How can I start a business in the UK?
For many entrepreneurs, international students, and inventors seeking a worldwide start-up, establishing a business in the UK is a dream. The UK continues to be one of the greatest locations in the world to establish and grow a business because of its strong economy, welcoming environment for investors, and vibrant start-up scene. The Innovator Founder Visa has grown to be the most popular choice for individuals looking for a visa pathway that enables them to start a brand-new, creative company.
The UK Innovator Founder Visa offers ambitious entrepreneurs a great way to start and expand a new firm in one of the most dynamic economies in the world. At Adam Bernard Solicitors, we collaborate closely with students, overseas innovators, and early-stage entrepreneurs who wish to develop their concepts into profitable UK-based businesses. This article describes what the Innovator Founder visa is, how it has evolved, what you need to do to get started, how overseas students can apply, and how much it will cost.
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What Is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder visa is intended for entrepreneurs who wish to start a brand-new, creative, and expandable company in the United Kingdom. This visa, in contrast to earlier pathways, promotes both innovation and a company’s long-term potential, making it appropriate for founders with a well-defined vision and a well-organised plan.
For sincere entrepreneurs who wish to actively participate in the development of a UK business, this visa replaces the previous Innovator and Start-up visas, simplifying the application procedure and creating more chances.
What Changed? Key Improvements to the Innovator Founder Visa
The new route introduced several significant changes that make it more accessible and founder-friendly:
1. Removal of the Minimum £50,000 Investment Requirement
The elimination of the prior required £50,000 fundraising requirement is one of the major benefits. You still need to prove that your company can begin and run profitably, but you are no longer required to prove a certain financial threshold.
2. More Flexibility to Work
In the past, holders of Innovator visas were limited to working solely on the business that was approved. Additional employment is now permitted under the Innovator Founder visa, as long as it is skilled work (RQF Level 3 or above). This is especially useful for early-stage entrepreneurs that require extra revenue as the company expands.
3. Consolidation of Routes
The previous Start-Up visa is no longer available. Now, all new business owners apply through the Innovator Founder method, which streamlines the process and provides a more direct route to settlement.
4. Direct Pathway to Settlement
After three years, founders may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if the company reaches specific growth and innovation benchmarks.
How to Start a Business in the UK Under the Innovator Founder Visa
To apply successfully, you must go through three main stages:
1. Develop a Genuine, Innovative Business Idea
- Innovative – different from anything already available in the market
- Viable – supported by a clear business plan and financial logic
- Scalable – capable of growth, expansion, and job creation
2. Obtain an Endorsement
An endorsement from a recognised UK endorsing body is required. These companies evaluate your business proposal and make sure it satisfies the requirements for innovation, viability, and scalability.
Endorsing bodies typically expect:
- A detailed business plan
- Market analysis
- Evidence of entrepreneurial skills
A credible commercialisation strategy
3. Submit Your Visa Application
Once endorsed, you can submit your application to the Home Office. You will need to show:
- English-language proficiency (B2 level)
- Adequate personal maintenance funds (if applying from overseas)
- A valid endorsement letter
Your endorsement will be reviewed again at 12 months and 24 months, so your business must demonstrate progress.
How International Students Can Start a Business Under This Visa
Many international students in the UK dream of starting a business while studying or after graduation. The Innovator Founder visa provides a clear pathway, but there are a few things to understand:
1. You Cannot Formally Trade on a Student Visa
You can research, network, and draft a business plan while studying in the UK, but you won’t be able to operate a business legally until you change your visa category.
2. You Can Switch to the Innovator Founder Visa from Inside the UK
This is a major advantage for students. If you have:
- A viable business plan
- Endorsement
- Evidence of your entrepreneurial capability
You can switch from a Student Visa without leaving the country.
3. You Can Work Part-Time Under the Visa
Students switching to the Innovator Founder path can sustain themselves while expanding their business because this visa permits skilled supplemental employment.
Our team specialised in assisting students in comprehending their options, preparing paperwork, and making a seamless transition from student to entrepreneur.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs vary depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK. Typical expenses include:
Government Fees
- Visa application fee: approx. £1,036–£1,292 depending on location
- Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year
Endorsing Body Fees
These vary, typically £1,500–£4,000 depending on the organisation and the support package.
Legal and Business Support Costs
Professional help significantly increases your chances of success. At Adam Bernard Solicitors, we offer:
- Business plan refinement
- Legal advice
- Endorsing body preparation
- Visa application handling
How Adam Bernard Solicitors Can Guide You
Our firm specialises in UK business immigration, with deep experience helping founders, innovators, and students launch companies through the Innovator Founder visa.
We provide:
- End-to-end visa guidance
- Support through endorsement and Home Office applications
- Ongoing compliance advice for renewals and settlement
Starting a business in the UK is an exciting—and achievable—journey. With the right legal guidance, a strong business plan, and clear understanding of the Innovator Founder visa requirements, you can turn your idea into a thriving UK enterprise.
If you’re ready to begin your entrepreneurial journey, Adam Bernard Solicitors is here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Innovator Founder Visa in the UK?
The Innovator Founder Visa is a UK visa for entrepreneurs who want to start an innovative, scalable business. You need an approved business idea and endorsement from an authorised UK endorsing body.
How do I start a business in the UK as a foreigner?
To start a business in the UK as an overseas entrepreneur, you need the right visa—usually the Innovator Founder Visa. You must create a business plan, get endorsement, and then apply to the Home Office.
Can international students start a business in the UK?
International students cannot run or trade a business while on a Student visa.
However, they can prepare a business plan, do research, build their idea, and then switch to the Innovator Founder Visa after endorsement.
Can I switch from a Student Visa to the Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes. Students can switch from inside the UK. You must show:
- An innovative business idea
- Endorsement
- Business plan
- English level B2
This is one of the most popular routes for graduates.
How much money do I need for the Innovator Founder Visa?
There is no minimum investment requirement.
However, you must show you have enough funds to start your business realistically and support yourself financially.
Do I need £50,000 for the Innovator Founder Visa?
No. The old requirement has been removed.
Many people still search for “Innovator founder visa £50,000”, but the new rules do not require fixed investment funds.
What type of business qualifies for the Innovator Founder Visa?
Businesses that are:
- Innovative (new idea not available in the market)
- Viable (you can realistically run it)
- Scalable (job creation, expansion potential)
Common industries include tech, AI, apps, sustainability, education, and digital services.
Do I need a business plan for the Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes. A detailed and realistic business plan is essential.
Endorsing bodies will review innovation, viability, scalability, financials, and long-term strategy.
What are the government fees for the Innovator Founder Visa?
Typical costs include:
- Visa fee: £1,036–£1,292
- Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year
You must also pay endorsing body fees and any professional/legal support fees.
Can Adam Bernard Solicitors help with endorsement?
Yes, we:
- Review and improve your business plan
- Prepare you for interviews
- Guide you through endorsement requirements
- Handle the full visa application
- Support you until approval
