Legacy Tier 1 & Tier 2 routes

A clear starting point

Understand how historic visa names relate to current routes and remaining rights. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

People with historic Tier permission, previous refusals or old guidance that uses discontinued route names. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

People with historic Tier permission, previous refusals or old guidance that uses discontinued route names.

General eligibility and requirements

Many historic routes have closed to new applicants or been replaced. Existing holders may have limited transitional, extension or settlement options that depend on their exact grant history.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• All historic grant letters
• old passports
• investment or business records if relevant
• sponsorship history
• application and expiry dates

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Identify the exact historic route, first grant and subsequent application dates. Distinguish closed new-entry routes from any remaining provisions for existing holders.
2. Check the current and archived official provisions relevant to the proposed next step. Do not assume that old extension or settlement rights remain available indefinitely.
3. Compare any lawful current-route alternative with the existing-holder provisions. Prepare the evidence and timeline for the option that actually applies.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Treating archived Tier 1 guidance as an open investment route, ignoring closure dates and assuming every Tier 2 condition matches Skilled Worker rules.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions