UK Tier 1 Visa Guide: Closed Routes Explained

The Tier 1 visa was a key category under the UK’s former Points-Based Immigration System (PBS), designed to attract high-value individuals, including investors, entrepreneurs, graduate entrepreneurs, and individuals recognised for exceptional talent or promise. The route was structured to support the UK economy through significant financial investment, business innovation, and the contribution of globally recognised leaders in key sectors such as science, digital technology, and the arts.

Although the Tier 1 visa categories are now closed to new applicants, understanding the structure, legacy, and transitional provisions of these routes remains important. Many existing visa holders are still navigating extension and settlement pathways, with strict eligibility criteria and deadlines applying under transitional arrangements. For immigration practitioners, businesses, and individuals exploring alternative visa options, it is essential to understand how the Tier 1 visa system functioned, why it was closed, and how its replacement routes have reshaped the UK’s immigration landscape.

This guide is intended for:

• Existing Tier 1 visa holders seeking clarity on their remaining extension and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) options;
• Individuals and businesses analysing the historical context and policy rationale behind the closure of Tier 1 routes;
• Professionals and applicants interested in understanding how the UK’s business and talent immigration strategies have evolved post-Tier 1.

 

Section A: Overview of Tier 1 Visa Categories

 

The UK’s Tier 1 visa route was structured to attract individuals who could contribute significantly to the UK economy through investment, business innovation, or exceptional talent. The route consisted of several sub-categories, each tailored to a specific profile of applicant. These included high-net-worth investors, entrepreneurs launching new businesses, recent graduates with promising business ideas, and individuals recognised globally for their skills in fields such as science, arts, and technology. Although now closed to new applicants, these categories played a critical role in the UK’s economic migration strategy.

 

1. Tier 1 (Investor) Visa

 

The Investor visa was designed for high-net-worth individuals willing to invest substantial capital into the UK economy. Applicants were required to invest a minimum of £2 million in qualifying UK investments, such as share capital or loan capital in active and trading UK-registered companies. The route provided a fast-track to settlement, with accelerated ILR options available depending on the level of investment (£5 million for ILR after 3 years, £10 million for ILR after 2 years).

Due to growing concerns over the robustness of source of funds checks, financial crime risks, and national security considerations, the Tier 1 Investor route was closed to new applicants on 17 February 2022. However, transitional arrangements allow existing Tier 1 Investor visa holders to continue applying for extensions and ILR until 17 February 2026, provided they maintain their qualifying investments and comply with the continuous residence requirement.

 

2. Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa

 

The Entrepreneur visa targeted individuals seeking to establish, join, or take over one or more businesses in the UK. Applicants needed to demonstrate access to at least £200,000 in investment funds (reduced to £50,000 in certain qualifying scenarios), meet English language requirements, and present a credible business plan endorsed by relevant supporting documents.

Successful applicants were granted leave to remain, with the opportunity to extend their visa and eventually apply for ILR based on business activity, job creation (minimum two full-time roles for settled workers), and compliance with route-specific criteria. The Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa was closed to new applicants on 29 March 2019. Transitional arrangements allow existing holders to apply for extensions and ILR until 5 April 2025, after which the route will be fully phased out unless extended by future policy changes.

It is important to note that Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa holders who are unable to meet the extension criteria may consider switching to other business-related routes, such as the Innovator Founder visa. However, switching would reset the qualifying period for ILR, as time spent under Tier 1 Entrepreneur would not count towards settlement under a new category.

 

3. Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa

 

Aimed at recent graduates with promising business ideas, the Graduate Entrepreneur visa allowed individuals endorsed by UK higher education institutions or the Department for International Trade (DIT) to stay in the UK and develop their business ventures. Unlike the Entrepreneur visa, this route did not require upfront investment funds but relied heavily on the strength and scalability of the applicant’s business proposal, as assessed by the endorsing institution.

