickly. The home office may be willing to reconsider your application through the administrative review process, and if a strong case is submitted in a timely manner your application may be granted.
