Business Migrant Route
In 2017, a consultation regarding the Isle of Man Immigration Points Based System (PBS) was published to understand the views, ideas and suggestions from members of the public to help shape and inform the development of the Island’s immigration routes and rules. This consultation highlighted the need to replace the Tier 2 PBS Worker route and rules as a priority for Isle of Man businesses. In April 2018 the Worker Route to the Isle of Man was introduced.
A Review of the Tier 1 PBS routes was placed on the Programme for Government 2019/20 Edition [GD 2019/0052] with a targeted delivery date of April 2020. The Cabinet Office and Department for Enterprise sought feedback regarding alternative routes for the Tier 1 Points Based System in August 2019.
The Cabinet Office and Department for Enterprise are pleased to announce the introduction of two new Immigration Routes to the Isle of Man. These routes will replace the existing Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) and Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) PBS routes.
Start Up
This sub-category is for individuals seeking to establish a business in the Isle of Man for the first time. Migrants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea. This category offers leave for 2 years and 4 months only. This category does not lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain. Migrants may progress into the Innovator sub-category.
Innovator
This sub-category is for individuals with business experience seeking to establish, join or take over one or more businesses in the Isle of Man. Migrants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea. With some exceptions, Migrants will have the required funding to invest in the business. This category may lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Current Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) or Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) PBS visas remain valid.
When it comes to applying for Leave to Remain, applicants may do so either via the existing Tier 1 PBS requirements or, should they wish, switch into the new Innovator category.
The existing Attribute requirements (in Appendix A) for the Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) PBS route have also been redrafted in order to make the Leave to Remain application process clearer and easier for applicants to follow. There are no significant changes to the requirements themselves.
Further Information
The new Immigration Routes are to be laid before of Tynwald, 17 March sitting, and are due to come in to operation 6 April 2020.
Fees
| Business Migrant Route | Entry Clearance | Leave to remain/switching |
|---|---|---|
| Start-up (Main applicant) | £363 | £493 |
| Start up (Dependants) | £363 per person | £493 per person |
| Innovator (Main applicant) | £1,021 | £1,277 |
| Innovator (Dependants) | £1,021 per person | £1,277 per person |
Endorsement
Both routes have a two stage application process. All Main applicants to both routes must obtain endorsement by the Department for Enterprise. The Department for Enterprise will determine if the business venture will benefit the Isle of Man, assess the source of funds, and monitor the progress of the business venture. The Applicant will use their Letter of Endorsement in support of their visa application.
English Language Requirements
The English language level has been set in line with the United Kingdom requirement at the upper intermediate level of B2.
Family Members
Family members of Start-up and Innovator Migrants will be able to join their Start up or Innovator family member in the Isle of Man.
