United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · entrepreneur
Innovator Founder visa
Endorsement-based visa for founders launching an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK.
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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.
Processing time
Endorsement process varies by body; visa typically 3 weeks after endorsement.
See source window: 3 weeks – 8 weeks →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.
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
Step 1
Develop and validate the business concept
Most successful applicants spend months refining the business case and financial model before approaching an endorsing body.
Step 2
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.
Step 3
Secure endorsement
Receive the endorsement letter confirming the innovation, viability and scalability tests are met.
Step 4
Submit visa application
File the visa application within 3 months of endorsement and pay fees.
Step 5
Launch and attend contact-point meetings
Attend endorsement body contact-point meetings at 12 and 24 months and provide evidence of progress.
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Frequently asked questions
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.
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