UK Innovator Founder Visa

The UK Innovator Founder Visareplaces the old Innovator Visa, offering a pathway for experienced entrepreneursto establish innovative businesses in the UK. This visa is ideal for startup founders, business innovators, and investorslooking to build scalable ventures.

Key Features

Category	Details
Visa Type	Business/startup visa
Eligibility	Innovative, scalable business idea
Duration	3 years (extendable)
Settlement	Eligible after 3 years
Processing Time	3-8 weeks
Application Fee	£1,191

Eligibility Requirements

For Applicants

• Endorsementfrom an approved UK endorsing body
• Innovative business idea(new or existing)
• Business planshowing scalability & viability
• English proficiency(B2 level)
• £50,000 funding(unless exempt)

For Businesses

• Must be different from existing UK businesses
• Must show potential for growth & job creation
• Must meet at least 2 key criteria(see below)

Key Endorsement Criteria

Your business must meet 2 of the following:

• Innovation: Genuine, original business idea
• Viability: Realistic plan to succeed
• Scalability: Potential for national/international growth

Application Process Step-by-Step

Stage 1: Secure Endorsement

• Identify an endorsing body(e.g., incubators, accelerators)
• Prepare a detailed business plan
• Submit endorsement application
• Receive decision(3-8 weeks)

Stage 2: Visa Application

• Complete online application
• Pay fees:
  • £1,191 (visa fee)
  • £1,035/year (IHS surcharge)
• Submit supporting documents
• Biometrics appointment
• Receive decision

Financial Requirements

• £50,000 investment(unless exempt)
• Personal savings(£1,270+ for 28 days)

Work & Business Rights

• Work on your own business only(no other employment)
• Bring dependents(spouse/children can work)
• Extend visaafter 3 years
• Apply for settlement (ILR)after 3 years

Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

• Must show business progress(jobs created, revenue growth)
• Must meet 2+ endorsement criteria again
• Pass Life in the UK test & English B1

Comparison With Other UK Business Visas

Visa	For	Investment Needed?	Settlement Path
Innovator Founder	Scalable startups	£50K (sometimes waived)	3 years
Startup Visa	Early-stage founders	None	Switch to Innovator
Skilled Worker	Employer-sponsored	None	5 years