UK Innovator Founder Visa

Step 1: Secure Endorsement

• Prepare a detailed business plan.
• Apply to an approved endorsing body.
• If approved, receive a Letter of Endorsement.

Step 2: Submit Your Visa Application

• Apply through the official UK government website.
• Upload required documents and financial proof.
• Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Step 3: Verify Your Identity

• If eligible, use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
• Otherwise, book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Step 4: Await a Decision

• Processing time: 3 weeks (outside the UK) or 8 weeks (inside the UK).
• If approved, you will receive a digital status or a visa vignette in your passport.

Once granted, you can move to the UK and start your business immediately.

UK Innovator Founder Visa Fees and Costs 

Visa Application Fee:

• £1,274 (if applying from outside the UK).
• £1,590 (if applying from inside the UK).

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

• £1,035 per year (Total: £3,105 for 3 years).

Total Expected Cost:

• £4,296 to £4,591 (visa fee + IHS).

How to Qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

You can apply for ILR after 3 years if you meet at least two of the following criteria:

• Your business has created at least 10 full-time jobs for UK residents.
• Your business has generated at least £1 million in revenue.
• Your business has attracted at least £50,000 in investment.
• Your business has shown substantial market growth (e.g., customer base has doubled).

After 12 months on ILR, you may apply for British citizenship.

The UK Innovator Founder Visa offers a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs, but securing an endorsement can be highly competitive. The bar for approval is set high, with endorsing bodies requiring clear evidence of an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea. If you face challenges meeting these criteria, there are alternative routes to establish or expand your business in the UK.

UK Self-Sponsorship Visa (For New Businesses in the UK)

The UK Self-Sponsorship route allows entrepreneurs to start a business in the UK and sponsor themselves for a Skilled Worker Visa. Unlike the Innovator Founder Visa, it:

• Does not require endorsement from an endorsing body.
• Does not require proof of business innovation.
• Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years.

This option is viable for those who want greater control over their business and visa status.

UK Expansion Worker Visa (For Established Businesses Expanding to the UK)

If you already own or work for a business trading outside the UK, the UK Expansion Worker Visa allows you to set up a UK branch or subsidiary. This visa:

• Requires your overseas business to have been trading for at least 3 years.
• Allows up to 5 senior employees to enter the UK to expand the business.
• Can switch into a Skilled Worker Visa route for long-term residency.

This visa can be a route to UK market entry for businesses already operating successfully outside the UK.

Which Option is Right for You?

• If you're an entrepreneur without an existing overseas business, consider Self-Sponsorship.
• The Expansion Worker Visa may be a better fit if you own a trading business outside the UK.
• If your business is truly innovative, scalable, and meets endorsement criteria, the Innovator Founder Visa remains a strong option.

Our team can guide you through your options if you're unsure which route is best.