Innovator Founder Visa Guide

Following the closure of the Start-up and Innovator visa routes, the sole immigration route now available to foreign nationals looking to establish and run their own business in the UK is the Innovator Founder visa.

This route is aimed at experienced entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas who are looking to launch scalable, viable ventures in the UK. Applicants must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body and meet a number of eligibility requirements.

If you are considering applying for this visa, it is important to start planning early, prepare a robust business plan, and understand the requirements set by both the endorsing body and the UK Home Office.

 
Section A: Overview of the Innovator Founder Visa
 

 
1. What is the Innovator Founder Visa?
 

The Innovator Founder visa is a UK immigration route that allows entrepreneurs to come to the UK to establish and operate an innovative business. Introduced in April 2023, the route replaced both the Start-up and Innovator visa categories and is now the only UK visa specifically designed for foreign nationals launching new businesses.

This is a competitive route with strict eligibility criteria, but it offers several advantages for successful applicants, including:

• The ability to live and work in the UK for an initial period of up to three years
• The ability to bring eligible family members (dependants) to the UK
• A path to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after three years
• Opportunities to demonstrate growth, job creation and international scalability

Applicants must secure endorsement from an approved endorsing body before they can apply for the visa. The business idea must meet the criteria of being innovative, viable and scalable.

 
2. Who is the visa for?
 

The Innovator Founder visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business that is different from anything else on the market. Applicants do not need to meet a specific investment threshold, but must have sufficient funds to support their business plan.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a new, original business idea that meets the innovation, viability and scalability criteria
• Secure endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body
• Meet the English language and financial maintenance requirements

This route is not open to individuals wishing to join existing businesses or engage in non-innovative commercial activity.

 
3. How long is the visa valid for?
 

Successful applicants will initially be granted a visa for up to three years. During this time, the individual must engage solely in the business activity for which they were endorsed. Secondary employment outside the endorsed business is not permitted.

Applicants may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after completing three continuous years under this route, subject to meeting all applicable ILR requirements.

Following the closure of the Start-up and Innovator visa routes, the sole immigration route now available to foreign nationals looking to establish and run their own business in the UK is the Innovator Founder visa.

This route is aimed at experienced entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas who are looking to launch scalable, viable ventures in the UK. Applicants must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body and meet a number of eligibility requirements.

If you are considering applying for this visa, it is important to start planning early, prepare a robust business plan, and understand the requirements set by both the endorsing body and the UK Home Office.

 
Section A: Overview of the Innovator Founder Visa
 

 
1. What is the Innovator Founder Visa?
 

The Innovator Founder visa is a UK immigration route that allows entrepreneurs to come to the UK to establish and operate an innovative business. Introduced in April 2023, the route replaced both the Start-up and Innovator visa categories and is now the only UK visa specifically designed for foreign nationals launching new businesses.

This is a competitive route with strict eligibility criteria, but it offers several advantages for successful applicants, including:

• The ability to live and work in the UK for an initial period of up to three years
• The ability to bring eligible family members (dependants) to the UK
• A path to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after three years
• Opportunities to demonstrate growth, job creation and international scalability

Applicants must secure endorsement from an approved endorsing body before they can apply for the visa. The business idea must meet the criteria of being innovative, viable and scalable.

 
2. Who is the visa for?
 

The Innovator Founder visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business that is different from anything else on the market. Applicants do not need to meet a specific investment threshold, but must have sufficient funds to support their business plan.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a new, original business idea that meets the innovation, viability and scalability criteria
• Secure endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body
• Meet the English language and financial maintenance requirements

This route is not open to individuals wishing to join existing businesses or engage in non-innovative commercial activity.

 
3. How long is the visa valid for?
 

Successful applicants will initially be granted a visa for up to three years. During this time, the individual must engage solely in the business activity for which they were endorsed. Secondary employment outside the endorsed business is not permitted.

Applicants may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after completing three continuous years under this route, subject to meeting all applicable ILR requirements.

 
Section B: Eligibility Requirements
 

 
1. Innovative Business Idea
 

To qualify for the Innovator Founder visa, applicants must present a business idea that is both new and original. The idea must demonstrate innovation, viability, and scalability. It cannot be an existing business or one that is already trading in the UK unless applying under the ‘same business’ or settlement categories.

Endorsing bodies will assess whether the business concept:

• Solves a genuine market need or creates a competitive advantage
• Is supported by a credible business plan with clear financial forecasts
• Has the potential for national and international market growth

Applicants must show how their business stands out from competitors and why it is likely to succeed. There is no fixed definition of innovation, but each endorsing body will apply sector-specific scrutiny in line with Home Office guidance.

