The Innovator Founder visa is designed for entrepreneurs who want to set up or grow an innovative, viable, and scalable business in the UK. Introduced in April 2023, it replaced the old Innovator and Start-Up visas. Unlike the previous routes, there is no fixed £50,000 investment requirement, making this a more accessible route for genuine business founders. If you meet the requirements, this route leads to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after just 3 years.
Why Choose the Innovator Founder Visa?
- Fast-track to Settlement (ILR): Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after just 3 years.
- Run Your Own Business: Actively develop and manage your UK business.
- Flexibility: Take up secondary skilled employment (RQF Level 3+) alongside your business.
- Family Friendly: Bring your partner and children as dependents.
- Travel & Work: Live, work, and travel freely while building your business.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Innovator Founder visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Requirement | Details |
Endorsement | You must receive an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body. The letter must confirm your business is innovative, viable, and scalable and must be issued within 3 months of applying. |
Business Idea | Your business must be original (not already trading), have potential for growth and job creation, and show strong market prospects. |
Active Role | You must play a key role in the day-to-day management and development of the business. |
English Language | Meet the English requirement in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. |
Financial Requirement | If applying from outside the UK (or in the UK for less than 12 months), show £1,270 in personal savings held for 28 days. |
Age | You must be 18 years or older at the time of application. |
Duration & Settlement
- Visa granted for 3 years initially. You can extend further 3-year periods as long as business progress is demonstrated.
- Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) possible after 3 years on this route if you meet criteria: continuous residence, endorsement renewal for settlement, progress under business plan, etc.
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Fees & Processing Times
What | Amount / Time |
Visa application fee (outside UK) | £1,274 |
Visa application fee (extend or switch inside UK) | £1,590 |
Endorsement fee | £1,000 plus £500 for each contact point meeting |
Decision time | 3 weeks (outside UK), ~8 weeks (inside) |
What Endorsing Bodies Look For
- Strong business plan showing innovation, market research, and growth potential.
- Evidence of relevant experience and ability to deliver on the plan.
- Plans for job creation or contribution to the UK economy.
- Proof of scalability – that the business can grow, possibly internationally.
- Consistency, realism and proof of progress in contact point meetings.