INNOVATOR FOUNDERS
Who can apply under this Innovator Founder route: This route is suitable for those who wants to start their business/es in the UK.
Introduction of the route: The Innovator Founder route is a highly attractive UK immigration pathway designed for experienced entrepreneurs and innovators looking to establish and run innovative businesses in the UK. At Biz Immigration Associates, we specialise in guiding seasoned professionals through this process to ensure a seamless transition and successful application. To qualify for this route, applicants must be at least 18 years old and present a business idea that is viable, scalable, and innovative. Our team will assist you in obtaining the necessary endorsement from an approved endorsing body that evaluates your business proposal. Unlike previous schemes, this route does not require a minimum investment, though you must have sufficient personal savings to support yourself during your stay. The visa is initially valid for up to three years and can be extended indefinitely, with an opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years, subject to meeting specific criteria. Additionally, you can bring your spouse, partner, and children under 18 as dependents, and engage in supplementary work or study without detracting from your business commitments.
At Biz Immigration Associates, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the Innovator Founder route, ensuring that your innovative business thrives in the UK. This route not only fosters economic growth through pioneering ventures but also provides a clear path to permanent residency, enhancing your long-term prospects in the UK. By partnering with us, you benefit from our expertise in preparing a compelling business proposal, securing endorsements, and managing all aspects of your entry clearance or permission to remain application process. Our comprehensive service is designed to make your transition as smooth as possible, allowing you to focus on what you do best innovating and growing your business. Let us help you take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey and capitalise on the opportunities the UK has to offer.
Validity Requirements
Upon successful application, the initial visa granted under the Innovator Founder route is valid for a period of up to three years. This initial duration allows entrepreneurs ample time to establish their innovative business ventures in the UK, laying the foundation for growth and success.
Extensions are available for an additional three years, contingent upon meeting specific criteria. To qualify for an extension, applicants must demonstrate substantial progress in their business ventures, as assessed by the endorsing body. This progress may include achieving key milestones outlined in the original business proposal, such as revenue generation, market expansion, or product development. Successful extensions provide entrepreneurs with continued authorization to operate and develop their businesses within the UK market.
After maintaining continuous residence in the UK under the Innovator category for a minimum of five years, entrepreneurs become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR status grants permanent residency in the UK, offering entrepreneurs stability and security in their established businesses. However, to qualify for ILR, applicants must meet certain requirements, including the successful operation and growth of their businesses, adherence to immigration laws, and absence of serious criminal convictions.
In certain exceptional cases, applicants may be eligible for accelerated ILR after just three years of continuous residence. This accelerated pathway is available to entrepreneurs who have demonstrated significant achievements against their original business plans or have created at least 10 full-time jobs for resident workers within their businesses. This expedited process recognizes and rewards entrepreneurs who have made substantial contributions to the UK economy through their innovative ventures.
Suitability Requirements
The Innovator Founder route is designed for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that have the potential for scalability and growth within the UK market. Applicants must present business concepts that offer unique solutions, products, or services, distinguishing them from existing offerings and demonstrating market demand and viability.
A comprehensive business proposal is a fundamental requirement for the Innovator Founder route. This proposal serves as a blueprint for the proposed business venture, outlining its innovative nature, market potential, growth strategy, financial projections, and any other relevant details. The proposal must effectively articulate the innovation, viability, and scalability of the business idea, providing compelling evidence to support its endorsement by an approved endorsing body.
Endorsement from an approved endorsing body is a critical step in the application process for the Innovator Founder route. Endorsing bodies evaluate the business proposal to assess its innovation, viability, and scalability, as well as the applicant’s suitability as an entrepreneur. Successful endorsement provides entrepreneurs with validation and support for their business ideas, enhancing their credibility and prospects for visa approval.
Applicants must demonstrate financial stability to support themselves and their dependents, if applicable, during their stay in the UK. This includes sufficient personal savings to cover living expenses, business costs, and any unforeseen circumstances. Financial stability provides assurance that entrepreneurs can sustain themselves while focusing on developing and growing their businesses within the UK market.
Proficiency in the English language is essential for effective communication and integration into the UK business environment. Applicants must meet the English language requirement unless exempted based on specific criteria, such as nationality or previous qualifications. Adequate language skills enable entrepreneurs to interact confidently with stakeholders, customers, and partners, facilitating business operations and growth.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for the Innovator Founder route. This minimum age requirement ensures that applicants possess the maturity, experience, and capacity to undertake entrepreneurial endeavours and manage business ventures effectively.
