Set up and run an innovative business in the UK. Learn about endorsement requirements, visa duration, fees and how to settle permanently.
UK • Entrepreneurship • 3‑year visa • Innovator Founder pathway
The UK Innovator Founder visa allows you to create and run an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK【520906916700524†L106-L125】. You need endorsement from an approved body and must meet English language and other eligibility requirements【520906916700524†L130-L133】. The visa lasts 3 years and can be extended; settlement is possible after three years【520906916700524†L139-L156】. This guide details eligibility, fees and application steps.
Eligibility criteria
- Innovative business idea: Your idea must be original, viable and scalable; you cannot join an existing business【520906916700524†L118-L125】.
- Endorsement: An approved endorsing body must assess and endorse your business【520906916700524†L106-L128】.
- English language: You must prove your English proficiency (speaking, reading, writing and understanding)【520906916700524†L130-L133】.
- Age & funds: You must be at least 18 and have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. There is no minimum investment requirement, but you must pay endorsement and visa fees.
Fees & costs
As of 2025, the visa application fees are:
| Application type | Fee (per person) |
|---|---|
| Applying from outside the UK | £1,274 |
| Extending or switching within the UK | £1,590 |
Additionally, you must pay an endorsement fee of £1,000 and £500 for each mandatory check‑in with your endorsing body【520906916700524†L189-L204】. The UK healthcare surcharge also applies【520906916700524†L208-L210】.
Benefits & duration
3‑year visa
The Innovator Founder visa lets you stay in the UK for 3 years【520906916700524†L139-L146】. You must meet with your endorsing body at 12 and 24 months to show progress【520906916700524†L146-L147】.
Extendable & settlement
You can extend your visa for another 3 years with a new endorsement; there’s no limit on renewals【520906916700524†L151-L155】. You may apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after 3 years【520906916700524†L156-L157】.
Family & side work
You can bring your partner and children if they meet eligibility rules【520906916700524†L168-L169】【520906916700524†L220-L228】. You may work outside your business in skilled roles requiring at least Level 3 qualification【520906916700524†L218-L227】.
How to apply
- Develop your business idea: Prepare a detailed business plan demonstrating innovation, viability and scalability.
- Seek endorsement: Contact an approved endorsing body, submit your plan and pay the endorsement fee. Wait for their approval【520906916700524†L106-L125】【520906916700524†L189-L204】.
- Gather documents: Compile passports, financial statements, evidence of English proficiency and criminal record certificates.
- Apply online: Complete the online visa application, pay the visa and healthcare fees, and schedule biometrics. Decision times are typically 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK【520906916700524†L158-L186】.
- Launch and check‑ins: Once approved, relocate to the UK, set up your business and attend check‑ins at 12 and 24 months with your endorsing body【520906916700524†L146-L147】.
Tip: Start preparing your business plan early and research endorsing bodies. Their evaluation is crucial for success.
FAQs
Do I need to invest a minimum amount?
No specific investment amount is required, but your business must be innovative, viable and scalable【520906916700524†L118-L125】. You must pay endorsement and visa fees.
How long until I can settle?
You may apply for settlement after 3 years, provided you meet the criteria and your business remains endorsed【520906916700524†L156-L157】.
Can I work outside my business?
Yes, you may take on other work requiring at least Level 3 qualification in addition to running your business【520906916700524†L218-L227】.
© 2025 jarovix.shop • Information may change; always verify endorsement rules, fees and policies on the official GOV.UK website.