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Innovator Founder Visa

We help founders present a strong and credible innovation case, shape your business narrative, and prepare a clear endorsement stage portfolio.

What is the Innovator Founder Visa?

The Innovator Founder Visa enables entrepreneurs to establish new, innovative UK-based businesses. It replaced earlier schemes such as the Innovator and Start-up visas. Applicants need a business concept that is novel, economically viable, and capable of growth, with plans to manage operations directly.

Key Permissions

Successful applicants may:

  • Establish and operate their own UK business as director, self-employed individual, or partner
  • Pursue secondary skilled work employment outside the primary venture
  • Transition to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after three years if the business remains active and sustainable
  • Bring dependants (spouse or partner and children) under sponsorship

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate:

  • A business idea that is new, innovative, viable, and scalable
  • Endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body
  • Minimum age of 18 with standard immigration clearance
  • £1,270 in savings (for those applying externally or having lived in the UK less than 12 months) held for 28 consecutive days
  • Clear business strategy showing active UK business involvement

Critical Conditions

The business cannot be already trading; endorsement precedes the visa application. The initial visa validity period is three years, requiring demonstrated active trading and sustainable operations for renewal.

At NARA Solicitors, we work with you to shape your business narrative, refine your innovation evidence, and prepare a clear endorsement stage portfolio. We guide founders through every step of the application process.

Trusted by Over
1.6K+ Satisfied
Clients

NARA Solicitors has helped individuals and businesses across the UK with immigration, family law and sponsor licence matters. Our clients trust us for clear advice, dedicated support and results that make a difference.

“We had a great experience with NARA Solicitors for our Done Media Concept & Branding Services licence application. Their clear, step-by-step guidance made the entire process simple and stress-free. They ensured every document was fully prepared and submitted correctly. A special thanks to Nandini, our case worker, for her constant support and professionalism. We highly recommend NARA Solicitors for reliable and efficient legal assistance.”

AA

Adedayo Ayoade

Business Owner · Done Media Concept & Branding Services

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