Ways to Invest in
United Kingdom
United Kingdom Investment Visa
The United Kingdom does not currently have a direct “investment visa” that grants residence simply by investing money. The former Tier 1 (Investor) Visa, often called the “Golden Visa,” was closed in February 2022 due to concerns over illicit finance and national security. If your goal is to obtain UK residency through business or investment, there are several legal pathways.
Innovator Founder Visa (Main Entrepreneur Route)
This is the closest replacement to the former investor visa.
Who is it for?
Entrepreneurs who want to establish an innovative business in the UK.
Main Requirements:
- A genuinely innovative business idea
- The business must be:
- Innovative
- Viable
- Scalable
- Approval (endorsement) from a Home Office-approved endorsing body
- English language at B2 level
- At least £1,270 in personal maintenance funds (unless exempt)
- Active day-to-day involvement in running the business
Unlike the old Innovator Visa, there is no fixed minimum investment amount, but you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funding for your business if required by the endorsing body.
Step-By-Step:
- Develop an innovative business plan.
- Obtain endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
- Gather financial and English-language evidence.
- Apply online for the Innovator Founder Visa.
- Attend biometrics if required.
- Receive a 3-year visa.
- Operate and grow the business.
- After 3 years, if you meet the business success criteria, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Investing in UK Companies
You may invest in:
- Startups
- Venture Capital
- Private Companies
- Listed Companies
- Investment Funds
Global Talent Visa
If you are an internationally recognized entrepreneur, scientist, researcher, or technology leader, this route may be available.
Investment is not required.
Suitable for founders with a strong track record.
Self-Sponsorship (via Skilled Worker)
Although there is no official “self-sponsorship visa,” some entrepreneurs:
- establish a UK company,
- obtain a sponsor licence for that company, and
- are sponsored into the UK as employees of the business.
This route is subject to sponsorship rules and Home Office scrutiny.
Expansion Worker Route
For owners of established overseas businesses expanding into the UK.
Suitable if you already operate a successful company outside the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa
If you invest by purchasing or joining a UK company and are employed by an approved sponsor, you may qualify through employment rather than investment.
Typical Innovator Founder process:
- Develop an innovative business idea.
- Obtain endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
- Apply for the visa.
- Move to the UK and run the business.
- Apply for ILR after 3 years if eligible.
- Later, apply for British citizenship if you meet the residence and other requirements.
Important points:
- Buying UK property does not provide residency.
- Investing in UK companies or purchasing a business does not automatically qualify you for a visa.
Future Investor Visa?
There have been reports that the UK government is considering a new, tightly controlled invitation-only route for ultra-high-net-worth investors, potentially involving investments of around £5 million in strategic sectors. However, no such visa is currently available, and no official application process exists.