Innovator Founder Visa

The Innovator Founder Visa is for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish or develop an innovative business in the UK. It replaces the former Innovator and Start-up visas, providing a flexible route for founders with viable and scalable business ideas endorsed by a recognised UK body.

Key Features

• No minimum investment requirement (unlike the old Innovator visa).
• Applicants must have an endorsed innovative, viable, and scalable business idea.
• Stay in the UK for up to 3 years, with eligibility to apply for settlement (ILR).
• Freedom to work full-time on your business or in other skilled roles related to your venture.
• Bring dependants (partner and children) to the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be at least 18 years old with a genuine and original business idea.
• Receive an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
• Meet English language proficiency (CEFR Level B2 or above).
• Show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself while in the UK.
• Meet standard health and character requirements.

Application Process

• Obtain an endorsement letter from a Home Office–approved endorsing body.
• Apply online and submit supporting documents.
• Provide biometric information and pay the visa fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Receive a decision within approximately 3 to 8 weeks.

The Innovator Founder Visa offers a pathway for global entrepreneurs to build and scale innovative businesses in the UK’s thriving market. Visa2Migrate provides end-to-end guidance — from endorsement support to documentation and visa filing.