As the UK government has officially closed the Tier 1 (Investor) visa route to new applicants, individuals with existing leave under this category must be aware of the important deadlines for visa extensions and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications. Below is a summary of the key deadlines and what you need to know if you hold a Tier 1 Investor Visa.
1. Tier 1 (Investor) Visa Extension Deadline: 17 February 2026
If you currently hold a valid Tier 1 (Investor) visa, you can apply to extend your stay in this category until 17 February 2026. This deadline applies to individuals who have already been granted entry clearance or leave to remain as a Tier 1 Investor.
Key Points to Remember:
- After 17 February 2026, it will no longer be possible to apply for an extension of your Tier 1 (Investor) visa.
- You may submit your extension application from outside the UK, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Extensions must be in accordance with the existing Home Office requirements for the Tier 1 (Investor) category, which include maintaining a qualifying investment of at least £2 million.
2. Tier 1 (Investor) Visa Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Deadline: 17 February 2028
If you already hold further leave to remain under the Tier 1 (Investor) category, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) until 17 February 2028. This deadline marks the final opportunity for existing Tier 1 (Investor) visa holders to obtain permanent settlement under this visa route.
Key Points to Remember:
- After 17 February 2028, it will not be possible to apply for ILR under the Tier 1 (Investor) category.
- ILR applications must be made from within the UK. It is essential to ensure that you are present in the UK at the time of application.
- Be mindful of the residency requirement, which limits time spent outside the UK to no more than 180 days in any 12-month period during your qualifying residency period.
Recommendation:
Carefully plan your residency timeline, ensuring that you meet the Home Office’s requirements for ILR. Working with our immigration specialist will help avoid delays or rejections as the deadline approaches.
Conclusion
The Tier 1 (Investor) visa closure presents clear deadlines for those looking to extend their stay or apply for ILR. Ensuring your applications are timely and compliant is crucial. Missing these deadlines could affect your ability to remain in the UK under this visa route, so mark these dates in your calendar and seek professional advice to avoid any issues.
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.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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