UK Innovator Founder Visa Solicitors
Empowering Entrepreneurs to Build and Innovate in the UK
The UK innovator founder visa is an exclusive route for entrepreneurs who are not currently based in the UK to establish or join a business venture in the country. This visa category was introduced by the Home Office in 2019 as a replacement for the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, with a focus on innovative and scalable businesses.
Learn MoreTo qualify for a UK Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must meet a range of specific requirements designed to ensure that they are capable of successfully establishing and managing a business that contributes to the UK economy. Below are the key criteria:
Applicants must propose an innovative business idea. They must demonstrate a unique offering or address a market gap not currently served
The idea must also be viable, meaning it shows strong potential for success based on realistic and achievable plans.
Scalability is equally critical. You should highlight the business's capacity for sustained growth and job creation in the UK market.
Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.
If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).
Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.
Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.
Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.
If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).
Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.
Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.
Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.
If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).
Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.
Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.
Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.
If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).
Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.
Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.
Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.
If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).
Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.
Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.
Extending your UK Innovator Visa can allow you to continue growing your business and contributing to the UK economy. To qualify for an extension, you must secure a continued endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body, showing that your business remains innovative, viable, and scalable. Additionally, you need to demonstrate that you have met key business progress milestones outlined in your original plan and continue to meet financial and residency conditions, including evidence of sufficient personal funds.
The application fee for extending your Innovator Visa is £1,486, and the typical processing time is around 8 weeks. By successfully extending your visa, you gain the opportunity to further develop your business, expand its reach, and potentially qualify for permanent settlement in the UK after meeting the necessary requirements.
Holders of a UK Innovator Visa can progress towards permanent residency, also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR), by meeting specific criteria. These include maintaining an endorsed business that continues to be innovative, viable, and scalable, as well as demonstrating financial stability and adherence to residency requirements, such as spending the majority of their time in the UK.
Typically, you become eligible to apply for ILR after staying in the UK for at least 3 years, provided all conditions are met. Achieving permanent residency grants significant benefits, including the ability to live, work, and travel freely within the UK without visa restrictions. This can offer a stable and secure foundation for you and your business.
Ali & Barrow Solicitors prides itself on providing exceptional legal services to clients seeking a UK Innovator Founder Visa. Our team of experienced solicitors specializes in immigration and business law and has a deep understanding of the requirements and criteria for this visa category.
We can assist you with the entire application process, from ensuring your eligibility to securing endorsement from an approved body.
Conducting a thorough review of your business idea and advising on its suitability for endorsement
Assisting with the development and refinement of a detailed business plan that meets endorsement criteria
Helping you secure an endorsement from an approved endorsing body
Preparing all necessary documents and forms required for the visa application
Liaising with relevant authorities on your behalf
Providing ongoing support and guidance throughout the visa application process
Preparing all necessary documents and forms required for the visa application
Assisting with any legal issues that may arise during the operation of your business in the UK
Our goal is to help you successfully obtain a UK Innovator Founder Visa so that you can bring your innovative business idea to life and contribute to the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape in the UK.
Don't let complex immigration laws and procedures hinder your dream of launching a successful business in the UK. Contact Ali & Barrow Solicitors today for expert legal assistance with your Innovator Founder Visa application. We will work closely with you to ensure that your application is strong and meets all requirements.
Contact us today©24 by Ali & Barrow Solicitors.| Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA Number: 805965
