innovator founder visa launched
minimum requirement
months processing time
The UK’s financial, commercial, and, moreover, cultural reach is unparalleled. It has an attractive tax regime and also provides a safe investment environment. Above all, the UK Innovator Founder Visa guarantees entrepreneurs permanent residence within three years.
Read MoreAs the UK is one of the most well-connected countries in the world, it therefore attracts citizens of virtually every nation to live, trade, and create. So, qualifying for this Residency by Investment and starting an innovative company allows you to tap into the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit and access educational opportunities.
In order to meet the requirements for the Innovator Founder visa, you must satisfy the following requirements:
Innovation: You must demonstrate a genuine, original business plan that meets new or existing market needs and/or creates a competitive advantage.
Viability: You must demonstrate that your plan is realistic and achievable based on your resources and that you have (or are developing) the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and market awareness to run the business successfully.
Scalability: You must demonstrate all of the following:
An approved UK endorsing body will review your business plan and will:
This will lead to the issuance of a letter of endorsement, which must be issued not more than three months before the date of your visa application.
Unless an exemption applies, you must demonstrate English Language ability equivalent to CEFR level B2.
If you are outside the UK or have been in the UK for less than 12 months, you must prove having held the following level of funds for a 28-day period: £1,270 to support yourself, plus £285 for a dependent partner, £315 for a first child, and, then, £200 for each additional child.
Unless an exemption applies, you must provide a health certificate confirming that you have undergone screening for active pulmonary tuberculosis.
In order to qualify for indefinite leave to remain as an Innovator Founder, you will need to demonstrate that:
You have been endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body that is satisfied that you have shown significant achievements judged against the business plan assessed in your previous endorsement. In addition, that you are registered with Companies House as a Director or Member of your business, your business is active, trading and appears sustainable for at least the following 12 months, and you have had an active key role in the day-to-day management and development of the business.
You satisfy at least two of the following conditions:
You have spent not more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12-month period during the three years prior to the date of application and you have sufficient knowledge of the English language and life in the UK.
The Latitude team has global experts in over 20 countries. We can advise in 14 languages. Let us help you find the perfect investment migration solution.
The Latitude team has global experts in over 20 countries. We can advise in 14 languages. Let us help you find the perfect investment migration solution.
We commence our process, naturally enough, with Form 1. This allows us to carry out the initial Latitude due diligence. Following successful screening, we will provide you with a Client Agreement (CA). Only after your review and signature will we proceed with the next stage.
Here, Latitude help you develop a comprehensive business plan. Above all, this outlines your innovative business concept, its potential for growth, and a strategy for success.
These crucial steps will help you establish a solid foundation and secure the necessary support for the UK Innovator Founder Visa application. In turn, we will liaise with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on your behalf.
Once a government-approved body has endorsed you, we will introduce you to our immigration lawyer. They will provide personalized guidance and, also, support to ensure your successful visa application.
The lawyer will review all necessary documents, plus assist with completing the application, and, furthermore, represent you in any interactions with the UK immigration authorities.
You may apply for UK citizenship if you meet the requirements. These include having spent no more than 450 days outside the UK in the five years prior to your application.
As long as you have met all relevant criteria and maintained your visa status during your stay in the UK, you may be eligible for permanent residence, which allows you to remain in the country indefinitely. This status offers stability, security, and access to numerous benefits and opportunities associated with living in the UK.
You may apply for UK citizenship if you meet the requirements. These include having spent no more than 450 days outside the UK in the five years prior to your application.
You will be eligible for permanent residency by year 3, provided you have maintained your visa status, that is. You must have also fulfilled the other requirements (including meeting two of the seven innovator achievements).
While the government no longer requires proof of funds over £50,000 for the innovator visa, you still need to demonstrate to the endorsing body that your business can achieve sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Innovative, viable, and scalable businesses often require significant investment, and depending on the business type, model, and industry, having at least £200,000 in funding may be necessary to establish a strong foundation for long-term success.
Latitude’s experienced team can help you develop a detailed and realistic financial plan that both meets the endorsing body’s requirements and positions your concept for success.
As a main applicant, you can also apply for dependant visas for your spouse and children below 18.
Our team operates in over 20 countries worldwide, securing second citizenship or residency in desirable locations, and unlocking a brighter future.
2-3 months processing time
No minimum investment requirement