UK Innovator Founder Visa

The UK Innovator Founder Visa: Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The UK Innovator Founder Visa, introduced in April 2019, aims to attract talented entrepreneurs and drive innovation within the United Kingdom. This visa category empowers individuals with groundbreaking business ideas to establish and manage their ventures in the country.

Benefits of UK Innovator Visa:

• Opportunity to establish and manage your innovative business in the UK.
• Access to a dynamic market and potential for growth.
• Pathway to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after three years.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Innovative Business Idea: Your business idea must be novel and distinct from existing ventures. It should demonstrate potential for growth and scalability.
2. Endorsement: An approved endorsing body must assess and endorse your business idea. They evaluate its viability, originality, and growth prospects.
3. Investment Funds: While the initial requirement of £50,000 in investment funds has been waived in recent changes, having access to these funds remains essential for settlement eligibility after three years.
4. English Language Proficiency: You must be proficient in English, which you’ll need to prove during the application process.

Visa Duration:

• You can stay in the UK for three years initially.
• After 12 and 24 months, you’ll meet with your endorsing body to demonstrate progress in your business.
• If your endorsement is withdrawn, your visa may be shortened.
• To stay longer, reapply with a new endorsement before your current visa expires.

Application Process:

• Apply online based on your location (inside or outside the UK).
• Your partner and children can also apply as dependents if eligible.

Step-by-Step Process:

• Apply online based on your location (inside or outside the UK).
• Meet with your endorsing body after 12 and 24 months to demonstrate progress.
• Reapply with a new endorsement before your current visa expires to stay longer.

Path to Settlement:

• After three years, you may apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) if you meet the criteria.
• Requirements include residing in the UK for three years, not exceeding 180 days outside the country in any year, gaining a new endorsement, and passing the Life in the UK Test.