Home Office Launches Innovator Founder Visa
The Home Office has recently launched the Innovator Founder visa for those with an innovative idea who want to set up a business in the UK. This replaces the former “innovative visa” route and makes it easier than ever to apply. Major changes include:
No minimum investment requirement
The endorsing body only needs to check in twice
Secondary employment may be acceptable
This route now leads to settlement
Eligibility
You must:
Have a business or business idea that is endorsed by an approved body
Meet the English language requirement at level B2
Be at least 18 years old
Have at least £1,270 in savings to support yourself while you are in the UK
You may be able to bring your partner and children as dependents.
If successful
You can stay for 3 years. It doesn’t matter if you come to the UK on an Innovator Founder visa or switch this this visa from a different visa. After 3 years, you can apply to extend your stay or potentially apply for settlement. There is no limit on the number of times you can extend your visa.
Fees
Outside the UK – £1,036 for you and £1,036 for each dependent family member Extending or switching from inside the UK – £1,292 for you and £1,292 for each dependent family member. You’ll also need to pay the immigration healthcare surcharge and show that you have at least £1,270 to support yourself.
Processing time
You will usually receive a decision within 3 weeks if you’re outside the UK, and 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK. You may be able to pay for a faster decision.
Our experienced team of immigration advisors is ready to help you with your Innovator Founder application. Contact us today for more information at 0208 995 3556 or info@descartessolicitors.co.uk.
By Tiffany Carpenter
05/05/2023