Tips to strengthen your innovative business case include:

• Identify an unmet need in the market based on data, research, or personal experience
• Develop a solution that is distinct and not easily replicable
• Present clear proof of concept, early traction, or MVP development
• Build a thorough business plan with defined KPIs and financials
• Seek independent feedback from potential users, investors or mentors

 
2. Endorsement
 

Applicants must obtain a formal endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body. Endorsing bodies are Home Office-recognised organisations with expertise in assessing business potential and entrepreneurial capability.

The endorsement letter must confirm that your business meets the required criteria of innovation, viability, and scalability. It must also specify the type of endorsement:

• New business: For applicants launching a new venture in the UK
• Same business: For those extending their stay to continue the same business
• Settlement: For those applying for ILR after three years

Each endorsing body has its own application process, but typically applicants must:

• Submit a business plan and supporting evidence
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of their market and proposition
• Attend an assessment or pitch interview

Once your idea is approved, you will be issued with an endorsement letter, which must be submitted as part of your visa application. The endorsement remains valid for three months from the date of issue.

Tips for securing endorsement:

• Start early – the endorsement process can take several weeks or longer
• Choose an endorsing body aligned with your sector or business model
• Tailor your business plan to clearly address innovation, viability and scalability
• Demonstrate your commitment and relevant experience

 
3. English Language Requirement
 

Applicants must prove their English language ability to at least CEFR level B2 in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

This requirement can be met by:

• Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at level B2
• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country
• Holding a UK bachelor’s degree or higher (or equivalent taught in English)
• Having met the requirement in a previous successful immigration application

If relying on a qualification taught in English, applicants must provide a certificate from UK ENIC confirming its equivalency to a UK degree and that it was taught in English.

 
4. Financial Requirement
 

Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves without relying on public funds.

This includes showing that you held at least £1,270 in your personal bank account for a continuous 28-day period prior to the application date.

Key points:

• Funds must be in your name or your partner’s (if they are applying as a dependant)
• Evidence must be in line with Home Office financial document requirements
• Funds can be held overseas as long as documentation is compliant

These funds are separate from any investment or start-up capital required for your business plan.

 
5. Other General Requirements
 

Applicants must also meet the following general criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Not fall under general grounds for refusal under UK immigration rules
• Have a tuberculosis certificate if applying from a listed country

Meeting the full set of eligibility requirements is essential before progressing to the visa application stage.

 
Section C: Application Process
 

 
1. How to Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa
 

You must apply for the Innovator Founder visa online using the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) application portal.

The steps include:

• Complete the Innovator Founder visa application form online
• Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Book and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre (outside the UK) or UKVCAS service point (inside the UK)
• Upload your supporting documents or bring them to your appointment, as required

Applicants outside the UK should expect a standard decision timeframe of around 3 weeks from the date of biometric enrolment. In-country applicants switching or extending should expect a decision within 8 weeks. Processing times can vary depending on complexity and caseworker workload.

 
2. Supporting Documents
 

You must prepare a full set of supporting documents to accompany your online application. These typically include:

• Endorsement letter: Issued by an approved endorsing body within 3 months prior to application
• Evidence of English language ability: SELT certificate, UK degree certificate or UK ENIC confirmation
• Financial documents: Personal bank statements showing the required maintenance funds held for 28 consecutive days
• Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry
• Passport-sized photographs: Two recent photographs that meet UK photo guidelines
• Tuberculosis test certificate: Required if applying from a listed country

In addition to the above, you may be asked for additional evidence depending on your personal circumstances, such as marriage or birth certificates if applying with dependants, or translated documents if originals are not in English or Welsh.

 
3. Applying as a Team
 

While you may apply as part of a founding team, each applicant must be individually endorsed and submit a separate visa application. The business plan must clearly identify each team member’s role and contributions.

Each team member must:

• Have a defined, active role in the day-to-day running of the business
• Be endorsed individually by the same endorsing body
• Meet all personal eligibility requirements
• Have a strong academic or business background to support their application

For extensions or ILR under the same business or settlement route, team members must demonstrate they have:

• Made a meaningful and measurable contribution to the business
• Been continuously involved in growing and developing the business
• Maintained compliance with all visa conditions

Each team member must also meet the English language and financial requirements independently, even if applying for the same business.

 
Section D: Visa Conditions and Next Steps
 

 
1. Investment Requirements
 

There is no minimum investment threshold set by the UK Home Office under the Innovator Founder visa. However, applicants must demonstrate that they have access to sufficient funds to start and operate their proposed business in accordance with their endorsed business plan.

