Entrepreneurs
This section explains how you can come to the United Kingdom or remain here as an entrepreneur (Tier 1 Entrepreneur) under our points-based system to work in business in the United Kingdom.
What is the entrepreneur category?
The entrepreneur category is for those investing in the United Kingdom by setting up or taking over, and being actively involved in the running of, one or more businesses in the United Kingdom.
Who can apply as an entrepreneur?
You can apply under the entrepreneur category now if you are:
- in the United Kingdom and want to make an initial application as an entrepreneur;
- already in the United Kingdom as an entrepreneur and want to extend your permission to stay within your existing category;
- already in the United Kingdom as a business person or innovator and want to extend your permission to stay in the entrepreneur category;
- applying for permission to enter the United Kingdom (known as 'entry clearance') under the entrepreneur category.
Go to our visa services website if you are applying from outside the United Kingdom. There you can download the application forms and find out more about the process in the country you are applying from.
If you are a Turkish citizen who is currently outside the United Kingdom or legally in the United Kingdom under a different immigration category, you can apply to establish yourself in business under the European Community Association Agreement with Turkey. We will consider your application under different rules from those for Tier 1 entrepreneurs.