UK Innovator Founder Visa – Your Gateway to UK Business
The Innovator Founder Visa is one of the most attractive immigration routes for international entrepreneurs who want to set up and run an innovative business in the UK. Designed for experienced business owners and investors, this visa provides a direct pathway to establish a presence in one of the world’s leading economies.
At Citi Venture Group, we specialise in guiding UAE-based entrepreneurs and investors through the complete UK business setup and immigration process.
What Is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa replaced the old Entrepreneur Visa (Tier 1), which is no longer available. Unlike the previous routes, the Innovator Founder focuses on business innovation, scalability, and viability, not just investment capital.
This visa allows entrepreneurs to:
- Start a new, innovative business in the UK
- Work as a founder or co-founder of their venture
- Bring eligible dependants (spouse/partner and children)
- Progress towards settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and eventually British citizenship
📎 See our complete guide on UK Immigration with Family.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must:
- Have an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body
- Present a business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable
- Show that they are actively engaged in running the business
- Meet English language requirements
- Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and dependants
📎 Explore our Business and Company Formation services for structured UK business setup.
Duration and Path to Settlement
- Visa length: 3 years
- Renewable: Yes, provided endorsement conditions are met
- Settlement: Eligible after 3 years of continuous residence
- British citizenship: Possible after 5 years (if settlement granted)
📎 Learn more about our UK Expansion Worker Visa Services for companies looking to expand into the UK.
Why Choose the Innovator Founder Visa?
- No strict investment requirement (unlike old Tier 1 routes)
- Fast-track to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Opportunity to bring your family members
- Access to the UK’s thriving business ecosystem
- Support in connecting with investors, accelerators, and incubators
Application Process
- Develop Your Business Plan – Ensure your idea meets UK innovation standards
- Secure Endorsement – Apply through an approved UK endorsing body
- Submit Visa Application – Provide required documentation and evidence
- Move to the UK – Begin establishing and scaling your business
📎 Contact us via our Contact Page to begin your application.
FAQs
There is no fixed investment requirement, but you must show that your business can be launched and sustained financially.
Yes, your spouse/partner and children under 18 can apply as dependants.
You may apply for settlement after 3 years if your business meets growth and innovation milestones.
No, this visa is strictly for entrepreneurs who want to set up and manage their own business.
Endorsements are issued by the Home Office–approved endorsing bodies, such as business accelerators or venture capital firms.