The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to establish and operate an innovative business in the United Kingdom. To be eligible, your business idea must be original, feasible, and scalable, and it must be endorsed by a recognized body. This visa offers a pathway for forward-thinking business minds to contribute to the UK economy and potentially settle in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Business Idea Requirements:

• – New: The business must be a new venture. You cannot join an existing trading business.

• – Innovative: Your business idea must be original and different from any existing ventures on the market.

• – Viable: The business must have real potential for growth and success.

• – Scalable: There must be evidence of planning for job creation and market expansion both in the UK and globally.

• Endorsement: You must secure an endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body. This confirms the viability, innovation, and scalability of your business idea.

• Knowledge of English: You must demonstrate proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking, and understanding). This is typically proven by passing a secure English language test (SELT) at level B2 or above, or through an academic qualification taught in English.

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

• Financial Requirement: You need to show that you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying. This proves your ability to support yourself without relying on public funds.

Application Process

The application must be submitted online and the process depends on your current location:

• If you are outside the UK: Apply online from abroad to enter the UK on this visa.

• If you are in the UK: You can apply to switch to this visa from another visa category, or extend your current Innovator Founder Visa.

Duration and Extensions

• The visa allows you to stay in the UK for 3 years initially.

• You can apply to extend your stay for another 3 years. There is no limit on the number of extensions.

• After 3 continuous years in the UK under this visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement).

Application Fees

• The application fee is £1,191 per applicant when applying from outside the UK.

• Additional costs may apply for biometric enrolment and healthcare surcharge.

Dependants

Your partner and children can apply to join you or remain in the UK as your dependants, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. They must also apply online and may need to provide proof of relationship and financial support.