September was the highest month for Tech Nation visa applications since records began in 2014, following August being the third highest month for visa applications.

Tech Nation also stated that applications in the third quarter were up 42 per cent on the previous quarter, and up eight per cent on the same period last year.

Applicants have predominantly come from India, Russia and the US, and from backgrounds in software development, cloud computing and artificial intelligence.

Stephen Kelly, chair of Tech Nation, commented: “The data flies in the face of claims that remote working and COVID-19 will deter people coming to the UK to work - quite the contrary, in an environment where talented entrepreneurs are facing potential obstacles in moving to the US, the UK is a natural home."

He explained that around a quarter of those who receive a Tech Nation visa are founders, who are bringing capital and jobs to fuel the UK's economic growth. In 2019, £10.1 billion was invested into UK tech companies, which created 2.92 million jobs.

“As countries like France, Germany and the Netherlands become more competitive tech ecosystems, it’s essential international entrepreneurs feel welcome," added Kelly. "In addition to low administrative burdens, we need to continue to have support structures in place for a soft landing when talent arrives as well as favourable business environments."

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