The UK Innovator Founder Visa is a specialised immigration route designed to enable entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and genuine growth potential to establish and operate their businesses in the UK. This article explains why the visa was created, who it is suitable for, and how to apply and maintain status under the latest UK immigration rules.

What is the background to the introduction of the Innovator Founder Visa?

The UK Government introduced the Innovator visa in 2019 to shift focus from purely financial investment migration towards attracting innovative and creative entrepreneurs. Previous Entrepreneur and Start-up visas had limitations in attracting genuine innovators due to investment thresholds and operational restrictions. The government made it clear that the strategic aim was to “encourage the migration of innovative talent to the UK, driving long-term economic growth and building advanced industry ecosystems.”

In 2023, the scheme was reformed and merged into the single Innovator Founder Visa, removing the minimum investment requirement and making the eligibility assessment based primarily on “innovation, viability and scalability.” This made it easier for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to bring their global business ventures into the UK market.

Who can apply for the Innovator Founder Visa?

This visa is available to experienced entrepreneurs or businesspersons looking to establish and actively run an innovative business in the UK. Applicants must obtain an Endorsement Letter from an approved Endorsing Body confirming that the business idea meets the criteria of innovation, viability, and scalability. They must also pass the “fit and proper person test” to demonstrate suitability and credibility. Failure to meet these thresholds will result in refusal.

What must a business plan demonstrate?

The business plan must be the applicant’s own work and must clearly evidence innovation, viability, and scalability. Innovation means the business addresses unmet market needs or offers a distinct competitive advantage. Viability refers to the realistic ability to operate the business successfully, achieve sustainable profits, and the applicant’s capability to manage it effectively. Scalability requires evidence of potential for job creation and expansion into national and international markets.

What does “Innovative, Viable, Scalable” mean in practice?

“Innovative” refers to a differentiated idea not currently available in the market, with protection against easy imitation or strong barriers to entry. “Viable” means the business is grounded in proven market demand, with a realistic operational plan, strong financial foundations, and capacity for longevity. “Scalable” requires a business capable of significant short-term growth, expanding beyond a limited locality to the UK as a whole and internationally, while delivering measurable job creation.

Can I apply as part of a team?

Team applications are permitted. However, each team member must apply individually for their own Innovator Founder Visa and obtain a separate Endorsement Letter. Each applicant must play a key role in formulating and delivering the business plan, and the plan must clearly outline individual responsibilities and contributions.

Can I switch to the Innovator Founder Visa from within the UK?

Yes. You can apply for the visa from overseas and enter the UK, or, if you are in the UK with an eligible visa such as the Start-up Visa or Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa, and you meet the requirements, you can switch into the Innovator Founder route.

What are the English language requirements?

Applicants must meet a minimum of CEFR Level B2 in English. This can be evidenced by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) with an approved provider; holding an English-taught academic qualification (with Ecctis confirmation if awarded overseas), or being a national of an English-speaking country recognised under UK immigration rules (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia).

How does visa extension work?

The Innovator Founder Visa is granted for an initial period of up to three years. If you continue to meet the endorsement and business operation criteria, you may apply for an extension. A fresh Endorsement Letter is required, confirming ongoing business growth and that you have complied with regular checkpoint meetings with the Endorsing Body.

How can I obtain permanent residence (ILR) through this route?

After three continuous years of living and running your endorsed business in the UK, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). To qualify, you must meet strict business performance and growth criteria, have no more than 180 days’ absence from the UK in the preceding 12 months, pass the Life in the UK Test, and demonstrate English language ability at B1 or higher. Following ILR, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship if you meet the further residency and good character requirements.

ARIS has extensive experience supporting all types of innovative entrepreneurs and their businesses under the Innovator Visa route. Whether you are a start-up founder or an established business owner, our lawyers are experts in immigration options for innovators and provide clear guidance through complex Home Office requirements and policies.



We pride ourselves on being approachable and proactive in understanding and meeting our clients’ needs. As part of our professional yet friendly service, we are a passionate team dedicated to delivering clear and reliable immigration advice to entrepreneurs and business owners. For legal advice, please call us on 020 3865 6219 or leave a message.