UK Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa is a specialised visa category designed for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow innovative businesses in the United Kingdom.
If you are planning to apply for a UK Innovator Founder visa, our immigration solicitors can provide legal advice assistance with your Innovator Founder visa application.
Please contact our immigration solicitor at 0158 235 9990 or fill in the enquiry form to take the first step towards your successful UK Innovator Founder visa application.
What is the Innovator Founder visa?
You are eligible to apply for an Innovator Founder visa if you intend to establish and operate an innovative business in the UK. Your business must be unique and unlike anything currently available on the market, and it must have received endorsement from an approved endorsing body.
This visa is ideal for experienced businesspeople with innovative ideas that are viable, scalable, and have the potential to grow in the UK market.
This visa replaces the previous Innovator and Start-up visas, offering a streamlined path for business founders to develop their ventures in one of the world's most dynamic economies.
Key benefits of the Innovator Founder visa
- No Minimum Investment Requirement: Unlike the previous Innovator Visa, there is no longer a minimum investment threshold, making it accessible to more entrepreneurs.
- Long-Term Residency: The visa is initially granted for three years, with the possibility of extension and a clear pathway to indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
- Work Flexibility: Innovator Founder visa holders can work for their business as well as take on additional employment in other roles, offering greater financial security.
- Family Inclusion: You can bring your spouse/partner and children under 18 with you to the UK, allowing your family to accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey.
Eligibility criteria for the Innovator Founder visa
To be eligible for the Innovator Founder visa, applicants must meet several key criteria:
- Innovative Business Idea: Your business idea must be new, innovative, and viable, with the potential for growth and expansion in the UK market. The idea should not duplicate existing businesses.
- Endorsement: You must obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. These bodies assess the innovation, viability, and scalability of your business idea.
- English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate a good command of the English language, typically by passing an approved English language test or holding a degree taught in English.
- Sufficient Funds: You need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family while in the UK. This includes having at least £1,270 available in your bank account for 28 days before applying.
Depending on the type of your appication and circumstances, you must meet all the other eligibility requirements. Schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitor for your eligibility assessments.
Application process for the Innovator Founder visa
The process for applying for the Innovator Founder visa involves several steps:
1. Develop Your Business Idea
Before applying, ensure that your business idea is well-developed, innovative, and meets the endorsement criteria. Your business plan should outline the concept, market research, potential for growth, and how it will contribute to the UK economy.
2. Secure Endorsement
You must secure an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. These bodies assess whether your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable. They will provide you with an endorsement letter, which is crucial for your visa application.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including:
- Endorsement letter
- A passport or valid travel document
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Proof of sufficient personal savings
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- A detailed business plan
The document checklist provided above is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required depending on the type of your UK visa application and your circumstances. Schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitor to get a comprehensive list of required documents and eligibility assessments.
4. Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted online via the UK government's visa application portal. You will need to:
- Complete the application form
- Pay the visa fee
- Book and attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph
5. Wait for a Decision
The processing time for an Innovator Founder visa is typically around three weeks if you are applying from outside the UK, or eight weeks if applying from within the UK. Priority services are available for faster processing.
The processing time for a UK visa or immigration application can vary depending on several factors. All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about application processing time on the official UK government website either applying from inside the UK or outside the UK.
Innovator Founder visa application fees
How much you pay for an application depends on where you apply from.
- It costs £1,191 per person if you apply outside the UK.
- It costs £1,486 per person if you apply to extend or switch your visa in the UK.
Healthcare surcharge
You'll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application.
Why choose us?
Are you facing immigration challenges or seeking assistance with visa applications in the UK? Our team of experienced immigration solicitors is here to provide you with expert legal guidance and support every step of the way.
Here's why you should choose us and how we can help:
Expertise and Experience
Our immigration solicitors have years of experience navigating the complexities of UK immigration law. We stay updated with the latest developments in immigration policies and procedures to ensure that our clients receive accurate and reliable advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
Comprehensive Range of Services
Our immigration solicitors offer a wide range of services to individuals, families, and businesses. From visa applications and appeals to asylum claims and corporate immigration matters, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle various immigration issues effectively.
Strong Track Record of Success
With a proven track record of success, our immigration solicitors have helped countless individuals and families achieve their immigration goals. Whether it's obtaining a visa, securing permanent residency, or reuniting with loved ones, we have the skills and resources to get results.
Cost-Effective Solutions
We understand that immigration matters can be financially challenging, which is why we offer cost-effective solutions tailored to our clients' budgets. Our transparent fee structure ensures that you know exactly what to expect without any hidden costs or surprises along the way.
Regulated by SRA
Solicitors and law firms in the UK must be registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). You can check their credentials by visiting the SRA's official website or by asking the solicitor or law firm for their registration details.
We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) under SRA ID: 8000860, so you know you're in safe hands.
How to contact immigration solicitors in Luton?
Looking for an experienced immigration solicitor in Luton? Look no further than LEXMM SOLICITORS. For legal advice & help, call us today at 0158 235 9990.
To schedule a consultation, you can contact our office by phone (0158 235 9990) or email (info@lexmmsolicitors.co.uk). Alternatively, you can fill out the online contact form, and a member of our team will reach out to you promptly to arrange a suitable time for a consultation.