According to local British media reports, from 2012 to 2013, 530 people worldwide successfully immigrated to the UK with their families through the £1 million investment program, an increase of 25% over the previous year. Among them, the growing number of Chinese investors represents the largest group for this visa category, with 171 Chinese applicants approved between 2012 and 2013, an increase of 80% over the previous year.
Although European immigration is considered "high-end" in the minds of Chinese people, it has long remained a secondary choice in the immigration market due to strict policies. However, as policies have gradually relaxed over the past two years, European immigration has become popular. As for why the UK is favored, it comes down to several aspects: the natural and cultural environment, children's education, social security, and the welfare system. Furthermore, when David Cameron led a delegation to China for a trade visit, he also signaled the coalition government's welcome for Chinese capital and Chinese investors.
The restrictions for this policy on applicants are almost zero, with no requirements for language proficiency, management experience, or proof of source of funds, allowing the whole family to immigrate with one application. Regarding documentation, one only needs to easily submit basic materials such as photos, a passport, an ID card, and a household registration book, along with a bank statement showing a deposit of over £1 million outside the country. After 5 years of investment, one may even achieve moderate profits if managed properly.
The draft amendments to the UK immigration law, which came into effect on April 6 of this year, 2014, differed from previous rumors. This latest plan did not raise the investment threshold for the Tier 1 Investor Visa from £1 million to £2 million, and it even relaxed the requirement to complete the investment within 3 months of entry, releasing positive news that welcomes investment immigration.
