The Innovator Founder Visa is a UK immigration route introduced in April 2023 for non-UK residents looking to establish a business in the UK. This visa replaces both the Innovator Visa and Start-up Visa, offering a streamlined pathway for foreign entrepreneurs.
Key Benefits
The Innovator Founder Visa incorporates the most attractive aspects of its predecessor routes, including:
✅ No minimum investment requirement (£50,000 investment is no longer mandatory).
✅ Reduced endorsing body check-ins (only two required instead of three under the Start-up Visa).
✅ Permitted secondary employment (under certain conditions).
✅ Path to UK settlement (time spent in the UK under this visa counts toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a business idea endorsed by an authorised UK endorsing body.
- Demonstrate that the business is innovative, viable, and scalable.
- Have generated or significantly contributed to the business concept.
- Meet the English language requirement (CEFR Level B2 in speaking and listening).
- Show sufficient personal funds (£1,270 in savings for at least 28 days before applying).
Approved Endorsing Bodies
Only Home Office-authorised organisations can provide the required endorsement. These include:
- Envestors Limited
- UK Endorsing Services
- Innovator International
- The Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP)
Legacy endorsing bodies (previously part of the Innovator Visa scheme) can still endorse applicants who entered the Innovator Visa before 13 April 2023, but only for the same business idea used in their previous application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Innovator Founder Visa cost?
- £1,191 per person (if applying from outside the UK).
- £1,486 per person (if extending or switching within the UK).
Does this visa lead to settlement?
Yes. Innovator founders are granted permission to live and work in the UK for up to 3 years. After this period, provided they meet the relevant requirements, they can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Can I bring dependents?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can accompany or join you in the UK under a Dependant Visa. They can:
- Work in any sector, including self-employment and voluntary work (except as a sportsperson or coach).
- Pursue any studies while in the UK.
Why Choose UK Visas?
At UK Visas, we provide expert guidance to entrepreneurs, ensuring a smooth, stress-free visa application process. Our specialists take the time to understand your business goals and recommend the best solutions for a successful UK expansion.
