The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for both start-up entrepreneurs and experienced businesspersons looking to establish an innovative, viable, and scalable business in the UK. Unlike some other visa routes, this visa does not require applicants to invest a specific amount of funds into their business. However, applicants must demonstrate that their business idea is supported by a robust plan and has been endorsed by a recognised UK endorsing body.
If you are considering applying for the Innovator Founder Visa, instructing DJF Lexvisa Solicitors can significantly improve your chances of success. With our extensive experience in immigration law, we can assist you in preparing and submitting a strong application that meets all requirements.
What Is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa allows entrepreneurs to set up a new business in the UK or significantly contribute to an existing one. The visa is valid for three years and offers a direct path to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after this period. Successful applicants can also bring their partner and children under 18 to the UK.
An essential element of this visa route is the requirement to generate or substantially contribute to a business idea, and applicants must take an active role in the management and development of the business.
For personalised legal advice tailored to your situation, DJF Lexvisa Solicitors can guide you through every stage of the visa application process.
Key Requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa
To qualify for the Innovator Founder Visa, you will need to meet several specific requirements, including:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Endorsement: A letter from an approved UK endorsing body is required, confirming that your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
- English Language Proficiency: A minimum level of CEFR B2 (equivalent to IELTS 5.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking) is required.
- Financial Requirement: If applying from outside the UK or living in the UK for less than 12 months, you must show £1,270 in personal funds to support yourself. Additional funds will be required for dependents.
Working with a solicitor from DJF Lexvisa ensures that your application will comply with all these conditions, providing you with peace of mind throughout the process.
Who Should Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?
This visa is suitable for both start-up entrepreneurs and experienced business owners. While many applicants will be establishing new businesses, it is possible to join an existing business, provided it has not yet started trading.
One of the advantages of this visa is its flexibility in business sectors. Your business can operate in any industry, as long as it meets the criteria of innovation, viability, and scalability.
For those unsure whether the Innovator Founder Visa is the right route, the team at DJF Lexvisa Solicitors can offer expert advice. We can help you explore other potential visa options, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, based on your business needs.
Investment Requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa
Although there is no minimum financial investment specified, the business idea must be viable and scalable. In practice, you will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient resources to grow your business. This flexible approach allows applicants with innovative ideas to be assessed on the strength of their business proposal rather than specific financial figures.
Endorsement Criteria for the Innovator Founder Visa
Endorsement is a critical component of the Innovator Founder Visa application. The endorsing body must confirm that:
– You are a fit and proper person to receive the endorsement.
– Your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
– You will have regular contact point meetings with the endorsing body throughout your stay in the UK.
Why DJF Lexvisa Solicitors?
Navigating the Innovator Founder Visa process can be complex, especially with the need to meet multiple requirements simultaneously. DJF Lexvisa Solicitors specialise in immigration law and can provide you with expert advice on how to prepare and submit a well-supported visa application.
We assist with every stage of the process, from business plan preparation to securing an endorsement from an approved body. By instructing us, you are significantly increasing your chances of a successful application.
Endorsement for Same Business Ventures
If you have already established a business and are switching from another visa route, such as the Start-up or Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) Visa, you may be eligible for further endorsement under the Innovator Founder Visa. In this case, you must show that your business is active, trading, and sustainable, and that you have made significant progress on your original business plan.
Innovator Founder Visa English Language and Financial Requirements
Applicants must prove their English language ability to at least CEFR Level B2. Additionally, the financial requirement states that you must have £1,270 in personal savings (held for at least 28 days) before applying, plus additional funds for any dependents.
Ensuring that these requirements are met is essential for a successful application. DJF Lexvisa Solicitors can help you gather the necessary financial evidence and assist you with English language test bookings if needed.
Contact DJF Lexvisa Solicitors for Expert Assistance
The Innovator Founder Visa offers a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs and businesspersons to establish themselves in the UK. However, the process is detailed and requires careful preparation. Our London leading Solicitors have a proven track record in guiding clients through complex visa applications.
Our team of experienced immigration lawyers can help you prepare and submit a strong Innovator Founder Visa application, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and significantly increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
For professional, personalised legal advice, contact DJF Lexvisa Solicitors today on 02030110276 to start your journey towards UK business success.