Startup Visa in United Kingdom
One documented route of this kind in United Kingdom, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Innovator Founder visa
For experienced entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable UK business endorsed by an approved body. Leads to settlement after 3 years.
- Processing time
- 3 weeks (outside UK) / 8 weeks (inside UK)
- Validity
- 3 years per grant; renewable
- Language requirement
- English at the required CEFR level
- Permanent residence
- ILR after 3 years if criteria met
- Citizenship
- Naturalisation 12 months after ILR (subject to residence rules)
Requirements
- Endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body
- Business plan for a new, innovative, viable and scalable idea
- English language proficiency
- Financial evidence (maintenance)
- Attendance at 12- and 24-month review meetings
Required Documents
- Endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body required
- Business plan evidencing a new/innovative/viable/scalable idea required
- Valid passport or travel ID required
- Proof of English language ability required
- Financial evidence required
Official fees
- Application fee (outside UK) 1,357 GBP
- Endorsement fee 1,000 GBP
- Immigration Health Surcharge (per year) 1,035 GBP
Process Steps
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1
Secure endorsement
Obtain endorsement from an approved body (£1,000).
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2
Apply online
Apply for the visa online.
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3
Pay fees
Pay the fee and the IHS.
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4
Biometrics and documents
Provide biometrics and documents.
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5
Decision
Await the decision.
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6
Review meetings
Attend the 12- and 24-month review meetings with the endorsing body.
Official Sources
- Innovator Founder visa Official
- Innovator Founder visa: documents you must provide Official