The UK is a global hub for innovation, attracting ambitious entrepreneurs ready to bring fresh ideas to the market. If you are looking to establish and scale a business that offers something unique, the Innovator Founder visa offers a route for entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in the UK.
At The Nathanson Partnership, our team of expert immigration advisors are here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. We simplify the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary criteria and submit the correct documentation for a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].
Who Can Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?
Before you apply, you must have a business or business idea that has been assessed and endorsed by an approved body. This endorsement is essential to demonstrate that your venture is innovative, viable, and scalable. Once secured, it serves as the foundation of your visa application.
Beyond endorsement, you must meet additional criteria. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, demonstrate English language proficiency, and provide proof of sufficient personal savings to support themselves in the UK. If you are setting up a new business, you may need to show evidence of investment funds unless your venture has already been endorsed under a previous visa.
With an initial validity of three years, the Innovator Founder visa allows you to build and grow your business in the UK. Throughout this period, you will be required to meet with your endorsing body to demonstrate progress at 12 and 24 months. Continued endorsement is essential to maintain your visa status. Should you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for an additional three years with no limit on the number of extensions. After three years in the UK, you may also become eligible for settlement.
The application process is handled online, with timeframes varying depending on whether you are applying from within or outside the UK. Typically, decisions are made within three weeks for applicants abroad and eight weeks for those already in the UK. Expedited processing may be available in certain cases.
To ensure a smooth application, you will need to provide key documentation, including an endorsement letter, a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and evidence of English language proficiency. Additional requirements may apply depending on individual circumstances.
Can I Bring My Family as an Innovator Founder Visa Holder?
If you are applying for an Innovator Founder visa, your partner and children may also be eligible to join you in the UK as dependants. This allows your family to live, work, and study in the UK while you focus on building your business.
A dependant can include your spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner, as well as children under 18. If your child is over 18, they may still qualify if they are already in the UK as your dependant. If approved, their visa will typically be granted for the same duration as yours.
To support your application, you must provide evidence of your relationship. For partners, this could be a marriage or civil partnership certificate recognised in the UK or proof of living together in a committed relationship for at least two years. If you have not lived together due to work, study, or cultural reasons, you must demonstrate an ongoing commitment, such as regular communication, financial support, or shared responsibilities.
For children, proof of residency and dependency is required. They must live with you unless they are in full-time education, and they must not be married or in a civil partnership. Documents such as bank statements, NHS registration records, or official correspondence from their school or university may be needed to confirm their status.
Why You Should Choose The Nathanson Partnership
At The Nathanson Partnership, we specialise in guiding Innovator Founder visa applicants through the complex UK immigration process. Our team is here to make your visa application as smooth as possible.
Let our team of regulated immigration professionals provide you with the expertise and confidence you need to make a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].