Tier 1 Investor Visa Extension Deadline | February 2026 UK Update

The UK’s Tier 1 (Investor) visa enabled high-net-worth individuals to obtain UK residence by investing a minimum of £2 million in qualifying UK assets. Applicants could apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR, also called “settlement”) in the UK after five years, with accelerated settlement available at higher investment thresholds of £5 million and £10 million.

While the category closed to new applicants in 2022, existing investors can still qualify for settlement—provided they meet ongoing requirements and act before two key deadlines.

• • • Extension applications must be submitted by 17 February 2026

• • • Settlement (ILR) applications must be submitted by 17 February 2028

Why These Deadlines Matter for Tier 1 Investor Visa Holders

After 17 February 2026, no further extension applications can be submitted, and after 17 February 2028 the Tier 1 (Investor) route will permanently close. It is therefore vital for Investor visa holders to assess their position and obtain strategic advice to maximise any opportunity to reach settlement in the UK.

Who Can Still Qualify Under the Tier 1 (Investor) Route?

While new applications are no longer accepted, existing visa holders still have the opportunity to reach settlement, provided they have:

• • • Maintained their investment
    • Met physical residence requirements in the UK
    • Fulfilled the Life in the UK and English language requirements

Extension vs Settlement: Key Timing and Risk Considerations

Extension Applications: Deadline of 17 February 2026

Any individual who currently holds valid leave under the Tier 1 (Investor) category may apply for an extension up to 17 February 2026. This is a non-extendable deadline set out in Home Office policy.

Key points for extension applications:

• • • Applications can be submitted from inside or outside the UK
    • Investment must have been made within three months of entering the category (initial entry or switch)
    • Funds must be maintained in approved asset classes, within an account that is actively managed by an FCA-regulated institution
    • Successful applicants will receive two additional years of leave in the category

Indefinite Leave to Remain Applications: Deadline of 17 February 2028

Tier 1 (Investor) holders may apply for ILR until 17 February 2028, which represents the final opportunity to secure settlement under this route.

ILR applications must be made from within the UK, and applicants must be physically present in the UK at the date of submission.

Requirements include:

• • • Maintaining investments in approved asset classes
    • Complying with the permitted absence rule: no more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12-month period during the qualifying residence period
    • Passing the Life in the UK Test and meeting English language requirements (B1 CEFR or above), unless exempt
    • Dependants must meet separate ILR requirements and do not automatically qualify based on the main applicant’s investment level

Qualifying period for ILR Qualifying residence period for ILR depends on the level of investment maintained:

• • • £2 million → ILR after five years
    • £5 million → ILR after three years
    • £10 million → ILR after two years

 

Who Should Consider an Extension Instead of ILR

Some investors may be uncertain about meeting the requirements for ILR before their current visa expires, for example due to:

• • • Excessive absences from the UK (more than 180 days in any rolling 12-month period)
    • Difficulties passing the Life in the UK test
    • Challenges meeting the English language requirement

In such cases, it may be appropriate to consider submitting an extension application before 17 February 2026, provided eligibility criteria are met. Securing an extension can help maximise future flexibility and preserve lawful status while options are assessed, including alternative immigration routes if settlement under the Investor category is ultimately not achievable.

Why Early Action Matters

The closure of the Tier 1 (Investor) route has created a finite window for existing investor visa holders to secure long-term status in the UK.

The deadlines of 17 February 2026 for extensions and 17 February 2028 for ILR are strict. Missing either deadline may permanently remove a visa holder’s ability to continue living in the UK, or for settlement.  

At this stage, some investors may still have options to expedite their route to settlement. In specific cases, increasing investment levels to £5 million or £10 million can reduce the qualifying residence period. Given the complexity of the requirements, expert legal advice is recommended.

How Fragomen Supports Tier 1 Investor Clients Ahead of the Deadline

Given the complexity of the investment rules, the strict documentation standards, and the limited time remaining before the Tier 1 Investor route closes, early preparation is essential. Fragomen works closely with investors to guide them through extension and settlement options, offering clear, practical advice and support at every stage of the process.

Need To Know More?

To know more about the Tier 1 Investor route and available options ahead of the upcoming deadlines, contact Alex Hood at [email protected] or Kimberley Ong at [email protected]. Alternatively, visit Fragomen’s UK services page for individuals or employers and schedule a consultation.

This blog was published on 22 December 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.