Introduction
The United Kingdom Investor Visa is a program that allows foreign nationals to live and invest in the UK for an extended period. The program is designed for high net worth individuals who wish to invest in the UK’s economy and enjoy the country’s benefits. Successful applicants are granted an initial three-year visa that can be extended for another two years before they can apply for permanent residency.
This article provides comprehensive guidelines on how to apply for the UK Investor Visa, including eligibility requirements, investment options and FAQs.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the UK Investor Visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Age: You must be 18 years and above.
2. Investment Funds: You must invest at least £2 million in the UK economy.
3. Source of funds: You must provide evidence that your investment funds are from a legitimate source, such as inheritance, gift, or business profits.
4. Maintenance Funds: You must have at least £2,000 in your personal savings account for at least three months before applying for the visa.
5. Criminal Record: You must have no criminal record and have not violated any immigration laws in the UK.
6. English Language: You must show proficiency in the English language, and you must provide evidence of this during the application process.
7. TB Test: If you’re a resident of a specific country, you must pass the tuberculosis test before applying for the visa.
Investment Options
The UK Investor Visa program requires you to invest at least £2 million in the UK economy. There are a few investment options available for you, which include:
1. UK Government Bonds: You can invest in UK government bonds for a minimum of £2 million for an agreed period.
2. Share Capital: You can invest in share capital of a UK company registered on the London Stock Exchange for a minimum of £2 million.
3. Loan Capital: You can loan a minimum of £2 million to a UK company registered on the London Stock Exchange.
4. UK Investment Fund: You can invest at least £2 million in a UK regulated investment fund.
Application Procedure
The application procedure for the UK Investor Visa is as follows:
1. Prepare Supporting Documents: Before submitting your application, prepare all the required documents to support your application.
2. Submit Online Application: You can submit your application online.
3. Biometric Appointment: Once your application is submitted, you will receive an email from the Home Office asking you to attend a biometric appointment at a VFS Global Centre.
4. Receive Visa Decision: Your visa decision will get sent to you no later than three weeks after attending your biometric appointment.
5. Register with the Police (if required): If your visa requires you to register with the UK police, you must do so within seven days after arriving in the UK.
6. Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): After you arrive in the UK, you must collect your BRP within ten days from a nominated Post Office.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of the UK Investor Visa?
The UK Investor Visa is initially granted for three years, and it can be extended for another two years before you can apply for permanent residency.
2. Can I bring my spouse and children to the UK under the Investor Visa program?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children under the age of 18 to the UK on a dependent visa.
3. How much must I invest in the UK economy to qualify for the Investor Visa?
You must invest £2 million in the UK economy to qualify for the Investor Visa.
4. Can I work in the UK under the Investor Visa?
Yes, you can work in the UK under any capacity.
Conclusion
The UK Investor Visa program provides an excellent opportunity for high net worth individuals worldwide to invest in the UK economy and enter the country. To qualify for this visa, you must meet the eligibility requirements and invest at least £2 million in the UK economy. With the guidelines provided above and the FAQs, you can better understand the process and consider whether this visa would be suitable for you.