The Innovator Founder visa is built for serious entrepreneurs. The Home Office wants founders who are running businesses that are innovative, viable, and scalable — not just self-employed consultants.
Eligibility
- You're at least 18 years old.
- You have a genuine, original business idea.
- You hold an endorsement from an approved Endorsing Body.
- You meet the English language requirement (B2).
- You have enough personal savings to support yourself.
The Three Tests
Endorsing bodies assess every applicant against three criteria:
- Innovation: Your business must be genuinely original and address an unmet market need.
- Viability: You must have the skills, experience, and resources to make it work.
- Scalability: The business must show clear potential to grow, create jobs, and reach national or international markets.
Length and Renewal
The visa is granted for three years and can be extended. Endorsing bodies will check progress against agreed milestones at 12 and 24 months.
Fast-Track to ILR
You may be eligible for ILR after just three years if your business meets at least two of the published growth criteria — for example, significant turnover, jobs created, investment raised, or international expansion.
Family
You can bring your partner and dependent children. They can work and study with very few restrictions.
"This visa is meant for builders. Endorsing bodies want to see traction, not just slides."
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