The Graduate Entrepreneur route was phased out in July 2019 and integrated into the Start-up visa category. Existing Graduate Entrepreneur visa holders were permitted to switch to the Start-up visa before their leave expired. However, the Start-up route itself was closed to new applicants in July 2023. Those who successfully transitioned from Graduate Entrepreneur to Start-up may now pursue the Innovator Founder visa for long-term business progression and settlement.

 

4. Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa

 

The Exceptional Talent visa catered to individuals recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in fields such as science, humanities, engineering, arts, and digital technology. Applicants were required to obtain endorsement from a designated competent body, such as Tech Nation (until its endorsement function ceased), Arts Council England, or the Royal Society, among others. The route assessed applicants on their proven track record or potential to contribute significantly to their field in the UK.

Unlike the Entrepreneur and Investor routes, the Exceptional Talent visa focused on individual merit and global recognition rather than financial investment. In February 2020, this category was rebranded as the Global Talent visa, with expanded endorsement criteria and simplified processes to enhance flexibility and accessibility. Existing Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa holders retain the conditions of their original leave but follow ILR criteria aligned with the Global Talent framework, with eligibility for settlement after 3 or 5 years, depending on endorsement level.

 

Summary: The Tier 1 visa route was once a flagship pathway for investors, entrepreneurs, and global talent to establish themselves in the UK. Each category served a targeted purpose, from encouraging substantial financial investment to fostering innovative business ventures and recognising exceptional professional achievements. However, with changing policy priorities, increasing compliance concerns, and a desire to refine the UK’s immigration offer, these categories were gradually closed and replaced by more focused and robust visa routes. Understanding the design and intent of the Tier 1 categories provides valuable context for the current immigration framework and guidance for existing holders navigating transitional provisions.

 

 

Section B: Closure of Tier 1 Visa Categories

 

The closure of the Tier 1 visa categories marked a significant turning point in the UK’s approach to business and talent migration. Over time, the UK Government raised concerns over the effectiveness, security risks, and perceived misuse of certain Tier 1 routes, particularly the Investor and Entrepreneur visas. In response, policy reforms were introduced to tighten eligibility requirements and enhance scrutiny of applicants. However, these incremental changes were ultimately deemed insufficient to address systemic issues, leading to a phased closure of the Tier 1 visa categories.

Understanding the reasons behind these closures, the timeline of when each category ended, and the transitional arrangements put in place is crucial for existing Tier 1 visa holders and for those analysing the evolution of UK immigration policy.

 

1. Reasons for Closure of Tier 1 Visa Categories

 

The decision to close the Tier 1 visa routes stemmed from several interrelated factors:

• Security and Compliance Concerns: The Investor visa route, in particular, came under intense scrutiny over inadequate checks on the source of applicants’ funds. Investigations revealed that the route had been used by individuals with connections to financial crime, corruption, and illicit capital flows. The Government acknowledged that the route’s structure was insufficiently robust to mitigate national security risks.
• Ineffective Economic Impact: The Entrepreneur visa was criticised for its relatively low success rate in delivering genuine business activity. Many applicants established businesses that were deemed unsustainable or lacked substantive economic contribution. Reviews concluded that the route was not delivering the intended outcomes in terms of innovation and job creation.
• Strategic Policy Realignment: The UK’s post-Brexit immigration strategy aimed to create a more controlled, skills-focused migration system. The Government sought to replace broad, loosely defined visa categories with more targeted routes that emphasised innovation, business viability, and individual talent, underpinned by rigorous endorsement mechanisms.
• Public Perception and Political Pressure: The Tier 1 Investor route, often referred to in media as the “Golden Visa,” faced significant public criticism for enabling wealthy individuals to secure UK residency without sufficient economic benefit or transparency. The perception of the route being susceptible to abuse further accelerated calls for its reform or abolition.

