• Introduction of Tier 1 (Innovator Route), to replace current Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)
  • Reform of Tier 1 (Investor) Route
  • Shortly be publishing Statement of Intent setting out details of how the reformed routes will work
  • Further changes to be proposed under UK Tier 1 (Talent Visa) in support in leaders in their field and promising future leaders extending this option to leading architects endorsed by the Royal Institute of British Architects, under the remit of Arts Council England (ACE) as well as leading fashion designers also endorsed under the ACE remit with view to further attracting international talent
  • Further up to date changes in Tier 1 and Tier 2 routes for highly skilled workers, to ensure they are up to date
  • Perform roles including leading a congregation and preaching, without firstly needing to demonstrate speaking English to a high standard
  • Although still allowing for other religious groups to contribute to the UK in non-pastoral roles, by prohibiting Tier 5 Religious Workers filing roles as Ministers of Religion and redirecting them instead through the Tier 2 Minister of Religion sub category
  • A ‘cooling off period’ will be introduced, preventing Tier 5 Religious Worker and Tier 5 Charity Worker visa holders from returning to the UK, via such immigration routes for 12 months after their visa expires, clarifying the Government’s intention, that these are temporary routes
  • A Written Ministerial Statement (HCWS940) was introduced on 6 September by the Home Secretary, announcing a new pilot scheme for 2019, enabling non-EEA migrant workers to come to the UK to undertake seasonal employment in the Horticultural sector. The implementation date of the pilot will be announced in due course

These reforms will be introduced in spring, and will aim at ensuring that the UK remains “a world-leading destination for investment and innovation” as Caroline Nokes, Minister of Immigration confirmed in her written statement in the Houses of Parliament on Friday 7 December 2018.

Actions

Existing Tier 1 Investors or Entrepreneur Visa applicants are not required to take any action at this stage, however should seek legal advice as to what these changes will mean for them.

Astons Law has over 30 years’  expertise in offering UK Immigration services and legal support to individuals and corporate firms, with specialist advice on UK Tier 1 Investor and Entrepreneur Immigration, and Exceptional talent/Promise Services and can also assist with urgent processing and extension of UK visas and permanent residence and settlement status in the United Kingdom.

Astons Law is governed and regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA), adhering to the highest ethical and professional standards.

Astons is also a leading global immigration advisory firm offering residence & citizenship investment solutions in the EU and the Caribbean.

For further information on UK Tier 1 Investor or Entrepreneur Visa or other global residency or citizenship matters and to discuss your personal circumstances in a private consultation, please contact Astons at [email protected] or call +44207 292 2977.