Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur)
The Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur category will close to new applicants on 5 July 2019 and is being replaced with the Start-up visa. Those wishing to make an application under Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur must have received an endorsement by 5 April 2019.
The Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa is designed to enable recent graduates to set up a business in the UK. The applicant must be highly skilled in their chosen field of entrepreneurship and have a clear and legitimate business plan.
Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur: Main requirements
In order to qualify for a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa the applicant must be able to demonstrate that:
- they have a UK degree level qualification;
- they are endorsed by a higher education institution (HEI) or by the Department for International Trade (DIT);
- they have at least £945 in savings if applying from inside the UK or at least £1,890 if applying from outside the UK (this money must have been held in a bank account for at least 90 days prior to making the application); and
- they do not fall for refusal under the general grounds for refusal.
Length and conditions of stay in the UK
Successful applicants under this route will be granted leave for an initial period of 12 months. This can be extended for an additional 12 months if the applicant’s business is developing and the progress has been satisfactory. This must be demonstrated by a new endorsement letter from the applicant’s HEI or the DIT.
Once an applicant holds leave under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur category, they are able to switch to the Tier 1 Entrepreneur category at any point providing they meet the further eligibility criteria.
Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa applications: How we can help
The Home Office will carefully scrutinise an application for a Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa. If it does not consider that the applicant meets all requirements, the application will fall for refusal. It is therefore essential that the application is prepared thoroughly and carefully.
We are experienced in preparing Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur visa applications to ensure a successful outcome and will provide expert guidance and assistance to you throughout the process.
For further advice, please contact us.