 

2. Key Closure Dates and Transitional Provisions

 

The closure of the Tier 1 visa categories was implemented through a staggered process, allowing the Home Office to manage the transition and provide certainty to existing visa holders. The key closure dates and transitional arrangements are as follows:

• Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa: Closed to new applications on 29 March 2019. Existing Entrepreneur visa holders are permitted to apply for extensions and ILR until 5 April 2025. To qualify for extension or ILR, applicants must meet the route’s original requirements, including demonstrating genuine business activity, job creation, and investment in their UK business.
• Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa: Phased out in July 2019. Existing holders were allowed to switch to the Start-up visa, which itself closed to new applicants in July 2023. Graduate Entrepreneurs who transitioned successfully can now progress to the Innovator Founder route, provided they meet endorsement criteria.
• Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa: Rebranded as the Global Talent visa on 20 February 2020. Existing Exceptional Talent visa holders retained the conditions of their grant but follow ILR criteria aligned with the Global Talent framework.
• Tier 1 (Investor) Visa: Closed to new applicants on 17 February 2022. Existing Investor visa holders can apply for extensions and ILR until 17 February 2026, subject to maintaining qualifying investments and fulfilling continuous residence requirements.

The Home Office has confirmed that transitional provisions will remain in place for existing Tier 1 visa holders until the respective deadlines. However, applicants must comply fully with the conditions of their visa category and submit applications within the allowed timeframes. No new Tier 1 applications are being accepted.

 

Summary: The closure of the Tier 1 visa categories reflects a decisive shift in UK immigration policy towards more controlled and targeted business and talent migration routes. Compliance risks, national security concerns, and a desire for greater economic impact led to the phasing out of these broad visa categories. While transitional arrangements ensure that existing Tier 1 visa holders can continue towards extension and settlement, strict eligibility criteria and application deadlines apply. For individuals and businesses, understanding the rationale behind these closures and the transitional provisions is essential for effective immigration planning.

 

 

Section C: Current Options for Tier 1 Visa Holders

 

Although the Tier 1 visa categories have been closed to new applicants, existing visa holders still have pathways available to extend their stay or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they meet the relevant eligibility criteria. Additionally, individuals may consider switching to alternative visa routes that align with their current business activities or personal circumstances. Understanding these remaining options is crucial for Tier 1 visa holders planning their long-term residency or business ventures in the UK.

 

1. Extension and Settlement (ILR) Routes for Tier 1 Visa Holders

 

Existing Tier 1 visa holders can continue to apply for extensions and ILR under transitional provisions, subject to route-specific conditions and time-limited application windows:

• Tier 1 (Investor): Visa holders must maintain their qualifying investment (£2 million or more) in active and trading UK-registered companies throughout the relevant qualifying period. Continuous lawful residence is also required. Extensions and ILR applications are available until 17 February 2026. Accelerated ILR options (after 2 or 3 years) remain available for those who invested £5 million or £10 million, provided all other requirements are met.
• Tier 1 (Entrepreneur): Existing Entrepreneur visa holders may apply for extensions or ILR until 5 April 2025. Applicants must provide evidence of having invested the required funds into their UK business, created at least two full-time jobs for settled workers, and demonstrated genuine business activity. Those who meet these criteria can progress to ILR after five years, or three years under the accelerated route where applicable.
• Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur): This category has been phased out. Existing Graduate Entrepreneurs were allowed to switch to the Start-up visa before its closure in July 2023. Those who transitioned successfully can now pursue ILR through the Innovator Founder visa, provided they meet endorsement criteria and business performance benchmarks.
• Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent): Visa holders can continue towards ILR after three or five years, depending on their endorsement level. Applicants must demonstrate continuous lawful residence and continued activity in their endorsed field. While this route has been rebranded as Global Talent, existing Exceptional Talent visa holders retain the original grant conditions but follow ILR pathways under Global Talent criteria.

Applicants must ensure their applications are submitted before their visa expiry date and in line with Home Office deadlines. Meeting continuous residence requirements and maintaining compliance with visa conditions is critical for successful extension and settlement applications.

