For many years, the UK Tier 1 Investor Visa – often referred to as the “UK Golden Visa” – was a popular route for high-net-worth individuals seeking UK residency through substantial investments. While the official Golden Visa programme was closed in February 2022, many international investors continue to explore UK property as a strategic path toward settlement, long-term residence, or portfolio diversification.
At Fraser Bond, we work with foreign nationals looking to invest in UK real estate while navigating available visa alternatives, residency planning, and wealth structuring. This article explores what’s possible in today’s post-Golden Visa landscape and how property investment still plays a vital role in long-term UK relocation strategies.
The Tier 1 Investor Visa, introduced in 2008, allowed foreign nationals to gain UK residency by investing £2 million+ in government bonds, share capital, or UK-registered businesses. However, in February 2022, the UK government abolished the scheme, citing security concerns and misuse by certain applicants.
The visa is no longer available to new applicants
Existing holders may still apply for extension or settlement (ILR) under transitional rules
Property investments alone were never qualifying investments under Tier 1 – but many used real estate as part of broader wealth relocation
While UK property investment is not currently a direct route to residency, it remains a strategic asset for:
Future relocation planning (e.g. under Skilled Worker or Innovator Founder visas)
Supporting dependent family during education or long-term stays
Preparing for future visa eligibility or citizenship-by-naturalisation
Fraser Bond works closely with immigration specialists and legal partners to ensure your property purchase aligns with potential relocation goals.
Investors can sponsor themselves via a UK business or secure employment
Owning UK property can strengthen ties for settlement applications
For entrepreneurs launching innovative UK-based businesses
Investors can combine business activity with residential or commercial property ownership
Property ownership supports long-term settlement and financial independence
Ideal for buyers supporting dependents (e.g. children in UK schools/universities)
Parents investing in residential property near top schools and universities may apply for child student visas and support travel via visitor or dependent visas
Despite the closure of the Golden Visa, UK property remains highly attractive to global investors because of:
London and key UK cities offer stable growth, strong demand, and capital security
Buy-to-let properties generate income in GBP and reduce exposure to domestic economic risk
Many international families invest in homes near elite schools, with future plans to relocate or retire in the UK
Property ownership, while not a visa route itself, supports future applications and demonstrates ties to the UK
Fraser Bond supports international investors with:
