Start-up visa
For early-stage entrepreneurs with an endorsed business idea; closed to new applicants and replaced by Innovator Founder.
The Start-up visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. This guide explains who it was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open UK route that fits you.
Who the Start-up visa is for
For early-stage entrepreneurs with an endorsed business idea; closed to new applicants and replaced by Innovator Founder.
Did not lead directly to settlement; intended to switch to Innovator Founder.
Start-up visa - eligibility criteria
- Route closed to new applicants from April 2023
- Previously required an endorsement from an approved body
- Business had to be innovative, viable and scalable
- Replaced by the Innovator Founder route
- Limited exceptions for some existing endorsements
Start-up visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Start-up visa (United Kingdom) is Closed (was ~£402 outside / £509 inside), with an indicative processing time of Not applicable (route effectively closed). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Closed to most new applicants |
| Length of stay | Was 2 years, non-extendable |
| Work rights | Work on your business plus other employment was allowed |
| Study rights | Study was permitted |
| Government fee | Closed (was ~£402 outside / £509 inside) |
| Processing time | Not applicable (route effectively closed) |
| Route to PR | Did not lead directly to settlement; intended to switch to Innovator Founder. |
Pathway & next steps
Did not lead directly to settlement; intended to switch to Innovator Founder.
Many applicants also compare Innovator Founder · Innovator Founder visa, Global Talent · Global Talent visa. 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 Start-up visa pitfalls we fix
Start-up visa - frequently asked questions
Is the Start-up visa still open?
No - the Start-up visa (United Kingdom) is closed to new applicants. Did not lead directly to settlement; intended to switch to Innovator Founder.
Who can apply for the Start-up visa?
For early-stage entrepreneurs with an endorsed business idea; closed to new applicants and replaced by Innovator Founder.
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