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The innovator visa, now called the innovator founder visa, is a type of work permit in the UK. It's for experienced entrepreneurs who want to start a business there. This visa replaced the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa in 2019. The UK government made this change to make it easier for innovative business ideas and talented individuals to come to the UK and help the economy grow.
If you have a special and original business idea supported by an authorized organization, you could apply for the Innovator Founder visa to relocate to the UK. However, you must fulfill some additional criteria before you submit your application.
The UK Innovator Visa is a visa category for innovative entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand an existing business in the UK. Here are some key points about the UK Innovator Visa:
Applicants must have a genuine, credible business idea or be the founder, or employee of an innovative start-up or established business. They need to demonstrate an endorsement from an approved body like an incubator or accelerator.
Applicants need access to at least £50,000 in investment funds to support their business idea or start-up in the UK. The funds can come from personal savings or investments.
The visa is initially valid for 2 years and 4 months. After this period, applicants can apply to settle permanently in the UK through the Innovator visa route if they meet certain criteria like funds in business and number of employees.
Visa holders are free to dedicate their full-time efforts to developing their business and aren't confined to working for just one employer, unlike other entrepreneur visas. After 3 years, visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if they meet the settlement requirements.
It is a visa for entrepreneurs and start-up founders to establish innovative businesses in the UK.
Here are some key points about the UK Innovator Visa:
Applicants must have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea that is approved by an endorsing body.
A minimum investment of £50,000 is required.
Applicants need an endorsement from an approved body that will review the business idea.
The visa is valid for up to 3 years and can be extended.
After 3 years, visa holders can apply for settlement in the UK.
Innovator Visa holders can work for their own business but not for another employer.
Visa holders can bring their family members to the UK.
Applicants must meet the English language requirement.