UK INNOVATOR FOUNDER VISA

For Ambitious Entrepreneurs Starting a Business in the UK

The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish and grow an innovative, viable, and scalable business in the UK.

If you have a unique business idea, a strong plan, and the ambition to launch or expand your venture in the UK, this visa offers a direct pathway to residence—and ultimately, settlement.

Introduced in April 2023, the Innovator Founder Visa replaces both the Innovator Visa and Start-up Visa routes, combining elements of both.

It is aimed at:

• Entrepreneurs with genuine, original business ideas
• Founders who plan to be fully involved in building the business
• Applicants who want to live and work in the UK to grow their venture
  
  

This visa is typically granted for 3 years, and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—permanent settlement—after that period.

Key Benefits

• No minimum investment requirement (unlike the old Innovator Visa)
• Permission to work outside your business (limited to supplementary work)
• Fast-track to settlement after 3 years
• Dependants (partner and children) can apply with you
• Access to healthcare, education, and opportunities across the UK

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible if you:

1. Have a genuine, innovative business idea that brings something new to the UK market
2. Have a plan that is viable and scalable, with potential for growth and job creation
3. Can demonstrate you will be actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business
4. Have the endorsement of an approved UK endorsing body

You do not need to have a certain amount of money to invest upfront—but you do need to show you can support yourself financially in the UK.

Business Endorsement Requirement

Before applying, you must get an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body. This body will assess your business plan for:

• Innovation – Is the idea original and different from existing businesses?
• Viability – Are you capable of running the business successfully?
• Scalability – Can the business grow, create jobs, and enter new markets?

You must maintain contact with the endorsing body and meet checkpoints during your visa period.

We will help you connect with a solicitor who can:

• Review and refine your business plan
• Help you choose the right endorsing body
• Assist with preparing for endorsement interviews or submissions
• Navigate rejections or appeals if your idea is initially declined

Application Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation
 Speak to a solicitor to assess your eligibility and refine your business concept.

Step 2: Secure Endorsement
 Submit your business plan to a Home Office-approved endorsing body.

Step 3: Visa Application
 Apply online, provide biometrics, and submit supporting documents.

Step 4: Decision
 Receive a decision, usually within 3–8 weeks (depending on where you apply from).

Step 5: Launch Your Business
 Arrive in the UK and start working on your business under close supervision of your endorsing body.

Why Work With Us?

The Innovator Founder route is highly competitive and scrutinised. We will help you connect with a UK immigration solicitor who specialises in business immigration and understands what it takes to succeed.

Your solicitor will:

• Help shape your business concept into an endorsable plan
• Guide you through endorsement, application, and documentation
• Ensure your case meets Home Office requirements
• Advise on your route to permanent residency and citizenship