Overview of the Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa allows individuals to set up and run an innovative business in the UK. To be eligible, your business idea must be new, innovative, viable, and scalable. Additionally, your business or business idea must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Innovator Founder visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Your business idea must be new and not already trading.
- Your business idea must be innovative and different from anything else on the market.
- Your business idea must be viable with potential for growth.
- Your business idea must be scalable, with evidence of planning that includes creating jobs and growing into national and international markets.
You will need to obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body to confirm that your business idea meets these requirements.
Knowledge of English
You must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English. You will usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply for the visa.
Application Process
You must apply for the Innovator Founder visa online. The application process depends on whether you are outside the UK, inside the UK extending your current visa, or inside the UK switching from a different visa.
Your partner and children can apply to join you or stay in the UK as your dependants if they are eligible.
Fees
The fees for the Innovator Founder visa depend on where you apply from:
- It costs £1,357 per person if you apply outside the UK.
- It costs £1,693 per person if you apply to extend or switch your visa in the UK.
You will also need to pay £1,000 to obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. If your visa application is successful, you will need to pay £500 each time you meet with your endorsing body, which is required at least twice during your stay in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join an existing business with the Innovator Founder visa?
No, the Innovator Founder visa is specifically for individuals who want to set up and run a new, innovative business in the UK. You cannot join an existing business with this visa.
How long can I stay in the UK with the Innovator Founder visa?
You can stay in the UK for 3 years if you either come to the UK on an Innovator Founder visa or switch to this visa from another visa while in the UK. You will need to meet with your endorsing body after 12 months and 24 months to show progress with your business. If you want to stay longer, you must re-apply with a new endorsement before your current visa expires.
Can I extend my Innovator Founder visa?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay for another 3 years when your visa is due to expire. There is no limit on the number of times you can extend.
Can I apply for settlement with the Innovator Founder visa?
You may be able to apply for settlement once you have been in the UK for 3 years.
How long does it take to get a decision on my visa application?
You will usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks if you are outside the UK, or within 8 weeks if you are inside the UK. You may be able to pay for a faster decision.
What endorsing bodies can issue endorsements for the Innovator Founder visa?
The following organisations can issue endorsements for Innovator Founder visas: UK Endorsing Services, Innovator International, and The Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP). Additionally, there are Legacy Innovator Endorsing Bodies that can continue maintaining and monitoring their existing endorsed migrants.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about the Innovator Founder visa and is not individual legal advice. For specific advice, please consult with a qualified immigration advisor. For more information, visit gov.uk.