High-value migrants

This section contains details of the immigration routes available to exceptionally talented and highly skilled workers, investors and entrepreneurs wanting to work in the UK. You should read the eligibility requirements for your category in full before making an application.

Tier 1 of the UK's points-based system is for high-value migrants, and currently contains 5 categories.

The current Tier 1 categories are:

  • Tier 1 (Exceptional talent)

    This section describes the Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) category of the points-based system.

  • Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)

    This section describes the Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) category of the points-based system, for people who want to set up or take over, and be actively involved in running, a business or businesses here.

  • Tier 1 (Investor)

    This section describes the Tier 1 (Investor) category of the points-based system, for people who want make a substantial financial investment in the UK.

  • Tier 1 (General)

    This section describes the Tier 1 (General) category of the points-based system, for highly skilled workers. This category is now closed to applicants outside the UK, and to migrants who are already here in most other immigration categories.

  • Tier 1 (Graduate entrepreneur)

    This section explains how you can remain in the UK under the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) category of the points-based system.

Closed categories

The immigration categories below have closed. If you currently have permission to stay in the UK in one of these categories and you want to extend your stay, you must apply under one of the Tier 1 categories listed above.

If you have been in the UK for 5 years or more under one of these closed categories, you may be able to apply to settle permanently in the UK. For more information, select your current category from the list below.