UK Innovator Founder
A UK route for founders with an innovative, endorsed business.
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.
Frequently asked
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Is UK Innovator Founder right for you?
We'll tell you honestly, including when another programme, or simply waiting, would serve you better.