Innovator Founder visa
For experienced entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK.
The Innovator Founder visa is a UK business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£1,274 (outside) / £1,590 (inside); IHS ~£1,035/year) and processing time (~3 weeks (plus endorsement)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Innovator Founder visa is for
For experienced entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK.
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 3 years if endorsement criteria are met.
Innovator Founder visa - eligibility criteria
- Business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body
- Business is innovative, viable and scalable
- Active and day-to-day involvement in the business
- Knowledge of English at level B1
- Maintenance funds to support yourself
Innovator Founder visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Innovator Founder visa (United Kingdom) is ~£1,274 (outside) / £1,590 (inside); IHS ~£1,035/year, with an indicative processing time of ~3 weeks (plus endorsement). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | 3 years per grant (renewable) |
| Work rights | Work for your own endorsed business; some other employment allowed |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~£1,274 (outside) / £1,590 (inside); IHS ~£1,035/year |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks (plus endorsement) |
| Route to PR | Leads to settlement (ILR) after 3 years if endorsement criteria are met. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 3 years if endorsement criteria are met.
Many applicants also compare Global Talent · Global Talent visa, GBM Expansion Worker · Global Business Mobility - UK Expansion Worker visa, ILR · Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement). Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Innovator Founder visa pitfalls we fix
Innovator Founder visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Innovator Founder visa cost?
The Innovator Founder visa government fee is ~£1,274 (outside) / £1,590 (inside); IHS ~£1,035/year. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the Innovator Founder visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 weeks (plus endorsement). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Innovator Founder visa lead to permanent residence?
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 3 years if endorsement criteria are met.
Can I work on the Innovator Founder visa?
Work rights: Work for your own endorsed business; some other employment allowed.
Who can apply for the Innovator Founder visa?
For experienced entrepreneurs establishing an innovative, viable and scalable business in the UK.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority