Tier 1 (General) is closed to overseas applicants. You can apply for this visa if you are already in the UK with leave in a category that permits switching into Tier 1 (General) such as:
- writer, composer or artist
- self-employed lawyer
- Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP)
You can also extend your existing Tier 1 (General) visa.
Please note: from 6 April 2015, Tier 1 (General) visa category will close and extension applications will no longer be accepted. Applicants who are currently in the UK and who wish to apply to extend their stay must submit an application on or before 5 April 2015.
Once you’ve spent a continuous period of 5 years (or 4 years if you received a HSMP approval letter issued on the basis of an application made before 3 April 2006,) lawfully in the UK, you may be able to apply for settlement. Applicants applying for settlement must ensure that they do not have excessive absences from the UK throughout the 5 years and can meet the specific Tier 1 (General) ILR requirements.
Please note: applications for settlement will no longer be accepted in this category from 6 April 2018. Applicants who wish to apply for settlement must submit an application on or before 5 April 2018.
UK immigration law is complicated and often confusing to those unfamiliar with the rules, regulations and procedures. Alrose Legal is on hand to translate technical issues into plain English and to provide you with superior solutions, whatever your immigration needs. Please feel free to contact us for professional advice.