6 December 2018

The Government announced today that the Tier 1 (Investor) route will be suspended for new applications from midnight tonight until further notice in 2019. A significant overhaul is expected, including applicants being required to provide comprehensive audit trails showing the origin of their investment. Changes are also expected to the permitted forms of investment, including the removal of government bonds and instead requiring applicants to invest in active and trading UK registered companies.

Existing Tier 1 Investors
The suspension should not affect Tier 1 (Investor) applications which have already been submitted and are pending a decision. The suspension is only in relation to new initial applications; Tier 1 (Investor) extension and indefinite leave to remain (ILR) applications should not be affected.

If you have any queries in relation to any of the changes, please contact your usual LDS lawyer or here.