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Business / Innovator Visa

Launch or grow an innovative business in the UK. Expert guidance on the Innovator Founder and business visa routes.

Processing
~3 months
Duration
3 years
OGS Rate
98%

Visa Overview

The UK Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced businesspersons who want to set up or run an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK. Applicants must have their business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body before applying to the Home Office.

This is one of the most complex UK visa routes, requiring a compelling business plan, endorsement assessment and Home Office approval. Our advisors work closely with you to prepare a strong business case and guide you through the endorsement and application processes.

Eligibility Requirements

Business Endorsement

Must obtain endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body before applying.

Innovative Business Idea

Your business must be genuinely innovative, viable, scalable and different from existing UK businesses.

English Language (B2+)

Must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR Level B2 or above.

Maintenance Funds

Must have at least £1,270 in personal savings held for 28+ consecutive days.

No Minimum Investment Required

Unlike the old Tier 1 Investor route, there is no minimum investment threshold for this visa.

Active Involvement

Must be actively involved in day-to-day management of the business.

Required Documents

Endorsement Letter

From an approved UK endorsing body confirming support for your business idea.

Business Plan

Detailed plan covering your idea, market analysis, financials and growth strategy.

Valid Passport

Must be valid throughout your proposed stay in the UK.

English Language Certificate

IELTS Academic, TOEFL or approved equivalent at B2 or above.

Bank Statements (maintenance)

Showing £1,270 or more held for at least 28 consecutive days.

Evidence of Business Experience

CV, references, previous business records or relevant experience.

Key Benefits

Establish an innovative UK business
Bring partner and children as dependants
Apply for ILR after 3 years (with endorsement)
No cap on the number of visas granted
Switch from other visa categories
Access to UK's world-class business ecosystem

Frequently Asked Questions

An endorsing body is a UK organisation approved by the Home Office to assess Innovator Founder visa applications. They evaluate whether your business idea meets the innovation, viability and scalability criteria.

There is no fixed investment requirement. However, you must demonstrate that your business is financially viable and have sufficient personal maintenance funds.

No — the Innovator Founder Visa is for running your own business. Working as an employee is not permitted unless it is for your own company.

After 3 years, you can apply for ILR if your business has met the milestones agreed with your endorsing body and you have continuously resided in the UK.
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