Investor Visa route closed with immediate effect

Following reports from several media outlets last night, the Home Secretary, Priti Patel, has today announced that the UK’s Investor visa will close to all new applicants with immediate effect.

Any Investor application for entry clearance or leave to remain made before 16:00 on 17 February 2022 will still be considered. Individuals on an Investor visa and already in the UK with valid leave have the following options:

Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK – must be made by 17 February 2028.
Extend leave to remain as an Investor for 2 years – must be made by 17 February 2026.
Apply for any dependant family members to join them in the UK.

It is widely expected there will be significant changes to existing visa categories and the introduction of new categories announced in Spring this year. It remains to be seen what changes the Home Office are likely to implement to cater for High-Net Worth and Ultra High-Net Worth clients wishing to settle permanently in the UK.

The imminent closure of the Investor route will certainly be a significant setback for individuals with funds who are looking to invest in the UK. The route offered great flexibility for individuals and their family members wishing to relocate permanently to the UK and it’s difficult to see how this category will be replaced, if at all.

If you have been affected by the closure of the Investor route and wish to discuss your circumstances with our Immigration team, please contact Sundeep Rathod.

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