This means having adequate capital to meet the operational and start-up costs of your business, which may include:

• Business premises or co-working space
• Technology, stock or equipment
• Salaries for staff
• Marketing and promotional expenses
• Professional services or legal costs

There is no requirement for the funds to be personal. You may raise investment from third-party investors, angel networks, venture capital firms or grant schemes, provided you can evidence access to the funds and their application to your business.

Using your own savings or a combination of personal and external sources is also acceptable. Your endorsing body will assess whether your funding strategy is realistic and sufficient to deliver your business plan.

If you are unsure how much investment is needed, you should seek advice from an immigration adviser or business mentor with experience in UK start-ups.

 
2. Visa Extension
 

You may apply to extend your Innovator Founder visa for a further period of up to three years, and there is no limit on the number of extensions. To be eligible, you must:

• Hold a valid Innovator Founder visa
• Have a current endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body
• Continue to meet the English language and financial maintenance requirements
• Be actively involved in the same business originally endorsed or meet requirements for a new endorsement if changing business

You will also need to show that your business continues to meet the innovation, viability and scalability criteria, and that you have been meeting the mandatory check-ins with your endorsing body at 12 and 24 months.

Failure to attend mandatory contact points may result in your endorsement being withdrawn, affecting your ability to extend or settle.

 
3. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
 

The Innovator Founder route provides a direct path to UK settlement. You can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after spending three continuous years in the UK under this visa, provided you meet the following:

• You have a valid endorsement letter for ILR issued by an approved endorsing body
• Your business is active, trading and meets the criteria of innovation, viability and scalability
• You have been continuously resident in the UK for three years with no excessive absences
• You meet the English language requirement at CEFR B1 and pass the Life in the UK Test

For ILR purposes, your endorsing body must confirm that you have achieved at least two of the following outcomes:

• Significant customer base or market traction
• Job creation for local workers
• Investment from external sources
• Commercial revenue generation or profitability milestones
• Growth in UK or international markets

Your settlement application must be submitted before your existing visa expires. Once granted ILR, you may eventually apply for British citizenship after a further qualifying period, subject to naturalisation rules.

 
4. Processing Times and Avoiding Delays
 

UKVI processing times are typically:

• 3 weeks for out-of-country applicants
• 8 weeks for in-country applicants switching or extending

However, delays may occur if documents are missing, incomplete or if further checks are required. To minimise delays:

• Ensure your application is complete and accurate
• Submit all supporting documents as required
• Attend your biometric appointment as scheduled
• Respond promptly to any Home Office requests for further information

You can track your application status through the online visa system. If you experience delays beyond the standard timeframe, you may contact UKVI using their paid priority services or follow up via their online contact form.

 
FAQs
 

 
Can I switch to the Innovator Founder visa from another visa?
 

Yes, if you are already in the UK under a different visa category, such as a Skilled Worker or Start-up visa, you may be eligible to switch to the Innovator Founder visa. You must meet all the eligibility criteria, including securing a new endorsement and submitting your application before your current visa expires.

 
Can I work outside my business while on this visa?
 

No. Innovator Founder visa holders are only permitted to work for the business they have been endorsed to establish. Secondary employment is not allowed under this route.

 
Do I need to meet specific investment criteria?
 

No specific investment threshold is set, but you must demonstrate you have sufficient funds to start and operate your endorsed business. The endorsing body will assess the adequacy of your financial resources against your business plan.

 
What happens if my endorsement is withdrawn?
 

If your endorsement is withdrawn before a decision is made on your visa application, your application will be refused. If your visa has already been granted, it may be curtailed. You must secure a new endorsement within 60 calendar days or leave the UK.

 
Can I bring family members to the UK?
 

Yes, you can bring your partner and children under 18 as dependants. They must meet maintenance and eligibility requirements and apply separately using the correct dependant application process.

 
Can I apply for British citizenship after ILR?
 

Yes. Once you have held indefinite leave to remain (ILR) for 12 months, and meet the naturalisation criteria including residency and good character, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

 
Conclusion
 

The Innovator Founder visa offers a viable immigration pathway for experienced entrepreneurs with high-potential business ideas. However, it demands strong preparation, credible endorsement, and ongoing business commitment. The process is selective, and applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility and evidential requirements.

Employing professional advice at the endorsement and application stages can significantly enhance your chances of success. With the right preparation and compliance, the Innovator Founder route provides a clear route to long-term residence and potential settlement in the UK.

 
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