The Innovator Founder visa is for entrepreneurs who want to set up and run a business in the UK. It replaced the old Innovator visa and Start-up visa in 2023.
The key requirement is that your business idea must be innovative, viable, and scalable. This means it should be original, capable of growth, and create long-term value for the UK economy.
If approved, you can live in the UK, build your business, and potentially settle permanently after three years.
You may qualify if you:
Are at least 18 years old.
Have a new business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable.
Get your business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body (organizations appointed by the UK government).
Can prove you will play an active role in running the business.
Meet the English language requirement.
Have enough money to support yourself while in the UK.
Unlike the old Innovator visa, there is no minimum investment requirement (previously £50,000). However, you must show a strong and realistic plan for your business.
Path to settlement: You may be eligible for permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 3 years.
No set investment threshold: Focus is on your idea and business plan, not just money.
Work flexibility: You can work for your own business and do some other skilled work to support yourself.
Bring family members: Your spouse/partner and children under 18 can come with you as dependents.
International reputation: Running a business in the UK can help with global expansion and networking.
Ali, from Pakistan, develops a fintech app that uses AI to improve access to banking for small businesses. His idea is endorsed, and he gets the Innovator Founder visa. After three years of growing his company in London, he applies for permanent residency.
Sofia, from Argentina, creates a sustainable fashion business with a unique recycling model. She gets her idea endorsed and builds her startup in Manchester while her husband and child join her in the UK.
No. The old minimum investment rule has been removed. What matters is having a credible and scalable business plan.
An endorsing body approved by the UK government will assess and endorse your business idea.
Up to 3 years initially, with the possibility to extend or apply for settlement.
Yes, you can do some other skilled work to support yourself, but the main focus must remain on developing your business.
Yes, after 3 years you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the requirements.