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Innovator Visa
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- Who offers the CHEAPEST program available.
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- What you need to qualify?
In This Article, You Will Discover:
- The Innovator Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs looking to establish or run a business in a new country, requiring a viable, innovative, and scalable business idea endorsed by an approved body.
- Applicants must demonstrate they have the necessary skills and commitment to develop their business, including meeting investment requirements typically around £50,000.
- Successful holders may eventually qualify for permanent residency and citizenship, provided they meet certain criteria related to their business's success and economic contribution.
- The application process involves submitting a detailed business plan, securing an endorsement from a recognized endorsing body, and passing character, criminality, and financial checks.
- Holders have access to business development resources, networking opportunities, and specific programs designed to support startups and entrepreneurs in the country.
What is the Innovator Visa?
The Innovator Visa is a specialist visa route, designed for entrepreneurs who want to set up and lead a business in the UK. Applicants must present a business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable—backed by an endorsement from a government-approved body. This route replaces previous entrepreneur visas, streamlining the journey for founders aiming to make substantial market impact.
Explore further options for global entrepreneurs at our innovator visa guide.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Secure an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body, affirming that the business is innovative, viable, and scalable.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency at least at CEFR Level B2 (IELTS 5.5 in all skills).
- Show at least £1,270 held in savings for 28 consecutive days prior to application, with additional funds for each dependent (£285 for a partner, £315 for the first child, £200 per additional child).
- Hold an endorsement letter issued within 3 months before your visa application.
The business plan must be original, fulfill a market need or create a competitive advantage, and the applicant must play a significant day-to-day management role in the venture.
For more, see our entrepreneur visa requirements.
Step-By-Step Application Process
- Develop a Business Plan
Draft a comprehensive business plan that demonstrates originality, sustainability, scalability, and significant market impact. - Obtain Endorsement
Submit your business plan to an approved endorsing body. These assess innovation, viability, and scalability and monitor business progress post-approval. - Application Submission
File an online application with the Home Office, attaching your endorsement letter, identity documents, proof of savings, and English proficiency documentation. - Biometrics Appointment
Attend a biometric (fingerprints and photo) appointment as part of the application. - Decision and Visa Issuance
Decisions are often given within 3 weeks for applications outside the UK, or up to 8 weeks within the UK. Priority services are available. - Post-Arrival Monitoring
Participate in required check-point meetings with your endorsing body to ensure compliance and continued business progress.
Required Documents Checklist
- Valid passport or proof of identity and nationality.
- Endorsement letter from an approved body issued within the past 3 months.
- Evidence of personal savings (bank statements for 28 days prior to application).
- Proof of English language ability.
- Tuberculosis test results (if required by country of origin).
- Certified translations for non-English/Welsh documents.
- Proof of relationship and funds for any dependents.
See a more detailed list at our application documents portal.
Innovator Visa Benefits and Drawbacks
Key Benefits
- Fast-Track to Settlement: Three years' residency can lead directly to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) if all criteria are met.
- No Minimum Investment Since 2023: Accessibility widened for entrepreneurs with strong ideas, not just significant funds.
- Family Inclusion: Spouses and children can accompany the main applicant on dependent visas with full residency benefits.
- Flexibility: Paid employment alongside the business is permitted under the current Innovator Founder route.
Potential Drawbacks
- Stringent Endorsement Process: Endorsing bodies rigorously assess innovation, viability, scalability, and ongoing business performance.
- Complex Documentation: Applications must include detailed plans and regular progress reporting.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Biannual meetings and milestone checks are required to retain both endorsement and visa status.
- Potential for Rejection: Applications may be rejected due to underdeveloped plans, lack of documentation, or insufficient business impact.
Compare additional options at entrepreneur visa comparison.
Innovator Visa vs. Other Entrepreneur Visas
| Feature | Innovator Founder Visa | Start-up Visa | Investor Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Endorsement | Required | Required | Not required |
| Investment Requirement | None (from 2023) | None | £2 Million+ |
| Route to ILR | 3 years | No direct route | 5 years |
| Duration | 3 years, extendable | 2 years, not extend. | 3 years, extendable |
| Dependents Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Paid Employment (not business) | Allowed | Allowed | Allowed |
See a full breakdown on types of business visas.
Processing Times and Recent Updates
- As of July 2025, most applications are decided within 3 weeks (outside the UK) or up to 8 weeks (inside the UK).
- ILR is possible after three years if business milestone and endorsement requirements are met.
- 2025 changes: Fee increases of 5–10% since April; application fee is currently £1,274 (outside UK) or £1,590 (inside UK).
- Additional requirements may apply, based on the applicant's country of origin or circumstances.
Common Questions
What defines “innovative, viable, scalable” for endorsement?
Can I apply without any investment funds?
What are common reasons for visa refusal?
Can I bring my family?
How long is the processing time?
In Conclusion
The Innovator Visa is a fast-tracked, flexible, and dynamic option for visionary founders looking to make lasting impact in the UK. While requirements are strict and competition is high, the rewards include permanent residency in as little as three years, as well as the right to bring your family. Early preparation, a strong, well-documented business plan, and continuous engagement with your endorsing body remain crucial for success.
Disclaimer: The information in this article was accurate as of July 2025. Visa eligibility, fees, and criteria are subject to change—always confirm with official sources or expert advisors prior to application.
