Who is the Innovator Founder visa for?
The Innovator Founder route replaced the Innovator visa. It is for founders who have created, or significantly contributed to, an innovative business idea and will take an active role in running and developing the business in the UK.
Key requirements
- You must be at least 18 and meet the relevant immigration requirements.
- An approved endorsing body must assess your proposal and issue an endorsement letter before your visa application.
- Your business must be innovative, viable and scalable, supported by a realistic plan, suitable resources and credible growth potential.
- You must normally demonstrate English at CEFR B2 level in reading, writing, speaking and listening, unless an exemption applies.
Funding and supporting documents
There is no blanket £50,000 minimum investment requirement for a new Innovator Founder application. You must still demonstrate sufficient funding for your business and explain its source.
Where maintenance evidence is required, the main applicant must hold at least £1,270 for 28 consecutive days. This is separate from business investment. Applicants applying inside the UK after at least 12 months with permission do not need to show these maintenance funds. Additional requirements apply to dependants.
Documents normally include your endorsement, passport and English evidence, plus any required financial evidence, tuberculosis test results and certified translations. The exact documents depend on your circumstances.
Your stay, family and future plans
Permission is normally granted for three years. You must attend progress meetings with your endorsing body at 12 and 24 months. Eligible partners and children can apply as dependants.
Extensions require continued eligibility and a further endorsement assessment. If endorsement is withdrawn, your permission may be shortened.
Frequently asked questions
Can I settle after three years?
You may qualify for indefinite leave to remain after three qualifying years on the Innovator Founder or Innovator route. You need a new endorsement confirming that your business meets at least two specified success criteria, alongside the other business, residence, suitability and Life in the UK requirements. Settlement is not automatic.
Does my partner also qualify after three years?
A dependant partner normally needs five qualifying years and must meet their own settlement requirements. Children have separate eligibility rules.
Does endorsement guarantee a visa?
No. Endorsement supports your application, but the Home Office must also be satisfied that you meet all relevant visa requirements.
Discuss your plans
Contact Leon Advisers about your Innovator Founder plans: visa@leonadvisers.com or +44 7561 523 434.
Contact our team or explore our process.
Official guidance
Visa overview · Eligibility · Immigration Rules · Family settlement
General information only; requirements depend on your circumstances and may change. Last reviewed: 17 October 2026.