UK Innovator Founder Visa

Be 18 years or older

Intend to set up and run an innovative business in the UK

Obtain endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body

Meet English language requirements (B2 level)

Show £1,270 in personal savings to support yourself in the UK

Business plan

Your business plan must demonstrate that your idea is Innovative: clearly original and distinct from anything already available in the UK market. Viable: realistically executable with a sustainable model and your demonstrated business acumen. Scalable: offers potential for growth, job creation, and expansion into national or international markets.

Business endorsement

You must receive an endorsement from an approved body. These include Envestors Limited, UK Endorsement Services, Innovator International, and the Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP). Endorsing bodies assess factors such as market demand, originality, business strategy, long-term viability, and your ability to deliver the business plan.

English language requirement

You must meet CEFR Level B2 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, or hold a degree taught in English, or be from an English-speaking exempt country.

Maintenance funds

Show evidence of £1,270 in your bank account, held for at least 28 days before your application. This proves you can support yourself in the UK.

Valid passport or travel document

Endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body

Business plan or supporting pitch materials

Proof of English language proficiency

Financial evidence (e.g. bank statements showing £1,270+ in savings)

Tuberculosis test results (if required, based on country)

Biometric data (submitted during the application process)

Reapply before your visa expires

Still be running your business or starting a new one

Continue to meet the original endorsement criteria

Extension Fee: £1,486

Processing time: Approx. 8 weeks

Develop your business plan

Develop your business plan.

Apply for endorsement

Apply for endorsement from a recognised UK endorsing body.

Submit your visa application

Submit your visa application online via the Home Office portal.

Verify your identity

Attend a biometric appointment, or use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.

Pay application fees

£1,191 (applying from outside the UK), £1,486 (applying from inside the UK), Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year.

Receive a decision

Receive a decision, usually within 3 weeks.

You've held the visa for the full 3 years

You've not been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period

You secure a new endorsement confirming your business has achieved key growth milestones

You pass the Life in the UK Test