As a UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa holder, you may be considering the next steps towards securing your future in the UK. One of these steps is applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), a form of permanent residency that allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions. This ultimate guide will provide you with all the necessary information about the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR, including eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and more. Whether you’re just starting your entrepreneurial journey in the UK or are nearing the end of your visa validity, this guide will help you navigate the path towards securing your ILR.
Understanding the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
The UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR is a form of permanent residency available to those who have been in the UK on a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa. It allows you to live and work in the UK without any restrictions, and you can apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for one year. The main advantage of ILR is that it provides stability and certainty, as you no longer need to worry about visa renewals or restrictions.
Eligibility Criteria for UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
To be eligible for the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR, you must meet several criteria:
- You must have spent a continuous period of 5 years in the UK as a Tier 1 Entrepreneur.
- You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the 5 years.
- You must have created at least two full-time jobs that lasted for at least one year.
- You must have sufficient knowledge of the English language and life in the UK.
Application Process for UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
The application process for the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR involves several steps:
- Check your eligibility: Before you start the application process, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Prepare your documents: Gather all the necessary documents to support your application.
- Complete the application form: Fill in the application form for ILR, which is available on the UK government’s website.
- Pay the application fee: The fee for ILR is currently £2,389.
- Attend a biometric information appointment: You will need to provide your fingerprints and a photo at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
- Wait for a decision: The decision on your application will usually be made within six months.
Required Documents for UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
You will need to provide several documents to support your application for the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR:
- Current passport and any old passports that you have used to travel to the UK.
- Proof of your business activities, such as business accounts, tax returns, and contracts.
- Evidence of the jobs you have created, such as payslips and contracts of employment.
- Proof of your knowledge of English and life in the UK, such as a pass certificate from an approved English language test or a Life in the UK test.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR
Applying for the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR can be a complex process, and it’s easy to make mistakes that could jeopardize your application. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not meeting the residency requirement: Remember, you must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the 5 years.
- Not providing sufficient evidence of your business activities: Make sure you provide detailed and accurate evidence of your business activities and the jobs you have created.
- Not preparing for the Life in the UK test: This test is a crucial part of the application process, so make sure you prepare thoroughly.
Conclusion
Applying for the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur ILR is a significant step towards securing your future in the UK. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and required documents, you can increase your chances of a successful application. Remember to avoid common mistakes and prepare thoroughly to ensure a smooth application process. Good luck with your application!
