What is the Tier 1 Genuine Entrepreneur test?

The Tier 1 Genuine Entrepreneur test was introduced by the UKVI on 31 January 2013 to ensure that applicants applying for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa had the relevant business experience and skills to successfully establish, take over or run a UK business.

This requirement does not replace the pre-existing points-based requirements of the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa application, such as demonstrating that applicants have sufficient funds to invest in the UK.  The test was introduced to further strengthen the Home Office vetting process of assessing the applicant’s credibility.

Assessing the Tier 1 Genuine Entrepreneur requirement

In order to assess whether an applicant meets with the Genuine Entrepreneur test, the Home Office will consider the following:

• Does the applicant genuinely have access to the required amount of funds for the purposes of investing in the business or businesses?
• How will the applicant invest the required amount of funds into the business? Is this a viable and credible investment?
• The thoroughness of the business plan; they should provide the UKVI with a comprehensive breakdown of how the applicant proposes to invest the funds in either establishing or running an existing UK business. The Home Office  will also look for evidence of market research in the context of awareness of competitors and knowledge of how to conduct the proposed business.
• The applicant’s educational background and relevant work experience to ascertain credibility to successfully conduct the business venture proposed – are they suitable for the job?

It is initially assessed through the submission of documents provided, namely the business plan and the supporting evidence and information. These are then reassessed during the interview stage, where the Home Office tries to determine whether the applicant genuinely understands the nature of business proposed and if they possess the relevant skill set and credibility to undertake the same.

Top tip to meet Genuine Entrepreneur requirement

Make sure you provide a comprehensive overview of your proposed business venture. It is advisable to consult a professional to assist you in drafting the business plan in order to cover every aspect of it; no amount of detail is likely to be excessive.

Info-graph on the Genuine Entrepreneur Test

How can NA Law Solicitors help?

We are a niche immigration law firm based in Brentford, West London. Our team of immigration lawyers specialise in the provision of advise to HNW clients, advising on the Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa application, the genuineness test, accelerated settlement applications and the team entrepreneur visa route. We also advise on the Tier 1 Investor application and the Sole representative visa application.

Please get in touch for a free initial consultation.