 

2. Switching to Alternative UK Visa Categories

 

Some Tier 1 visa holders may prefer or need to switch to a different visa category, depending on changes to their business activities, personal circumstances, or inability to meet extension criteria under Tier 1. Key alternative routes include:

• Skilled Worker Visa: This route is suitable for individuals who have secured a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor for a qualifying role. Applicants must meet salary thresholds, role-specific eligibility requirements, and obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Switching is permitted from within the UK, provided the applicant holds valid immigration status at the time of application.
• Innovator Founder Visa: Replacing the Tier 1 Entrepreneur route, the Innovator Founder visa is designed for individuals with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas. Applicants must secure endorsement from an approved endorsing body. It is important to note that switching from Tier 1 Entrepreneur to Innovator Founder will reset the ILR qualifying period; time previously spent under Tier 1 Entrepreneur will not count towards ILR under the Innovator Founder category.
• Global Talent Visa: Individuals recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in designated fields can apply for the Global Talent visa. This route does not require a job offer or sponsorship but mandates endorsement from a competent body. Switching from Tier 1 Exceptional Talent to Global Talent can be seamless, though ILR qualifying periods will depend on endorsement level.
• Long Residence (10-Year ILR Route): Tier 1 visa holders who have accumulated 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK may be eligible to apply for ILR under the Long Residence route. This can be a strategic fallback option for those who may not meet the criteria for extension or ILR under their original Tier 1 category.

Switching to another visa category requires a careful assessment of eligibility requirements, compliance considerations, and the potential impact on ILR timelines. Applicants should ensure they understand the implications of switching routes, particularly where ILR qualifying periods may reset.

 

Summary: While the Tier 1 visa routes are closed to new applicants, existing visa holders retain viable pathways to extend their stay and achieve settlement in the UK. Extensions and ILR applications remain open for qualifying Investor, Entrepreneur, and Exceptional Talent visa holders, subject to strict eligibility criteria and application deadlines. Additionally, alternative visa categories such as Skilled Worker, Innovator Founder, and Global Talent provide opportunities for those whose business activities or personal circumstances have evolved. Tier 1 visa holders who are unable to meet extension requirements should consider switching to alternative routes where eligible, or assess eligibility for ILR under the Long Residence (10-year route).

 

 

Section D: Modern Alternatives to Tier 1 Visas

 

Following the closure of the Tier 1 visa categories, the UK introduced a range of new immigration routes designed to better align with modern business needs, innovation priorities, and global talent recruitment. These alternatives aim to address the shortcomings of the Tier 1 system by implementing stricter eligibility criteria, endorsement requirements, and more targeted economic impact measures. For individuals previously considering a Tier 1 visa, understanding these modern alternatives is essential to navigating the current UK immigration landscape.

 

1. Innovator Founder Visa

 

Launched as a replacement for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa, the Innovator Founder visa targets individuals with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas. Applicants must secure an endorsement from an approved endorsing body that assesses the business concept against strict criteria. Unlike the former Entrepreneur route, the Innovator Founder visa places greater emphasis on business innovation and sustainability rather than purely on financial investment.

One of the key distinctions of the Innovator Founder route is that it does not stipulate a minimum investment amount. However, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to develop their business and sustain themselves in the UK. The endorsement process is rigorous, focusing on the innovation, viability, and scalability of the business idea.

Successful applicants are granted a three-year visa, with the opportunity to apply for ILR after completing the initial period, provided they meet strict business performance and job creation criteria. Applicants should be aware that switching to the Innovator Founder visa from Tier 1 Entrepreneur will reset the qualifying period for ILR, as time previously spent under Tier 1 Entrepreneur does not count towards settlement under the Innovator Founder route.

 

2. Global Talent Visa

 

The Global Talent visa succeeded the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent category, offering a flexible route for individuals recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in fields such as science, digital technology, arts, and academia. Applicants must obtain endorsement from a designated competent body, such as Arts Council England, the Royal Society, or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). In some cases, fast-track endorsement routes are available for winners of prestigious global awards.

