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Wealthy foreigners are to be given fast-tracked immigration rights under plans outlined by ministers today.
Foreign investors who plough £10m into the British economy will be allowed to apply for citizenship after the money has been place for two years.
Those investing £5m will be able to apply after their investment has been in place for three years.
While those who can hold £1m in a British bank will continue to qualify for settlement after five years.
The amount of time these people are allowed to be absent from the UK will be increased from 90 to 180 days "enabling international business people to better manage their affairs abroad".
Immigration minister Damian Green also announced that 1,000 places in a new category of "exceptionally talented migrants" working in the science or the arts will be opened.
Green said: "Today I have sent out a clear message – the UK remains open for business and we want those who have the most to offer to come and settle here.
"Entrepreneurs and investors can play a major part in our economic recovery and I want to do everything I can to ensure that Britain remains an attractive destination for them.
"Last year we issued far too few visas to those who wish to set up a business or invest in the UK – I intend to change that."
In a written statement to Parliament, Green said the government was committed to reducing net migration in the UK to the "tens of thousands" despite the invitation to the world's richest people.
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