The Tier 1 Entrepreneur route has been closed for new applications since 29 March 2019. In order to set up or run a business in the UK, it is now possible to apply for a Start-up visa or an Innovator visa that effectively replaced the entrepreneur route. Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa extensions can be applied until 5 April 2023 and applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain can be made until 5 April 2025.
Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa extension requirements
In order to be eligible for Tier 1 Entrepreneur extensions, the applicants must meet the below requirements.
- Registered as a company director or as self-employed with HMRC within 6 months of obtaining the initial Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa
- Continue to be either the director or registered as self employed with HMRC within the 3 months immediately prior to the extension application
- Established, taken over or become a director of a genuinely operating business and intend to continue running the business
- Invested either £50,000 or £200,000 (based on the initial application) in a business or businesses in the UK
- Created at-least two full time jobs for those settled in the UK and existed for at least 12 months
- Competent in the English language to at least CEFR Level B1
- Maintain sufficient funds to support self and family without relying on public funds and satisfying the maintenance requirements
When applying for an extension, current Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa holders may be interviewed as part of the application process. The Home Office usually conducts a real entrepreneur interview to confirm that the applicant has legitimately invested money in a UK-based business and knows their role in the company. On a few occasions, we’ve seen the Home Office compliance staff pay a visit to the applicant’s place of business. If the application is approved, the entrepreneurs will be able to stay in the UK for another two years before applying for permanent residency.