Applicants are required to demonstrate sufficient personal savings to support themselves and their dependents, if applicable, during their stay in the UK. Personal savings serve as a financial safety net, providing entrepreneurs with the resources necessary to cover living expenses, business costs, and other financial obligations without relying on public funds or benefits.
Entrepreneurs must demonstrate a commitment to dedicating most of their working time to running the endorsed business within the UK. This commitment ensures that entrepreneurs actively engage in business operations, strategic planning, and decision-making, contributing to the growth and success of their ventures.
Dependent Sponsorship
- Applicants have the option to sponsor their spouse, partner, and children under 18 as dependents to accompany them to the UK.
- Dependent sponsorship allows entrepreneurs to maintain family unity and support while pursuing their entrepreneurial aspirations within the UK market.
Compliance with Additional Requirements:
Applicants must comply with any additional requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) at the time of application. These requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, changes in immigration laws or policies, or specific directives issued by UKVI. Compliance with additional requirements ensures that applicants adhere to all regulatory obligations and procedural guidelines throughout the application process, enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
This detailed overview provides prospective applicants with a comprehensive understanding of the eligibility, suitability, and validity requirements associated with the Innovator Founder route, empowering them to make informed decisions and navigate the application process effectively.
What can you achieve under this route:
Successful innovator founders in the UK enjoy significant privileges and benefits through the Innovator Visa program. This visa facilitates their ability to establish and scale their businesses in one of the world’s leading economies. Key benefits include a streamlined immigration process, enabling them to focus on business activities without the constant concern of visa renewals. They also can bring their families, ensuring personal and familial stability, which can enhance their overall well-being and productivity. The Innovator Visa provides a clear path to permanent residency and potentially British citizenship, offering long-term security and stability for the founders and their dependents.
Additionally, the UK’s supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem offers numerous advantages. Innovator founders gain access to a broad network of investors, mentors, and business advisors, which is crucial for scaling their ventures. They can benefit from various tax incentives and research and development credits that reduce operational costs and enhance profitability. The strong legal protections for intellectual property in the UK further ensure that their innovations are safeguarded. Furthermore, being based in the UK allows them to tap into a diverse and skilled talent pool, facilitating the building of a robust team to drive their business forward. Overall, these privileges and benefits empower innovator founders to thrive and achieve substantial personal and professional success.
Entry clearance or permission to remain application process: The Innovator Founder visa is a pathway for experienced businesspeople who seek to establish an innovative business in the UK. The process involves several steps, including obtaining an endorsement, preparing and submitting the visa application, and meeting various eligibility criteria. Below is a detailed outline of the entire Innovator Founder visa application process:
Innovator Founder application process has two stages:
Stage 1: Obtaining an Endorsement
- Business Plan: Develop a viable, scalable, and innovative business idea. The business must be different from anything else on the market.
- Endorsement Body: Identify an endorsing body approved by the UK Home Office that matches your business sector.
- Endorsement:
Submit a detailed business plan outlining the innovation, viability, and scalability of the business. Provide evidence of business experience and ability to execute the business plan. Attend interviews or presentations if required by the endorsing body. Receive Endorsement Letter: If the endorsing body approves your application, you will receive an endorsement letter. This letter is a mandatory requirement for the visa application.
Stage 2:
Preparing Entry Clearance or Permission to remain application.
Eligibility Criteria:
Ensure you meet with all the entry clearance or permission to remain requirements:
- Age 18 or over
- A business plan which is Innovative, Viable, Scalable and unique.
- Endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body.
- Sufficient personal savings (at least £1,270) to support yourself in the UK.
- Sufficient investment for the business (if applicable).
- Passport or other valid travel identification.
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).
- Proof of knowledge of the English language (e.g., an approved English language test or a degree taught in English).
Submit Visa Application:
Online Application: Complete the visa application form on the UK government website.
Application Fee: Pay the application fee. As of the latest information, the fee is £1,021 if you are applying from outside the UK and £1,277 if you are applying from within the UK.
Healthcare Surcharge: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which allows you to use the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
Biometric Information: Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.
Await Decision:
Processing Time: Applications from outside the UK usually take around 3 weeks, while those from inside the UK take about 8 weeks.
