Proposed £5 Million UK Investor Visa: Reported Plans, Current Rules and What to Watch Next

Bloomberg has reported that the UK is considering a new invite-only investor visa requiring a minimum investment of £5 million into priority areas of the UK economy.

If developed, this could mark a significant shift in the UK’s approach to attracting high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs and strategic international investment.

However, it is important to be clear: this is not currently an open visa route.

The previous Tier 1 Investor visa remains closed to new applicants. At present, there has been no formal Immigration Rules change or published Home Office route confirming a new £5 million investor visa.

That distinction matters.

For investors, advisers and businesses, the key questions will be:

• Who would qualify for an invite-only route?
• What would count as a qualifying investment?
• Would passive investment be excluded?
• What level of source of funds and due diligence checks would apply?
• Would the route lead to settlement, and if so, on what terms?

The direction of travel is worth watching. The UK Government has already signalled a desire to attract exceptional global talent, investors and high-growth founders. A carefully designed investor route could sit within that wider policy direction.

But until formal rules are published, applicants should be cautious. This should be treated as a reported proposal, not a live immigration category.

At LF Legal, we assist individuals, businesses and international clients with UK immigration strategy, sponsor licensing, business immigration and complex applications.

If you are considering UK immigration options linked to investment, business growth or relocation, early legal advice is essential.