GB flagResidency by Investment · Europe

UK Innovator Founder

A UK route for founders with an innovative, endorsed business.

No fixed minimum Path to settlement Founder route

Minimum investment

Business-based

Processing time

3-4 months

Grants

Residence permit

Region

Europe

Overview

The Innovator Founder visa lets entrepreneurs settle in the UK by launching an innovative, viable and scalable business endorsed by an approved body, with a route to settlement, not a fixed investment sum.

Investment routes

Qualifying options for this programme. We model each against your goals.

Endorsed innovative business

Must be innovative, viable & scalable

No fixed minimum

Key benefits

  • No fixed minimum investment, judged on the business
  • Work for your own business in the UK
  • Route to indefinite leave to remain (settlement)
  • Bring your family

Requirements

  • Endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body
  • An innovative, viable and scalable business plan
  • English language and maintenance funds

Family inclusion

Partner and dependent children under 18 can join you.

What to weigh

  • Success depends on securing and retaining endorsement for a genuine business.
  • This replaced the closed Tier 1 (Investor) route, passive investment no longer qualifies.

Where it takes you

A selection of notable destinations this programme unlocks.

Live & work in the UK Path to settlement

Frequently asked

Is UK Innovator Founder right for you?

We'll tell you honestly, including when another programme, or simply waiting, would serve you better.