Investor (closed)ROUTE

Tier 1 (Investor) visa

For high-net-worth individuals investing in the UK; closed to new applicants since February 2022.

Closed to new applicantsClosed to new applicantsPoints-based

The Tier 1 (Investor) visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. This guide explains who it was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open UK route that fits you.

Who the Tier 1 (Investor) visa is for

For high-net-worth individuals investing in the UK; closed to new applicants since February 2022.

Previously led to settlement; closed to new applicants in February 2022.

Tier 1 (Investor) visa - eligibility criteria

  • Route closed to new applicants from 17 February 2022
  • Previously required at least £2 million to invest
  • Investment had to be in qualifying UK assets
  • Existing holders may still extend or settle under transitional rules
  • No new applications accepted

Tier 1 (Investor) visa cost & processing time (2025)

The indicative government fee for the Tier 1 (Investor) visa (United Kingdom) is Closed (was ~£1,623 plus £2m+ investment), with an indicative processing time of Not applicable (route closed). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.

TypePoints-based
Where you applyClosed to new applicants
Length of stayWas 3 years 4 months, extendable
Work rightsWork was permitted, including self-employment
Study rightsStudy was permitted
Government feeClosed (was ~£1,623 plus £2m+ investment)
Processing timeNot applicable (route closed)
Route to PRPreviously led to settlement; closed to new applicants in February 2022.

Pathway & next steps

Previously led to settlement; closed to new applicants in February 2022.

Many applicants also compare Innovator Founder · Innovator Founder visa, Global Talent · Global Talent visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.

Common Tier 1 (Investor) visa pitfalls we fix

Route is closed; new investors cannot apply
Existing holders should track extension and settlement deadlines
Investment-based settlement timelines depend on amount invested

Tier 1 (Investor) visa - frequently asked questions

Is the Tier 1 (Investor) visa still open?

No - the Tier 1 (Investor) visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. Previously led to settlement; closed to new applicants in February 2022.

Who can apply for the Tier 1 (Investor) visa?

For high-net-worth individuals investing in the UK; closed to new applicants since February 2022.

Sources & official references

This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:

  • GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority
Figures are indicative for 2025 and government fees and rules change. Confirm current details at GOV.UK before applying. General information only - not immigration advice.