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Work visa · Updated April 2026

Innovator Founder Visa

Launch an innovative, viable and scalable UK business.

Fee
£1,274 (outside UK) / £1,590 (inside UK)
IHS
£1,035 / year
Duration
3 years, extendable indefinitely
Processing
3 weeks

Overview

For experienced businesspeople setting up a business endorsed by an approved body. Replaced the old Start-up and Innovator visas in April 2023.

Eligibility

  • Endorsement from an approved endorsing body (list updated annually on GOV.UK)
  • Business idea is innovative, viable and scalable — assessed at endorsement
  • English language B2 CEFR
  • Sufficient personal savings (£1,270+, held 28 days)
  • Contact points with endorsing body at 12 and 24 months

Required documents

  • Passport
  • Endorsement letter
  • Detailed business plan
  • English language B2 certificate
  • Bank statements

How to apply

  1. 1
    Refine your business plan
    Focus on innovation (new product/service), viability, and scalability.
  2. 2
    Get endorsed
    Pitch to an approved endorsing body — fees vary £1,000-£5,000.
  3. 3
    Apply for visa
    Submit application within 3 months of endorsement.
  4. 4
    Launch and meet contact points
    Build the business; attend review meetings at 12 and 24 months.
  5. 5
    Settle
    Eligible for settlement after 3 years if business criteria are met.

Key notes

  • No minimum investment funds — but endorsing bodies will test financial viability.
  • Secondary employment permitted alongside running your business (skilled roles only).
Apply on gov.uk