Additional Information: The Home Office may contact you for further information or an interview.
Post-Decision Process:
Approval: If approved, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport if applying from outside the UK, or a biometric residence permit if applying from within the UK.
Travel to the UK: If you received a vignette, travel to the UK within the validity period and collect your biometric residence permit.
Post-Arrival in the UK:
Activate Business Plan: Begin working on your endorsed business venture.
Endorsing Body Monitoring: Maintain regular contact with your endorsing body as they will monitor your progress and can withdraw their endorsement if the business plan is not being followed.
Extension and Settlement: After three years, you can apply to extend your visa or settle permanently in the UK if you meet the criteria, including continued endorsement and business success.
Extension or Settlement:
Further Endorsement: For extension or settlement, obtain another endorsement confirming business progress and future plans.
Apply for Extension or Settlement: Submit the necessary application before your current visa expires, including all required documentation and fees.
Additional Considerations
Dependants: You can bring your partner and children (under 18) with you. They will need to apply separately, either at the same time as your application or once you have been granted your entry clearance or permission to remain as an Innovator Founder.
Compliance: Ensure ongoing compliance with all visa conditions to avoid jeopardising your stay or future applications.
The Innovator Founder visa application process is complex and requires careful preparation and compliance with all requirements. Professional legal advice can be beneficial to navigate this process effectively.
Note: If you are not eligible for this visa, please contact us, you may be eligible for another visa.
Our Tailored Solutions for Innovator Founder visa
Our Tailored Innovator Founder Solutions are designed to provide comprehensive support and expert guidance throughout the application process. We cater to the unique needs of entrepreneurs/Innovators who wish to establish an innovative business in the UK. Our services ensure that clients meet all the necessary criteria and have a robust application for a successful outcome.
Our Services
Initial Consultation
- Detailed assessment of the client’s business idea to determine eligibility.
- Evaluation of the applicant’s background, skills, and qualifications.
- Overview of the Innovator Visa requirements and the application process
Business Idea Development
- Assistance in refining and developing the business idea to meet the innovation, viability, uniqueness and scalability criteria.
- Collaboration with the client to create a compelling business plan. Market research and analysis to support the business proposition.
Endorsement Support
- Guidance on selecting an appropriate endorsing body.
- Preparation and submission of endorsement applications.
- Providing full support and guidance to resolve any queries or concerns raised by the endorsing body.
Document Preparation
- Comprehensive checklist of required documents.
- Assistance in gathering and organising supporting documents.
- Review of all documents to ensure accuracy and compliance with UKVI requirements.
Application Submission
- Completion of the Innovator Visa application form.
- Compilation and submission of the full application package to the Home Office with our representation letter. In our representation letter, we explain to the Home Office that how you have satisfied the Innovator Founder visa requirements.
- Payment of relevant fees and submission confirmation.
Interview Preparation
- Guidance on what to expect during the interview process.
- Mock interviews to build confidence and address potential questions.
- Feedback and tips on improving interview performance.
Post-Application Support
- Continuous monitoring of the application status.
- Liaison with the Home Office for any follow-up queries or additional information requests.
- Assistance with any additional documentation or clarifications needed.
Aftercare Services
• Support with business setup and establishment in the UK.
• Guidance on compliance with Innovator Visa conditions and requirements.
• Guidance on additional legal requirements for operating a legitimate business in full compliance with all applicable jurisdictions within the United Kingdom.
• Assistance with extension applications and transition to settlement status.
Additional Services
• Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs and business professionals.
• Access to legal and financial advice to support business operations.
• Regular updates on immigration policies and regulations.
Why Choose Us
Expertise
Our team of experienced immigration lawyers and business consultants provide unparalleled expertise in Innovator Visa applications.
Tailored Solutions
We offer customized services that cater to the specific needs and circumstances of each client.
Comprehensive Support
From initial consultation to business establishment, we provide end-to-end support throughout the entire process.
Success Rate
Our proven track record of successful Innovator Visa applications speaks to our dedication and competence.
Contact Us
To learn more about our tailored Innovator Visa solutions, and you would like to schedule our free consultation, please contact us at +447383966006 or drop us an email contact@bizimmigrationassociates.com or you may reach out to us through the following social media platforms. Let us help you turn your innovative business idea into a reality in the UK.