The Innovator Founder Visa is designed for experienced entrepreneurs who want to set up and run an innovative business in the UK. At TD Immigration, we provide comprehensive support through both the endorsement and Home Office stages to help you bring your business idea to life.

You can apply for the Innovator Founder Visa if you:

• Are aged 18 or over
• Have a genuine, original business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable
• Have had your business idea endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body
• Intend to play an active and central role in the day-to-day management and development of the business
• Meet the English language requirement (minimum CEFR level B2)
• Can show sufficient personal funds to support yourself during your stay (unless exempt)

1. Endorsement by a UK Endorsing Body
   
   • Your business idea must be assessed and endorsed by a Home Office-approved endorsing body
   • The idea must be new (not a business already trading), innovative, and show potential for growth and job creation
   • You must submit a detailed business plan and may be asked to attend an interview
   • Continued endorsement monitoring is required at 6, 12, and 24 months after visa grant

1. No Set Investment Threshold
   
   • There is no minimum investment requirement under the new rules
   • However, applicants must prove access to sufficient funding to develop their business as outlined in their business plan

1. English Language Requirement
   
   • You must demonstrate English language ability at level B2 (equivalent to IELTS 5.5 in each component), unless exempt

1. Financial Maintenance
   
   • You must have held at least £1,270 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days before applying, unless you’ve been living in the UK for 12 months or more

• The visa is granted for 3 years
• You may apply to settle (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 3 years if your business meets required criteria
• You can bring dependants (partner and children)
• You can work for your own business but not be employed outside of it
• No additional job or study outside your business is permitted

At TD Immigration, we provide expert, end-to-end support for the Innovator Founder Visa, including:

• Assessing your business idea and eligibility
• Preparing a strong business plan aligned with endorsement criteria
• Liaising with approved endorsing bodies on your behalf
• Managing the full Home Office visa application, including personal documentation and financial evidence
• Advising on routes to settlement and visa extensions

We help innovators turn ideas into reality — with the legal expertise to back it every step of the way.

Contact us today to book a free 30-minute consultation with a specialist immigration solicitor.