The Global Talent visa removes the requirement for sponsorship, allowing individuals to work, switch employers, engage in self-employment, and undertake research without restriction. The route provides a pathway to ILR after three years for applicants endorsed as leaders, or after five years for those endorsed as emerging leaders. Importantly, applicants who switch from Tier 1 Exceptional Talent to Global Talent will follow the ILR criteria set under the Global Talent framework.

 

3. High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

 

The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is designed to attract recent graduates from top global universities. This route allows individuals to live and work in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD holders) without requiring a job offer or sponsorship. Eligibility is limited to graduates of institutions listed on the Home Office’s Global Universities List.

While the HPI visa does not lead directly to ILR, it offers a valuable opportunity for talented individuals to gain UK work experience and potentially switch to other long-term visa categories, such as Skilled Worker or Global Talent, depending on their future career trajectory. Applicants should note that the HPI visa is non-extendable, making forward-planning essential.

 

4. Investor Options Today

 

At present, there is no direct replacement for the Tier 1 Investor visa. High-net-worth individuals interested in securing UK residency through investment are limited to exploring business-related routes such as the Innovator Founder visa or considering alternative pathways such as the Global Talent route if they meet the endorsement criteria.

There have been ongoing discussions within policy circles regarding the potential reintroduction of an investment-based visa model with enhanced compliance checks and economic benefit conditions. However, as of August 2025, no formal proposals or replacement investor visa category has been published.

Applicants with substantial financial means who are seeking UK residency should consult with specialist advisers to explore bespoke immigration solutions and monitor potential policy developments regarding future investor pathways.

 

Summary: The closure of the Tier 1 visa routes has paved the way for a more focused and robust UK immigration framework, with alternative routes tailored to specific talent, innovation, and business objectives. The Innovator Founder visa now serves as the primary route for entrepreneurs, while the Global Talent visa continues to attract top-tier professionals across key sectors. Additionally, the High Potential Individual visa broadens access for recent graduates from elite institutions. Though a direct investor route is no longer available, high-net-worth individuals can still explore business-focused alternatives. Understanding these modern visa options, their endorsement mechanisms, and the implications on long-term residency planning is crucial for those seeking to establish a presence in the UK post-Tier 1.

 

 

Section E: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

1. Can I still apply for a UK Tier 1 visa?

 

No, all Tier 1 visa categories are now closed to new applicants. The Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) and Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visas closed in 2019, the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa was rebranded as the Global Talent visa in 2020, and the Tier 1 (Investor) visa closed in 2022. Existing Tier 1 visa holders may still apply for extensions and ILR, provided they meet the route-specific eligibility criteria and apply before the Home Office’s transitional deadlines.

 

2. What are my options if I currently hold a Tier 1 visa?

 

If you are an existing Tier 1 visa holder, you may be eligible to apply for an extension or ILR, depending on your visa category and compliance with relevant criteria. Alternatively, you may consider switching to other visa routes such as the Skilled Worker visa, Innovator Founder visa, or Global Talent visa, provided you meet the requirements. For those who have accrued 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, ILR via the Long Residence route may also be an option.

 

3. What visa replaced the Tier 1 Entrepreneur route?

 

The Innovator Founder visa replaced the Tier 1 Entrepreneur category. This route requires applicants to present an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea and obtain endorsement from an approved endorsing body. Unlike the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa, there is no set minimum investment amount; however, the business must be credible and have the potential for significant growth. Applicants switching from Tier 1 Entrepreneur to Innovator Founder should be aware that their ILR qualifying period will reset.

 

4. Can I switch from Tier 1 to a Skilled Worker visa?

 

Yes, switching from a Tier 1 visa to a Skilled Worker visa is permitted, provided you hold valid immigration status at the time of application. You will need a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor for a qualifying role, meet salary thresholds, and obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The Skilled Worker visa provides a clear pathway to ILR after five years of continuous residence.

