Launch your innovative business in the UK. The fastest route to settlement (ILR) for experienced entrepreneurs with a scalable business concept.
The Innovator Founder Visa replaced the old Innovator and Start-up routes. It is designed for business people who want to set up and run an innovative business in the UK. Unlike the Global Talent Visa (which is about you), this visa is about your business idea.
2026 Insight: The specific £50,000 investment requirement is gone, but scrutiny is higher. Endorsing Bodies now rigorously test the "Genuine Founder" rule. You must prove you have sufficient funds to deliver your plan.
To secure endorsement, your business plan must pass the strict IVS test administered by an approved Endorsing Body:
Many entrepreneurs are unsure which route is best. Here is the comparison:
| Feature | Innovator Founder | Global Talent (Business) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Your Business Idea | Your Career History |
| Endorsement | Commercial Endorsing Body | Tech Nation (usually) |
| Secondary Work | Allowed (skilled roles only) | Fully Flexible (Any work) |
| Settlement (ILR) | 3 Years | 3 Years (Talent) / 5 Years (Promise) |
| Dependents | Yes | Yes |
We stress-test your concept against the Innovation and Scalability criteria before you write a single word.
Crafting a 20-30 page compliant business plan including 3-year financial projections (P&L, Cashflow).
Matching your sector (FinTech, EdTech, GreenTech, etc.) with the right Endorsing Body.
Mock interviews to ensure you can defend your business plan and financials confidently.
The exact structure required by Endorsing Bodies. Don't get rejected due to formatting errors.
FinTech Founder
"The business plan requirements were demanding. GlobalTalentVisa.Org UK helped refine my financial model and pitch deck. We secured endorsement from Envestors on the first attempt."
GreenTech Entrepreneur
"I had the technology but no business background. They built the commercial roadmap for my product, which proved 'Scalability' to the endorser. I'm now setting up my HQ in Manchester."
No, the mandatory £50k requirement was removed in 2023. However, you must demonstrate to the Endorsing Body that you have access to sufficient funds to execute your business plan. If your plan says you need £100k to build an app, you must show where that money is coming from.
Generally, no. This visa is for founders starting a new business. You can have co-founders, but you cannot simply invest in or join a business that is already trading unless your contribution constitutes a significant, new, innovative pivot.
The "Viability" check minimizes this risk, but business failure does not automatically revoke your visa immediately. However, you will need to re-endorse with a new idea or switch visa categories when your next check-in point (12 or 24 months) arrives.
From business plan to endorsement, we guide you through the complex Innovator Founder process.
Don't miss out! Get a Free Eligibility Assessment for the UK Global Talent Visa before you go.
Quick check based on your field and experience.
Check My Eligibility NowFind out if you qualify for the UK Global Talent Visa — within 24 hours.
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