The UK Innovator Founder Visa Program is a visa scheme designed for experienced businessmen who wish to set up or run a business in the UK. This initiative aims to attract global talent and encourage innovation and growth prospects in the UK's economy. The visa grants residency for three years, which could be extended or lead to permanent residency.
GBP 50,000 Minimum Investment into a Start-Up Business Venture
New business must be innovative, viable and scalable - showing potential to meet market needs, achieve business plan and support growth & job creation.
4-6 months
Spouse and unmarried children under 18 years
The United Kingdom is a rich amalgamation of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is well-known for its diverse and dynamic landscapes that range from the rolling hills of the English countryside to the rugged Scottish Highlands. This nation has been a significant global player for centuries, with influences spreading across the world through its language, literature, science, and its vast former empire.
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The Innovator Founder Visa program extends the opportunity for promising entrepreneurs to bring your unique ideas to the UK and turn them into scalable and successful ventures. The program aims to foster the creation of innovative startups and bolster economic growth. With access to world-class resources, rich entrepreneurial culture, and the UK's thriving startup ecosystem, the Innovator Founder Visa program is the right platform if you are an aspiring entrepreneur, helping you to launch and grow your venture on a global scale.
Ensures that your business proposal receives endorsement from a Home Office approved body
Provides direct access to the UK market which can be beneficial for any start-up
Robust and supportive ecosystem for start-ups, enhancing your venture’s chances of success
Favourable business environment and robust financial sector
Steady flow of highly skilled talent with world-class infrastructure
Serves as a gateway to expand operations in the European market
Your business proposal receives comprehensive scrutiny and endorsement from a Home Office approved body, which enhances your business's credibility and prospects for success.
The UK is one of the world's leading economies, providing a diverse and prosperous market for your business.
The country has one of the most dynamic and supportive startup ecosystems in the world, including accelerators, incubators, and a rich network of experienced entrepreneurs and mentors.
Offers a business-friendly environment with a transparent regulatory system, strong intellectual property rights, and a robust financial sector.
The UK is home to leading universities and research institutions, providing a steady supply of highly skilled talent, as well as access to world-class infrastructure and technological resources.
The UK's strategic location provides potential access to the broader European market, offering opportunities for expansion and market diversification. Despite Brexit, the UK maintains strong economic ties with the European Union, which can be advantageous for businesses.
The UK Innovator Visa Program is designed for experienced businesspeople seeking to establish a business in the UK. This program needs a minimum investment of GBP 50,000, and applicants must have their business or business idea endorsed by an approved body.
Self-Funded
This is a good investment option for founders who have personal savings or have raised money from family and friends. You will need to have at least GBP 50,000 in available funds to invest in your business.
Venture Capital
You can secure venture capital funding from an approved Venture Capital firm. This requires a robust business plan and pitch to attract investors. The venture capital funding can provide the necessary investment for the visa application. The VC firm will require equity in the business in exchange for their investment. The equity stake may vary depending on the valuation of the business and the amount invested, but expect to give up a substantial percentage of your business.
Angel Investors
Similar to venture capital, founders can secure investment from angel investors who are high-net-worth individuals looking to invest in startups. The advantage of this approach is that angel investors often provide valuable expertise and contacts as well as funding. Angel investors will typically also require equity in the business. The amount of equity will depend on the valuation of the business and the amount invested.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding platforms can be another viable way to raise the necessary funds. This could be through equity crowdfunding, where individuals invest in your business in return for equity, or reward-based crowdfunding, where people give money in return for rewards related to your product or service. The cost of this method varies depending on the platform used, but platforms usually charge a percentage fee on the funds raised.
Loans and Grants
Certain governmental and non-governmental organizations offer loans and grants to businesses that meet specific criteria. This could be a suitable way to raise funds, but it may be challenging to secure a loan or grant of the full GBP 50,000 required for the visa. Loans need to be paid back with interest, while grants are typically free but may come with certain requirements or conditions.
Additional Fees: In addition to the investment, applicants are required to pay government fees, due diligence fees, and legal fees associated with the application process. Please speak with our consultant for more details.
Do you have any queries? Find answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding the citizenship or residency program offered by this country.
Yes, you may be able to switch to an Innovator Visa from another visa category if you meet the eligibility criteria. Specific requirements and procedures should be checked with a legal expert or on the official government website.
The process is the same as in any other country. You will need to apply online, provide your biometric information, and submit all the necessary documents. You also need to pay the healthcare surcharge and the visa fee.
Yes, you may be eligible to apply for settlement (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) once you’ve been in the UK for 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa.
You may be eligible for permanent settlement in the UK if you hold certain visas such as the Skilled Worker visa, the Tier 2 (General), T2 Minister of Religion, or Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visas.
