United Kingdom

Duration

3 Years

Innovator Founder Visa UK

About

The Innovator Founder Visa is available to new and seasoned business owners who want to launch a firm in the UK. The only prerequisite for candidates is that they possess an original, feasible, and scaleable business idea that is backed by a well-received business plan. 

The Innovator Founder Visa superseded the Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) Visa in March 2019, formerly known as the "Innovator Visa". The Innovator Founder Visa will no longer require a minimum investment of £50,000 GBP as of April 13, 2023. 

Eligibility

An Innovator Founder visa for innovators and entrepreneurs is available if:

  • You want to start and operate an innovative business in the UK, your product or service must be unique compared to what is currently available.
  • An authorised authority, often known as an endorsing body, has given its endorsement to your company or your business idea.
  • You must fulfil the standards for English language proficiency.

Documents

You must provide an "endorsement letter" with your application to demonstrate that an endorsing body has reviewed your firm or business plan. You should also provide the following;

  • A valid passport or other documents proving identity and nationality.
  • Bank records to demonstrate that, before applying, you had at least GBP 1,270 in savings in your account for 28 days.
  • Evidence that you can speak English fluently.
  • The results of your tuberculosis test, if you are from a nation where you must take it.

Process

Once you have all the required requirements in order, you may go on with the visa application. The application process can be online, or you may visit the nearest embassy while applying for this visa.

Visa Processing Time
After filing your application online, proving your identity, and providing the required papers, you will frequently hear back on your visa within three weeks if you are outside of the UK. It will take eight weeks if you live in the UK.

How to Apply
The steps to apply for the Innovator Founder Visa in the UK are as follows:

  • Meet the eligibility criteria for the Innovator Founder Visa.
  • Fill in the UK Visas and Immigration website's online application form.
  • Attend a meeting with a Home Office representative, if necessary, to discuss your company idea and objectives.
  • Wait for UK Visas and Immigration to decide on your visa application.

Duration & Fees

Duration
An innovation founder visa with a three-year validity period has the potential to directly lead to indefinite leave to remain in the UK. A spouse and any minor children may accompany applicants for the Innovator Founder Visa on their trip to the UK.

Fees
An Innovator Founder Visa now costs GBP 1,036 to apply for from outside the UK or GBP 1,292 to switch into the category from within the UK. Additionally, candidates for the Innovator Founder Visa must pay an endorsement fee of GBP 1,000 to the appropriate endorsing organisation.

 

FAQS

How long can my Innovator Founder Visa be extended?
Your Innovator Founder Visa is extendable for an additional three years.

How can I obtain an endorsement, and what is the endorsing body?
The endorsing body is a business proposal evaluation and endorsement agency recognised by the UK government. Before applying for a visa, you must approach an endorsing organisation, present your business plan, and obtain their support.

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