Innovator Founder Visa: Relocate and Build Your Dream Business in the UK

The Innovator Founder Visa provides an incredible opportunity for business-minded individuals looking to establish an innovative business in the UK. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or creative thinker, this visa allows you to relocate to the UK, develop your business, and contribute to one of the world’s most thriving economies.

At Neolite Travels and Tour, we specialize in helping Africans achieve their relocation dreams. From visa guidance to affordable accommodation options in the UK and beyond, we ensure the process is stress-free and straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know about the Innovator Founder Visa and how we can help you get started.

What is the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa is for individuals with innovative business ideas who want to set up and run a business in the UK. Unlike other business visas, this route is ideal for people who have fresh, scalable, and impactful ideas that can drive the economy forward.

  • To qualify, your business idea must meet the following criteria:
    • Innovation: Your business idea should be original and different from anything already on the market.
    • Viability: You must have the skills, knowledge, and experience to run the business successfully.
    • Scalability: Your business plan should demonstrate the potential for growth, job creation, and a presence in global markets.

If you have innovative ideas and want to establish a global footprint while gaining access to the UK market, then, this is for you.

Eligibility Requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa

To be eligible for the Innovator Founder Visa, you must meet these key requirements:

Endorsement

Your business idea must be endorsed by a recognized UK endorsing body. These organizations evaluate your business plan to ensure it meets the required standards for innovation, viability, and scalability.

Knowledge of English

You must prove your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at a minimum level of B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is crucial for conducting business in the UK.

Learn more about the English language requirement on the official UK government website.

Financial Support

You’ll need to show that you have sufficient personal savings to support yourself during your stay. This typically means having at least £1,270 in your account for 28 consecutive days before applying.

Learn more about the money you’ll need and how to prove it.

Who Should Apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for start-up entrepreneurs and experienced businesspersons, including Africans, who:

  • The Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for start-up entrepreneurs and experienced businesspersons, including Africans, who:
    • Want to launch or expand their innovative business ideas in the UK.
    • Seek an environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
    • Are prepared to commit to growing their business in the UK for the long term.

How Long Can You Stay with the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa allows you to stay in the UK for 3 years. After this period, you can extend your visa or apply for settlement (also known as indefinite leave to remain). Settlement lets you stay in the UK permanently and even apply for British citizenship after a year.

Extending Your Stay or Switching Visas

If your business is successful and you meet the endorsement requirements again, you can extend your Innovator Founder Visa for another 3 years. There’s no limit to the number of extensions you can apply for.

If you want to switch from another visa category, you can do so while in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. Learn more about how to extend or switch your visa.

Application Process for the Innovator Founder Visa

Applying for the Innovator Founder Visa involves several steps. Here’s how to go about it:

Obtain Endorsement

Secure an endorsement for your business idea from an authorized UK endorsing body.

Prepare Supporting Documents

Gather documents, including your passport, business plan, proof of financial savings, and proof of English proficiency.

Submit Your Application Online

Apply via the official UK government website. The application fee is:
£1,036 if applying from outside the UK.
£1,292 if applying from within the UK.

Biometric Appointment

You’ll need to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to provide fingerprints and photographs.

Decision Timeline

Decisions are typically made within 3 weeks if you’re applying from outside the UK and 8 weeks if you’re applying from within the UK. If you want a faster service, check here.

At Neolite Travels and Tour, we assist you throughout this process, ensuring your application is accurate and complete.

Healthcare Surcharge

As part of your application for the Innovator Founder Visa, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The surcharge is £624 per year. Learn more about the healthcare surcharge here.

What You Can and Cannot Do with The Innovator Founder Visa

  • What You Can Do:
    • Set up and run an approved business in the UK.
    • Bring your family (spouse and children under 18) with you to the UK.
    • Work for your business in a full-time capacity.
    • Do other eligible work outside your business.
  • What You Cannot Do:
    • Work as a professional sportsperson (e.g., take up a sports coaching job).
    • Claim public funds or benefits.
    • Run a business that has already been established in the UK.

Find more details on what this visa allows you to do.

Why Choose Neolite Travels and Tour?

At Neolite Travels and Tour, we understand the unique challenges Africans face when relocating abroad. Our expert team will guide you through every step of your Innovator Founder Visa application, from securing endorsements to finding affordable accommodation in the UK.

Our services include:

Visa Application Assistance

Comprehensive guidance to ensure a smooth application process.

Affordable Stays

We connect you with budget-friendly accommodation in the UK, the EU and Schengen zones, and Asia.

Relocation Support

Practical advice and resources to help you settle in comfortably.

Take the First Step Today

Ready to launch your business in the UK? Contact Neolite Travels and Tour to begin your Innovator Founder Visa journey. Our team is here to help you navigate the process and make your dream of relocating a reality.

To start your application today, fill out this form.

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