Photo: Matt Dunham/AP Photo/picture alliance
The program would have a minimum investment threshold of about 5 million pounds ($6.8 million). The funds must be directed toward British companies and priority economic sectors. Investments in real estate will not count toward the requirement.
According to the FT, the program may be limited and operate on an invitation-only basis. There is also discussion of stricter controls on the source of capital to avoid the problems encountered by the previous investment visa program, which was discontinued in 2022.
The initiative is part of broader discussions on attracting foreign capital amid slowing economic growth and competition for investment. As Bloomberg notes, the idea of reinstating investment mechanisms was considered as part of a review of immigration and economic policy.
According to the FT, Business Secretary Peter Kyle has expressed support for the project. He believes that the UK needs to compete more actively for global capital and wealthy investors.
So far, there is no unified position within the government. The Home Office and the Treasury are approaching the initiative with caution, pointing to its limited economic impact and potential reputational risks.
There are also concerns about the risk of abuse and the difficulties in verifying the source of funds.