 

5. What is the difference between the Global Talent visa and the old Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa?

 

The Global Talent visa replaced the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent category but retained its core principles of endorsing recognised leaders and emerging leaders in designated fields. The Global Talent route expanded endorsement criteria, introduced fast-track endorsements for prestigious award winners, and removed the requirement for sponsorship, offering greater flexibility. ILR is available after three years for leaders and five years for emerging leaders.

 

6. Is there still a visa for investors in the UK?

 

As of August 2025, there is no direct replacement for the Tier 1 Investor visa. High-net-worth individuals seeking UK residency through investment must explore alternative routes such as the Innovator Founder visa or await potential future policy developments regarding a restructured investor pathway. There are currently no formal proposals or announcements of a new investor visa route.

 

7. What happens if I cannot meet the extension criteria for my Tier 1 visa?

 

If you are unable to meet the extension or ILR requirements under your Tier 1 category, you may consider switching to an alternative visa route, provided you meet its eligibility criteria. For example, you may switch to the Skilled Worker, Innovator Founder, or Global Talent routes. If you have accrued 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK, you may also qualify for ILR under the Long Residence route. In some cases, voluntary departure and reapplication under a new route from overseas may be necessary if no in-country switching options apply.

 

 

Final Summary Conclusion

 

The closure of the UK’s Tier 1 visa routes reflects a significant shift towards a more targeted, compliance-driven immigration system. Existing visa holders retain pathways to extension and settlement, provided they meet strict eligibility requirements and adhere to application deadlines. New applicants must explore alternative routes such as Innovator Founder, Global Talent, or Skilled Worker visas. With ongoing policy evolution, it is vital for applicants to remain informed about current options and seek specialist advice to navigate the complexities of UK immigration law effectively.

 

Glossary of Terms

 

Term	Definition
Tier 1 Visa	A former UK visa category designed for investors, entrepreneurs, graduate entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent. Now closed to new applicants.
Investor Visa (Tier 1 Investor)	A visa route for high-net-worth individuals investing £2 million or more in the UK economy.
Entrepreneur Visa (Tier 1 Entrepreneur)	A visa route for individuals setting up, joining, or taking over a UK business, requiring a minimum £200,000 investment.
Graduate Entrepreneur Visa	A visa for graduates endorsed by UK universities or the DIT to develop innovative business ideas in the UK.
Exceptional Talent Visa	A visa for individuals recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in fields like science, arts, or technology, replaced by Global Talent.
Global Talent Visa	The successor to Tier 1 Exceptional Talent, offering a flexible route for global leaders and emerging leaders in key sectors.
Innovator Founder Visa	A business visa for individuals with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas endorsed by an approved body.
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa	A visa route for recent graduates from top global universities, allowing UK residence without sponsorship.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	Permanent residency in the UK, permitting individuals to live and work without immigration restrictions.
Endorsing Body	An organisation approved by the Home Office to assess and endorse business or talent visa applicants.
Sponsorship Licence	Authorisation granted to UK employers to sponsor foreign workers under visa routes like Skilled Worker.

 

Useful Links & Resources

 

Resource	Description	Link
UK Home Office – Tier 1 Visa Guidance	Official Home Office guidance on legacy Tier 1 visa routes, including closure updates and policy documents.	Visit Site
Innovator Founder Visa Overview	Government overview of the Innovator Founder visa, including eligibility and application process.	Visit Site
Global Talent Visa Guidance	Comprehensive guide to the Global Talent visa, including endorsement routes and application steps.	Visit Site
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa Guide	Information on eligibility and requirements for the HPI visa route.	Visit Site
UK Immigration Rules – Part 6A	Full legal text of the UK’s Points-Based Immigration System rules.	Visit Site
ILR (Settlement) Guidance	Home Office guidance on eligibility and process for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK.	Visit Site