UK Innovator Founder Visa: The Complete Guide

It allows entrepreneurs to establish and run an innovative business in the UK. Unlike the old route, there is no fixed minimum investment — the focus is on the quality and credibility of your business idea and your ability to deliver it.

Your business must be assessed against three criteria:

• Innovative — a genuine, original business idea that meets a market need
• Viable — realistic and achievable with your skills and resources
• Scalable — with potential for growth and job creation

You'll also need English at B1 and to meet maintenance requirements.

You must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body, which assesses your business plan and continues to check on your progress through contact points. A strong, credible business plan is essential — we help you prepare for endorsement.

You can be the founder of one or more businesses, take employment in your own business, and the route allows flexibility to grow. Endorsing bodies monitor progress at set checkpoints.

Your partner and children under 18 can join you as dependants, with the right to work and study in the UK.

Innovator Founders can often apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after just 3 years, where they meet the business and residence criteria, with British citizenship available later.