February 18th, 2022
Tier 1 Investor visa route has been closed to new applicants irrespective of nationality due to security concerns. Home Secretary Priti Patel made the announcement via Twitter on 17 February 2022 taking the unusual step of implementing the change with immediate effect.
People who already have leave to enter or remain as a Tier 1 Investor will be able to extend their stay, if they apply by 17 February 2026, and apply for settlement, provided they do so by 17 February 2028.
The findings of the UK Home Office review into the Tier 1 Investor visas issued between 2008 and 2015 have not been published yet. We are expecting the rationale behind the decision.
There are suggestions for improvements to the Innovator route which would work more effectively in support of the UK’s economy. The changes to the route are not expected until Autumn 2022, so we continue to exercise caution when advising our clients on alternative routes in order to ensure their relocation plans will be realised efficiently.
If you are impacted by today’s news and need advice on your current Tier 1 status or alternative options, please feel free to reach out to our immigration team.
