Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)
Settlement
This section explains whether and how you can apply for permission to settle in the UK (also known as 'indefinite leave to remain') if you are here under Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) of the points-based system.
On this page
Full details of these requirements are in Part 6A of the Immigration Rules, which you can find on the right side of this page.
When can you apply for settlement?
Depending on your level of investment and business activity in the UK, you must complete a continuous residence period of 3 or 5 years in an eligible immigration category before you can apply for settlement.
The continuous residence period is 3 years if:
- your business has created at least 10 new full-time jobs for settled people; or
- you have established a new UK business that has had an income from business activity of at least £5 million during a 3-year period while you have been in the UK under Tier 1 (Entrepreneur); or
- you have taken over or invested in an existing UK business, and your services or investment have resulted in a net increase of £5 million in that business's income from business activity during a 3-year period while you have been in the UK under Tier 1 (Entrepreneur), compared to the immediately preceding 3-year period.
The continuous residence period is 5 years in all other cases.
During the continuous residence period, you cannot be outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12 calendar months.
The continuous residence period can include time spent in the UK as a business person or an innovator.
You must have sufficient English language ability and knowledge of life in the UK, unless you are under 18 years old or over 65 years old when you apply. You can find more information in the Settlement section.
Additional requirements
You must show that you are engaged in business activity at the time when you apply for settlement.
You must also meet all other requirements of the Immigration Rules. The Immigration Rules are subject to change, and you must meet the requirements that are in place at the time when you apply for settlement.
Can your dependants apply for settlement?
The partner of an entrepreneur can apply for settlement at the same time as the entrepreneur, if they have lived together in the UK for at least 2 years before applying for settlement.
An entrepreneur's child can apply for settlement at the same time as the entrepreneur, as long as the child meets the requirements of the Immigration Rules.
Application forms
Application for permanent residence in the UK in an employment or other category listed on the form
- Form SET(O) PDF 1.0MB opens in a new window
- Guide SET(O) PDF 208KB opens in a new window
- Photo guidance (new)PDF 325KB opens in a new window