Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for individuals looking to start or run an innovative business in the UK. This visa is ideal for experienced entrepreneurs who want to create businesses that are unique and have potential for growth. It is suitable for those who already have a business idea that has been approved by an endorsing body or for those who have started an innovative business. Unlike some other visa categories, you are not required to have a specific amount of investment funds to apply.
The visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 3 years, and it can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This visa replaces the Innovator Visa and Start-Up Visa, offering more flexibility for founders of businesses at any stage of development.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official UK government guidance here.
1. What is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa is a UK visa designed for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish or manage an innovative business in the UK. The business must be endorsed by an authorised body and show the potential to grow or significantly contribute to the UK economy. The visa is for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extending or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after this period.
2. What are the eligibility criteria for the Innovator Founder Visa?
To be eligible for the Innovator Founder Visa, you must:
- be 18 years or older.
- have an innovative business idea, that is approved by an endorsing body, to set up or run in the UK
- meet the English language requirement (CEFR Level B2 or higher).
- be able to support yourself financially during your stay in the UK.
3. What is an endorsing body for the Innovator Founder Visa?
An endorsing body is an organisation that is authorised by the UK government to assess and approve business ideas for the Innovator Founder Visa. The endorsing body must believe that your business idea is:
- New- you cannot join an existing business
- Innovative – different from anything currently on the market.
- Viable – capable of future growth and success.
- Scalable – has the potential to create jobs and contribute to the UK economy.
The endorsing body will continue to monitor your progress to ensure that the business is developing as expected.
4. Do I need a certain amount of investment funds to apply?
Unlike previous visa routes, the Innovator Founder Visa does not require a specific minimum amount of investment funds. However, you still need to show that you can support yourself financially and develop your business.
5. Can I bring my family to the UK on an Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes, you can bring your dependants (spouse/partner and children under 18) with you to the UK on an Innovator Founder Visa. Your dependants will be able to live and work in the UK while you develop your business.
6. What are the English language requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa?
You must meet the English language requirement by:
- Passing an approved English test at CEFR Level B2 or higher, or
- Having an academic qualification taught in English, such as a degree from an English-speaking country.
7. How long can I stay in the UK on an Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa is initially valid for up to 3 years. After this period, you can apply to extend your visa for another 3 years or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the requirements.
8. Can I switch to an Innovator Founder Visa from another UK visa?
Yes, you can switch to the Innovator Founder Visa if you are already in the UK on a different visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. You must apply before your current visa expires.
9. How do I apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?
To apply for the Innovator Founder Visa, you need to:
- Get your business idea endorsed by an authorised endorsing body.
- Prepare your documents, including proof of English language proficiency and financial stability.
- Complete the online application form and pay the application fee.
- Attend a biometric appointment to submit your fingerprints and photo.
10. Can I settle permanently in the UK with an Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes, after 5 years of living in the UK on an Innovator Founder Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you have met the following conditions:
- You have been actively running your endorsed business.
- You have maintained your endorsement.
- You meet the continuous residence requirement (not spending more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period).
11. How much does the Innovator Founder visa cost?
The fee is £1,191 if you apply from outside the UK, and £1,486 if inside the UK. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1035 per year of your stay in the UK.
12. How can Kaya Legal assist with your Innovator Founder Visa application?
At Kaya Legal, we provide expert immigration advice and assistance for entrepreneurs applying for the Innovator Founder Visa. Our services include:
- Assessing your eligibility and ensuring your business idea meets the endorsement criteria.
- Helping you find the right endorsing body and preparing your business plan for endorsement.
- Guiding you through the application process, ensuring you meet the English language, financial, and business requirements.
- Providing support in preparing and submitting a strong visa application to avoid delays or refusals.
- Offering advice on extending your visa or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
We specialise in helping entrepreneurs with complex visa applications, ensuring your business is presented in the best possible way for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) approval.