610, 6th floor ithum tower, sec 62 Noida
610, 6th floor ithum tower, sec 62 Noida
Fast-Track Your Path to British Citizenship via Investment
If you're a high-net-worth individual looking to live, invest, and eventually settle in the United Kingdom, the UK Investor Visa once offered an exceptional pathway. Though the Tier 1 Investor Visa route officially closed on 17 February 2022, those who acquired it prior to this date still retain the right to extend their visa, bring dependents, and apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship through structured investment and residency.
Despite the closure, the UK remains one of the most sought-after destinations for global investors due to its resilient economy, global financial hubs, stable political environment, and world-class lifestyle amenities.
The UK Tier 1 Investor Visa was created for affluent individuals wishing to settle in the UK through substantial financial investment. By investing a minimum of £2 million into eligible UK businesses, individuals and their families could gain residency rights, and eventually British citizenship, without the usual immigration requirements such as English proficiency, work experience, or academic qualifications.
Though new applications are no longer accepted, existing visa holders can still follow this route to obtain ILR and eventually apply for UK citizenship.
Following reforms introduced on 29 March 2019, eligible investments were limited to UK-registered companies. Government bonds were phased out for new applicants.
| Investment Threshold | ILR Eligibility |
|---|---|
| £2 million | After 5 years |
| £5 million | After 3 years |
| £10 million | After 2 years |
Within 3 months of visa approval, investors were required to:
Note: Funds must remain invested. Even if asset values fall below the original investment amount, topping up is not required unless withdrawing funds.
| Investment Amount | ILR Eligibility |
|---|---|
| £2 million | After 5 years |
| £5 million | After 3 years |
| £10 million | After 2 years |
Family members can apply for ILR simultaneously if still financially dependent.
Citizenship Processing Time: Approximately 6 to 8 weeks
Upon approval, you’ll receive a naturalisation certificate, which allows you to apply for a British passport.
A: No, the UK Tier 1 Investor Visa program was officially closed to new applicants on 17 February 2022. However, existing visa holders can still apply for extensions, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and eventually British citizenship.
A: Yes. If you applied for the Investor Visa before it closed, you can still apply for a visa extension, provided you meet the investment and residency requirements.
A: The minimum qualifying investment was £2 million, which must be invested in UK-registered businesses (not in government bonds or property).
A: Yes. Spouses, unmarried partners, and dependent children under 18 can be included in the application and are eligible for visa extensions and ILR with the main applicant.
A: Not for the visa itself. However, when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, you and all adult dependents must pass an approved English test at CEFR Level B1 or higher.
A: It depends on the amount invested:
£10 million – after 2 years
£5 million – after 3 years
£2 million – after 5 years
A: No. The investment must be maintained throughout the visa duration. Withdrawing funds before qualifying for ILR can result in visa refusal or cancellation.
A: Investors must allocate funds into active, UK-registered companies. Investments in property, offshore companies, or personal businesses are not permitted.
A: Yes. You and your dependents can study, start a business, or take employment in the UK. However, you cannot work as a professional athlete, doctor, or dentist without proper qualifications or licensing.
A: The initial visa is granted for 3 years and 4 months (if applying from outside the UK) and can be extended for 2 more years. After this, you may qualify for ILR.
A: You can apply for naturalisation one year after receiving ILR, provided you meet residency, English proficiency, and “Life in the UK” test requirements.
A: Standard processing takes around 8 weeks. Expedited service is available, with decisions typically issued within 5 working days.
A: Yes. You must not spend more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period to remain eligible for ILR or British citizenship.
A: Yes, but you must provide proof of relationship (marriage certificate or cohabitation documents) and a declaration of consent from your partner granting access to the funds.
A: As long as you do not withdraw any funds, a drop in investment value does not affect your visa extension or ILR eligibility.
