The Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa used to be a popular route for individuals seeking to invest and settle in the UK, however, this route closed to new applicants in March 2019. Existing visa holders were able to extend their stay if that applied by March 2023. This blog will address the genuine entrepreneur requirement and the next imminent deadline for holders of this visa.
Even though this route closed to new applicants in March 2019, transitional provisions are still in place for those that hold the visa and who wish to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. However, this route, and ability to apply for settlement, will soon close completely.
ILR and extension
For those who hold a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa and have not previously held leave as a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur), the deadline to apply for ILR under the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa route is 5 April 2025. If you miss this deadline, you will not be able to apply for ILR under this route. There are certain requirements that you must meet, such as the continuous 5-year residence requirement, to be able to apply for ILR.
If you transitioned from the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa to the Tier 1(Entrepreneur) visa, the deadline to apply for an extension of your leave is 5 July 2025, and you have until 5 July 2027 to apply for ILR.
The genuine entrepreneur requirement
It is not enough to register a business and invest the required amount of capital, you also need to evidence that you have been genuinely operating an active and viable business during the period you have held leave as a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur).
For the Home Office to be satisfied that you are operating an active and viable business, they will typically look at whether you:
- Invested in a business as required.
- Engaged in genuine business activity.
- Have an intention to continue operating the business.
- Can provide evidence of business activity.
The above is not an exhaustive list of the requirements, and If you are unsure whether you qualify, please reach out to us urgently for tailored advice.
Updated: 03 April 2025
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
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