Innovator Founder Visa UK

Looking to build a fresh, forward-thinking business in the UK? The Innovator Founder Visa UK could be the opportunity you’ve been searching for. Whether you’re an overseas entrepreneur, a tech founder, or someone switching from the Start-up or Tier 1 visa, this visa offers a clear route to live, work and grow in Britain.

In this guide, we’ll talk through how the visa works, what you need to apply, and how to get settled long-term. 

What Is the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa is for non-UK nationals who want to set up a genuine and innovative business on UK soil. It replaced older routes like the Tier 1 Entrepreneur and Start-up Visas, with a sharper focus on business originality and long-term growth.

Here’s what makes it different:

• You don’t need a set amount of investment to apply
• Your business must be innovative, viable and scalable
• You need an endorsement from an official UK body
• You can live in the UK and apply for settlement after three years

If your idea is strong and you’re ready to bring it to life in the UK, this visa is one of the most straightforward ways to make it happen.

Who Can Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?

This visa is open to anyone aged 18 or over from outside the UK who’s serious about launching a business here.

You’ll need to:

• Have a new and original business idea that hasn’t been done before
• Get an endorsement from a Home Office approved body
• Meet the B2 English level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening
• Show that you have enough funds to support yourself without public money
• Apply either from inside the UK (if eligible) or from abroad

You don’t need to be a millionaire or have a huge team behind you – what matters most is your idea and your commitment to making it work.

Innovator Founder Visa Requirements (2025)

To qualify for this visa, your application needs to tick several boxes. Let’s break them down:

Business Criteria

Your business must be:

• Innovative: The idea should be fresh, creative, and not already widely available in the market
• Viable: You should be able to realistically build and run the business
• Scalable: The business should have room to grow, hire people, and make an impact

You’ll need to explain your idea clearly and show how it fits these three categories. This will form the heart of your application.

Endorsement Letter

You’ll need an official letter from a UK endorsing body, confirming that your business meets the required criteria.

The endorsement process includes:

• A full review of your business plan
• Checkpoints at 12 and 24 months to assess your progress
• Continued support and guidance from your endorsing body as you grow

This step is crucial, so make sure your plan is clear, well-researched, and honest.

English Language Requirement

You must show that you can communicate in English to at least B2 level. This includes:

• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking
• Listening

If you’re from a country where English is the main language, or you hold a recognised qualification, you may not need to sit a test.

How to Apply for an Innovator Founder Visa

Applying might sound overwhelming, but if you take it one step at a time, it becomes much easier.

Application Process

• Create a business plan that meets the innovation, viability and scalability criteria
• Find an endorsing body and secure your endorsement letter
• Apply online through the official UKVI website
• Pay the fees (visa application and immigration health surcharge)
• Attend your biometric appointment
• Wait for your decision

Most applications from outside the UK are processed within three weeks.

 

Documents You’ll Need

Have these ready to go:

• Valid passport
• Endorsement letter from an authorised body
• Proof of financial funds
• Evidence of English language level
• Your business plan (with supporting documents if needed)

Keeping your paperwork in order will save time and reduce stress during the process.

Visa Fees and Processing Times

Here’s what to expect when it comes to costs and timeframes:

• Application Fee: £1,274 (outside the UK) or £1,590 (inside the UK)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
• Processing Time: Around 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK

Dependants will also need to pay the same visa fees and surcharge.

What You Can and Can’t Do on This Visa

It’s important to know the dos and don’ts:

You Can:

• Launch and run your own business
• Work full-time for that business
• Bring your partner and children with you

You Can’t:

• Work for another company outside of your business
• Claim public funds or government benefits

You’ll need to focus on building your own company – which is what this visa is all about.

Can You Settle in the UK on This Visa?

Yes, and that’s one of the biggest advantages of this route.

You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years, as long as:

• You’re still working on your endorsed business
• Your endorsing body confirms that your business is progressing well
• You meet the other general ILR criteria (like absence limits and language requirements)

Once you’ve held ILR for 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship.

Innovator Founder Visa vs Old Routes

This visa was created to replace the older Tier 1 Entrepreneur and Start-up visas. Here’s how they compare:

Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa

• Required a £200,000 investment
• Didn’t focus much on innovation
• Closed to new applicants

The Innovator Founder route has no investment minimum and a sharper focus on real, original ideas.

Start-up Visa

• Was only valid for 2 years
• Didn’t lead to ILR
• Also closed to new applicants

The new visa provides a direct path to settlement and long-term business growth.

Common Reasons for Refusal

No one wants a refusal, but knowing the common issues can help you avoid them:

• A business idea that’s not original or lacks potential
• Failing to get a valid endorsement
• Missing documents or unclear financial proof
• Not meeting the English language level

Make sure every part of your application is accurate, honest, and well supported.

FAQs – Innovator Founder Visa UK

Do I need investment money for an Innovator Founder Visa?

No, there’s no set investment amount. You just need to show your business idea is strong and that you can support yourself financially.

How do I get endorsed for the Innovator Visa?

You need to approach a Home Office-approved endorsing body. They’ll review your business plan and decide if it meets the visa criteria.

Can I bring my family with me on this visa?

Yes, your spouse or partner and children under 18 can apply to join you as dependants.

How long does it take to get a decision?

If applying from outside the UK, it usually takes around three weeks once your biometrics are done.

Can I get ILR from the Innovator Founder Visa?

Yes, if you meet all the conditions, you can apply for settlement after three years.

The Innovator Founder Visa UK is perfect for driven business minds who want to make a real impact in Britain. It gives you a chance to build something meaningful, bring your family, and eventually call the UK your permanent home.

With no minimum investment and a clear path to settlement, this visa is a practical choice for those with ambition and a strong idea.

Speak to an Immigration Adviser Today

Not sure where to begin? 

Solicitors in Manchester are here to help you every step of the way.

Call us now on 0161 464 4140 or book an appointment to speak with a immigration adviser. We’ll walk you through the process, help you prepare a strong business case, and support your application from start to finish.