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The Path to England Citizenship by Investment
British passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 185 countries, including the United States, European Union nations, Australia, and most of Latin America.
Β£250,000+
Investment amount (recommended min.)6β12 months
Obtaining period (residency)3β5 years
Investment returnUK Residency and Citizenship by Investment
The United Kingdom offers several routes for investors and entrepreneurs to obtain residency, with the potential to acquire British citizenship in the long term. By investing in UK businesses, setting up an innovative startup, or contributing as a skilled professional, individuals can secure a residence permit and later apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and citizenship.
Though the Tier 1 Investor Visa route was officially closed in 2022, alternative pathways remain available for those aiming to establish a long-term presence in the UK through business and innovation-based investments.
Benefits of UK Residency & Citizenship
1
Global Mobility
2
Education Opportunities
3
Business-Friendly Environment
4
High Standard of Living
5
Family Inclusion
6
Dual Citizenship Allowed
Who can get UK residency?
Investor
Applicants must be over 18, pass background checks, and make an approved investment or start a business under UK visa categories such as the Innovator Founder or Expansion Worker route.
Spouse
The main applicant's spouse is eligible for dependent residency status, allowing them to live, work, and study in the UK with a pathway to settlement.
Children
Children under 18 can be included as dependents in the residency application, gaining access to top-tier education and public services in the UK.
Main Routes to UK Residency for Investors
Innovator Founder Visa β Β£50,000+
This visa is for individuals who want to establish and run an innovative business in the UK. The business idea must be endorsed by a Home Office-approved body.
Key Highlights:
β No legal minimum investment, but Β£50,000+ is typical.
β Business must be innovative, scalable, and viable.
β Valid for 3 years; leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
β Path to UK citizenship after 5β6 years of residence.
Start-up Visa β For Early-Stage Founders
Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to set up their first UK-based business.
Key Highlights:
β Valid for 2 years (non-renewable).
β No capital required, but endorsement is mandatory.
β Must switch to Innovator Founder Visa to stay long-term.
β Does not directly lead to ILR.
Skilled Worker Visa β Self/Staff Sponsorship
Investors who own UK companies can sponsor themselves or key staff under this route.
Key Highlights:
β Requires a genuine UK business and valid job role.
β Salary thresholds must be met.
β Leads to ILR after 5 years of residence.
β Citizenship application possible after 1 year holding ILR.
Global Talent Visa β High-Achievers
For outstanding individuals in tech, arts, science, and research.
Key Highlights:
β Requires endorsement from a UK-approved body.
β ILR eligibility in 3 years (if exceptional talent).
β Citizenship eligibility after 6 years total.
Path to UK Citizenship
Step-by-Step Timeline:
Years 0β3/5: Live under a qualifying visa (e.g., Innovator, Skilled Worker).
ILR: Apply after 3β5 years; grants permanent residence.
Citizenship: Apply 1 year after ILR, meeting residency and language criteria.
Estimated Costs & Requirements
| Category | Estimated Investment | Other Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Innovator Founder Visa | Β£50,000+ (typical) | Legal + endorsement fees |
| Start-up Visa | No capital required | Endorsement + legal fees |
| Skilled Worker (Self-sponsorship) | Varies | Sponsor license: Β£536βΒ£1,476 |
| Global Talent Visa | No capital required | Endorsement + legal fees |
| ILR Application | β | Β£2,404 per person + Β£624 NHS/year |
| Citizenship Application | β | Β£1,580 + Life in UK Test & English Test |
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