The Innovator Founder Visa is a unique opportunity for experienced entrepreneurs to establish or run innovative businesses in the UK. Unlike other visa routes, it allows flexibility and does not require a specific amount of investment funds, making it an excellent choice for visionary business founders.

Replacing the Innovator Visa and Start-Up Visa, this category offers greater support for founders at any stage of their business development. With the potential for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, it is a gateway to building a lasting presence in the UK.

At Muya Consultancy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

 

What is the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for entrepreneurs looking to create or manage innovative businesses in the UK. To qualify, your business idea must be:

• New: You cannot join or take over an existing business.
• Innovative: Your idea must offer something unique and different from what is already available in the market.
• Viable: Your business should demonstrate potential for growth and success.
• Scalable: It must have the ability to create jobs and significantly contribute to the UK economy.

The visa is valid for up to 3 years, with options for extension or applying for ILR.

 

Eligibility Criteria for the Innovator Founder Visa

To be eligible, you must:

1. Be at least 18 years old.
2. Have an innovative business idea endorsed by an authorised endorsing body.
3. Meet the English language requirement (CEFR Level B2 or higher).
4. Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency during your stay in the UK.

 

What is an Endorsing Body?

Endorsing bodies are UK government-authorised organisations responsible for evaluating and approving business ideas. Your business must meet their criteria for being new, innovative, viable, and scalable.

The endorsing body will monitor your progress to ensure your business aligns with its approved development plan.

 

Do You Need Investment Funds to Apply?

Unlike previous routes, the Innovator Founder Visa does not require a minimum investment amount. However, you must demonstrate sufficient financial stability to support yourself and develop your business during your stay.

 

Bringing Family Members with You

The Innovator Founder Visa allows you to bring dependents, including:

• Your spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
• Your children under 18.

Your dependents can live and work in the UK while you focus on developing your business.

 

English Language Requirement

You must prove your proficiency in English by:

• Passing an approved English test at CEFR Level B2 or higher, or
• Holding an academic qualification taught in English, such as a degree from an English-speaking country.

 

Duration and Settlement Options

• The Innovator Founder Visa is valid for up to 3 years.
• After this period, you can:
  • Apply to extend your visa for another 3 years, or
  • Apply for ILR after 5 years, provided you meet the continuous residence and business development requirements.

 

Switching to an Innovator Founder Visa

If you are already in the UK on a different visa, you can switch to the Innovator Founder Visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. Be sure to apply before your current visa expires.

 

How to Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa

1. Secure endorsement for your business idea from an authorised endorsing body.
2. Gather all required documents, including proof of English language ability and financial stability.
3. Complete the online application form and pay the relevant fees.
4. Attend a biometric appointment to submit your fingerprints and photograph.

 

Costs for the Innovator Founder Visa

• Application Fee: £1,191 (outside the UK) or £1,486 (inside the UK).
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year of your stay.

 

Path to Permanent Settlement in the UK

After five years, you may be eligible to apply for ILR if you:

• Have been actively running your endorsed business.
• Maintained your endorsement throughout your stay.
• Meet the continuous residence requirement (not spending more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period).

 

How Muya Consultancy Can Help?

At Muya Consultancy, we provide expert guidance to entrepreneurs navigating the Innovator Founder Visa process. Our services include:

• Eligibility Assessment: Evaluating your business idea to ensure it meets endorsement criteria.
• Endorsement Preparation: Assisting with finding the right endorsing body and preparing your business plan for approval.
• Application Support: Guiding you through the visa application process, ensuring all requirements are met.
• Document Preparation: Helping you compile and present necessary documents, such as financial proof and English language certifications.
• Visa Extensions and ILR Assistance: Supporting you in extending your visa or transitioning to ILR.

 

Start Your Entrepreneurial Journey in the UK
At Muya Consultancy, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs achieve their goals while navigating the complexities of UK immigration. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your Innovator Founder Visa application and help bring your business vision to life.