Chinese applicants · United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Innovator Founder visa for Chinese citizens
Endorsement-based visa for founders launching an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK.
- Processing time
- Endorsement process varies by body; visa typically 3 weeks after endorsement.
- Government fees
- Endorsement body fees (varies by body) plus visa application fee and IHS £1,035/year.
- Typical duration
- 3 years per grant; extendable. Leads to settlement after 3 years.
- Sponsor required
- No
- Leads to settlement
- Yes
Bilateral context
No nationality-specific treaty frameworks apply to this combination.
Consular processing: Applicable consular post in origin country
Tourist entry vs. this route
Chinese nationals require a visa for any entry into United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Innovator Founder visa is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Visa overview
The Innovator Founder visa replaced the Start-up and Innovator visas in April 2023. It requires endorsement from a Home Office–approved body based on a business that is innovative, viable and scalable. Unlike its predecessor, there is no minimum investment threshold — but the endorsement bar has risen.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Endorsement from an approved body confirming the business is innovative, viable and scalable.
- ✓English language at CEFR B2.
- ✓Financial requirement of £1,270 held for 28 days (unless exempt).
Common blockers
- !Business lacks genuine novelty — a copy of an existing UK or foreign business rarely meets the innovation criterion.
- !Plan does not show realistic path to market and growth.
Typical evidence
- ·Detailed business plan tailored to endorsement body's criteria.
- ·Evidence of any funding, team, or traction to date.
- ·Endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body.
Application pathway
Develop and validate the business concept
Most successful applicants spend months refining the business case and financial model before approaching an endorsing body.
Engage an approved endorsing body
Apply to one of the Home Office–approved endorsing bodies. Each has its own application process, fees, and review cadence.
Secure endorsement
Receive the endorsement letter confirming the innovation, viability and scalability tests are met.
Submit visa application
File the visa application within 3 months of endorsement and pay fees.
Launch and attend contact-point meetings
Attend endorsement body contact-point meetings at 12 and 24 months and provide evidence of progress.
Other United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland routes covered for Chinese applicants
Skilled Worker visa
Work visa for non-UK workers with a job offer from a Home Office–licensed sponsor in an eligible occupation.
Global Talent visa
Unsponsored visa for leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology.
Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of eligible UK higher education institutions.
High Potential Individual visa
Unsponsored work visa for graduates of a time-limited list of top global universities.
Student visa
Study visa for international students enrolled with a licensed Student sponsor at eligible UK institutions.
Comparable routes in other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Are Chinese citizens eligible for the Innovator Founder visa?+
Eligibility for the Innovator Founder visa is set by UK Home Office and is not nationality-restricted. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Chinese applicants typically file the Innovator Founder visa?+
Applicable consular post in origin country. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by UK Home Office — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Chinese applicants need a tourist visa for United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland as well?+
Chinese nationals require a visa for any entry into United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Innovator Founder visa is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Is there a minimum investment for the Innovator Founder visa?+
No. Unlike the previous Innovator visa, there is no £50,000 minimum investment threshold. However, applicants still need to demonstrate realistic financial planning and access to funds appropriate to the business plan.
Can two founders apply together?+
Yes. Joint founders can apply under the same business provided each meets the eligibility criteria and each is individually endorsed.