Highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs
This section describes the routes available to highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs who want to work in the UK. You should read the eligibility requirements for your category in full before making an application.
Our service standards set out how quickly we aim to decide applications.
For applications made in the UK under an employment route, the standard is that we will decide 75 per cent of applications within four weeks
The current immigration categories for highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs are listed below.
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Highly skilled workers
This section explains how to apply under Tier 1 (General) of the points-based system. You do not need to have a job offer, but you must demonstrate that you are highly skilled, have money to support yourself and can speak English.
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Entrepreneurs
This section explains the requirements for applying under Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) of the points-based system. If you want to come to the United Kingdom as an entrepreneur, there are specific arrangements for you.
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Investors
This section explains the requirements for applying under Tier 1 (Investor) of the points-based system. If you want to invest in the United Kingdom you will need to demonstrate that you have the money to do so.
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Post-study workers
This section explains how you can apply under Tier 1 (Post-study work) of the points-based system. If you graduated from a university in the UK, you can apply to stay here to work when you have completed your studies.
Schemes that closed on 29 June 2008
The schemes listed below closed on 29 June 2008. If you currently have permission to stay in the UK under one of these categories and you want to extend your stay, you must apply under one of the categories shown above.
If you have been in the UK for five years or more under one of these categories, you may be able to apply to settle permanently in the UK. For more information, select your current immigration category from the list below.
