Tier 1 Visas – Updated UK Immigration Routes

Key Takeaways

• The UK Government has closed all Tier 1 visa categories to new applicants.
• Existing Tier 1 holders (Investor, Entrepreneur, Exceptional Talent, Graduate Entrepreneur) may still apply to extend or settle if eligible.
• Replacement routes include Innovator Founder, Global Talent, and Skilled Worker visas.
• Barar & Associates continue to assist clients who entered under Tier 1 and need extension, ILR, or switch advice.

The End of Tier 1 Visas

Between 2019 and 2023, the Home Office formally phased out all Tier 1 visa categories under the Points-Based System.

GOV.UK announcements confirm that Tier 1 (Investor) and Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) migrants may still apply for extensions or ILR if they held leave before closure dates.

If You Currently Hold a Tier 1 Visa

You may still apply to:

1. Extend your Tier 1 (Investor) or Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) leave — provided you meet the relevant investment or business criteria and deadline set out in Appendix Tier 1.
2. Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the same route, within the Home Office’s specified transition periods.
3. Switch to a new route such as Innovator Founder or Global Talent if your circumstances have changed.

Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) and Investor ILR applications remain open until the final cut-off dates listed on GOV.UK (typically 2027–2028 depending on your initial grant and extensions).

Current Alternative Routes to the UK

1. Innovator Founder Visa

Replaced the Tier 1 Entrepreneur and Start-up visas. Applicants must demonstrate an innovative, viable and scalable business idea endorsed by an approved body.

• No minimum investment amount required.
• You may work for your own business and apply for ILR after 3 years.
• Business must show growth and job creation potential.

2. Global Talent Visa

Replaced Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent). For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology.

• Endorsement by approved body (such as UK Research and Innovation or Tech Nation successor organisation).
• No job offer or minimum salary needed.
• Settlement possible after 3 years (5 for some sub-categories).

3. Skilled Worker Visa

Successor to Tier 2 (General) and main route for sponsored employment in the UK.

• Requires licensed employer and valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Minimum salary threshold £38,700 (from Apr 2025, with route-specific exceptions).
• ILR after 5 years of continuous employment.

How Barar & Associates Assist Former Tier 1 Migrants

• Tier 1 Extension & ILR applications – investment tracking, business activity verification, absences audit.
• Transition planning – review eligibility for Innovator Founder or Global Talent routes.
• Sponsor licence and Skilled Worker migration for your UK business.
• Document and residence compliance checks to avoid refusal under transitional rules.
• Complex case representation – appeals, judicial review, and Home Office correspondence.

Many Tier 1 holders are approaching final ILR deadlines. Book a consultation early to secure your status before route closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still apply for a Tier 1 visa?
No. All Tier 1 categories are closed to new applications. You may qualify for Innovator Founder or Global Talent instead.

Can I extend my Tier 1 (Investor) visa?
Yes if you held Tier 1 (Investor) leave before closure and still meet the investment requirements. See Appendix Tier 1 (Investor) Extension Rules.

When can I apply for settlement under Tier 1?
Most routes permit ILR after 5 years of qualifying residence (3 for accelerated Investor path).

Which visa replaced Tier 1 Entrepreneur?
The Innovator Founder visa, which requires endorsement and a genuine business proposal.

Can I switch from Tier 1 to Global Talent or Skilled Worker?
Yes — provided you meet each route’s eligibility requirements and apply before your current leave expires.

Official Sources

• GOV.UK – Tier 1 (Investor) Visa Closure Notice
• GOV.UK – Innovator Founder Visa Rules (Appendix Innovator Founder)
• GOV.UK – Global Talent Visa (Appendix Global Talent)
• GOV.UK – Skilled Worker Visa (Appendix Skilled Worker)
• UK Visa & Immigration Fees – April 2025 Schedule

Why Choose Barar & Associates

• Over 25 years’ experience in UK business immigration law.
• SRA-regulated firm (ID 423181).
• Ongoing support for clients transitioning from Tier 1 routes to modern visa categories.
• Transparent fees and comprehensive representation throughout application or appeal.

Contact us on 020 7487 8370 or info@bararassociates.com to discuss your Tier 1 extension or transition options with a qualified UK immigration solicitor.