For Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa holders, the path to settlement in the UK is possible. Until 5 April 2025, eligible applicants can secure Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Tier 1 Entrepreneur category. With a successful application, you can gain Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR, eliminating any immigration time restrictions.

Essential Criteria for Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa ILR
To be granted ILR as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur, UK Visas & Immigration requires applicants to:

1. Register as a business director or as self-employed within 6 months of obtaining the Tier 1 Entrepreneur status.
2. Continue the above registration up to 3 months before the application date.
3. Invest a minimum of £200,000 or £50,000 (based on individual circumstances) in one or multiple UK businesses.
4. Create and sustain at least two full-time positions for UK settled residents for a minimum of 12 months.
5. Authentically establish, assume, or direct a legitimate UK enterprise and genuinely manage and continue its operations.
6. Stay legally in the UK for an uninterrupted 5-year period as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur, without more than 180 days of absence annually.
7. Demonstrate adequate proficiency in the English language and possess knowledge about life in the UK.

For those who generate a minimum of 10 new full-time roles or attain a business turnover of £5 million or more, a faster 3-year settlement route is available.

However, individual cases may have varying requirements. For comprehensive guidance, it’s advised to consult a seasoned immigration solicitor.

To discuss further or start your ILR application as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur, reach out to our skilled solicitors at Highwood Solicitors on +44 (0) 1206523714 or complete the enquiry form.

Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR and Job Creation
Should you begin a new business or invest in an ongoing one, you’re expected to generate the equivalent of two new full-time roles lasting for at least a year for settled workers according to the Immigration Rules.

The job creation stipulations can be intricate. Thus, consulting an immigration expert early can be beneficial in meeting these requirements.

Applying for ILR as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur: When’s the Right Time?
Once you’ve lived in the UK under the Tier 1 Entrepreneur category for a continuous 5 years, you become eligible for ILR. An accelerated 3-year ILR pathway is also available under certain conditions, such as significant job creation or high business turnover.

Always aim to apply for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR 28 days prior to completing the relevant qualification period. Professional advice from an immigration solicitor can provide clarity on the best time to file your application.

Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR: Residence Specifications
To obtain ILR, ensure your absence from the UK doesn’t exceed 180 days in any 12-month phase during your qualifying tenure of 3 or 5 years.

Application Processing Time for Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
Typically, UK Visa & Immigration’s standard service processes ILR applications within 26 weeks. While there’s no priority service for Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR submissions, there are whispers of a 30-day service in the pipeline.

Making a Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR Application Outside the UK: Can It Be Done?
Regrettably, you can only submit ILR applications within the UK.

Highwood Solicitors: Guiding Your UK Entrepreneur Visa ILR Journey
The Immigration Rules have stringent documentation criteria for Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa ILR applications. Seeking advice from a competent immigration solicitor can be pivotal.

Highwood Solicitors stands out as one of the UK’s premier immigration practices for Tier 1 Entrepreneurs. Our team of adept solicitors is seasoned in guiding various entrepreneurs through the intricate Home Office regulations.

With a reputation for client-centric service, Highwood Solicitors is your trusted partner, providing transparent, dependable immigration counsel as part of our dedicated service.