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The Innovator Founder visa route is designed for experienced businesspeople looking to establish a business in the UK. Unlike other visa categories, this route does not require sponsorship from a licensed sponsor but does necessitate an endorsement from an approved endorsing body that will assess the innovation, viability, and scalability of the business idea. It's aimed at those who can demonstrate relevant experience and a genuine intention to develop their business idea in the UK. This visa also offers a pathway to settlement, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs planning to relocate to the UK permanently.
Other Routes
The Innovator Founder visa route is designed for experienced businesspeople looking to establish a business in the UK. Unlike other visa categories, this route does not require sponsorship from a licensed sponsor but does necessitate an endorsement from an approved endorsing body that will assess the innovation, viability, and scalability of the business idea. It's aimed at those who can demonstrate relevant experience and a genuine intention to develop their business idea in the UK. This visa also offers a pathway to settlement, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs planning to relocate to the UK permanently.
Applicants must have their business or business idea endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body. This endorsement confirms the business is innovative, viable, and scalable. The endorsing body will assess the business plan and provide a letter of endorsement. This requirement ensures that the business has potential for growth and contributes to the UK economy.
Applicants need at least ÂŖ50,000 in investment funds if setting up a new business. This requirement is waived if the business is already established and has been endorsed for an earlier visa. The funds must be held in a regulated financial institution and be disposable in the UK.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. This ensures that the applicant is legally able to enter into contracts and manage a business in the UK.
The business must demonstrate potential for growth and scalability. This includes having a clear target market, a competitive advantage, and a plan for future expansion. The business should contribute to the UK economy by creating jobs or generating revenue.
Applicants must provide a valid passport or travel document as proof of identity and nationality. The document should be valid for the entire duration of the visa application process and have at least one blank page for the visa.
An endorsement letter from a UK endorsing body is required to prove that the business idea has been approved. The letter must be issued within three months before the date of the visa application.
Applicants must meet the English language requirement by passing an approved English language test at CEFR Level B2 or holding a degree taught in English. This ensures the applicant can effectively communicate and conduct business in the UK.
Applicants must provide evidence of having at least ÂŖ50,000 in investment funds if establishing a new business. The funds must be available and disposable in the UK and held in a regulated financial institution.
Applicants must demonstrate they have enough personal savings to support themselves in the UK. This typically means having at least ÂŖ1,270 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days before applying.
Applicants must prove their English language ability at CEFR Level B2. This can be done by passing an approved English language test or having a degree taught in English. This ensures effective communication and business operations in the UK.
Applicants from certain countries must provide a valid tuberculosis (TB) test certificate. The test must be conducted at an approved clinic and is required if the applicant has been residing in a listed country for more than six months.
Applicants must provide a criminal record certificate from any country they have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. This ensures the applicant is of good character and poses no threat to the UK.
Applicants must provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, as part of the application process. This is used to issue a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival in the UK.
Applicants must submit a detailed business plan outlining the business idea, target market, competitive advantage, and financial projections. The plan should demonstrate the business's potential for innovation, viability, and scalability.
Disclaimer: We are not immigration advisors. For professional immigration advice, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or OISC-registered advisor.
8-12 weeks weeks