The United Kingdom is planning a new visa for ultra-wealthy foreigners. According to Bloomberg, this new UK investor visa will require a massive £5 million (about US$6.7 million) investment. In return, successful applicants will get a fast 3-year path to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
Unlike old programs, this visa will be “invite-only.” The government will choose specific entrepreneurs and global investors to apply, making it a very exclusive option.
What Are the New Rules?
The UK government wants to make sure this program brings real value to the country. Here is what you need to know about the new rules:
- No Real Estate: Investors cannot buy houses or property to get this visa. This rule stops people from buying empty luxury homes just for a passport.
- Priority Sectors Only: The £5 million must go into important areas of the British economy, such as fast-growing UK businesses.
- Strict Checks: The government will perform very deep background and money-laundering checks on every applicant.
Why Is the UK Doing This Now?
In recent years, the UK lost many of its richest residents. After the government removed special tax benefits for wealthy non-domiciled residents in April 2025, thousands of millionaires left the country.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle admitted that higher taxes forced many ultra-rich people to depart. Now, London is trying hard to bring that global wealth back. Other countries like the UAE and Italy are also competing for the same group of rich investors.
A Changing Visa System
This new proposal arrives at a time when the UK immigration system is becoming stricter for normal visas. For example, in January 2026, the government raised the English language requirement to a higher level (B2). For most standard migrants, the time to get permanent residency has also increased from 5 years to 10 years.
However, for the ultra-wealthy, this new £5 million visa offers an express lane.
The program is still a proposal and needs final political approval. If it becomes official, it will be the most expensive and exclusive investor visa in the world.
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