Innovator Visa is an opportunity for international entrepreneurs looking to invest in a business in the UK. If you’re considering this route, it’s crucial to secure endorsement from an approved endorsing body and have a minimum investment of £50,000 for your business.
For immediate assistance and guidance on the Innovator Visa application process, feel free to call us at 0333 0124 253. Whether in person, over the phone, or online, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality!
Innovator Visa Application
The Innovator Visa offers a promising avenue for experienced business professionals aiming to establish themselves in the UK. With a minimum investment of £50,000 and the endorsement of a recognized endorsing body for your business proposal, you can secure this visa. The initial three-year period can be extended for an additional three years, and some may even qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain after three years of lawful residency in the UK.
The eligibility criteria for the Innovator Visa are quite specific, ensuring that applicants have the necessary qualifications to embark on a business venture in the UK. As an applicant, being outside the EEA and Switzerland, aged 18 or older, possessing a minimum of £50,000 for investment, and securing endorsement for your business idea from an approved body are key requirements. Meeting the English language standard and fulfilling personal financial obligations are also crucial aspects of the application process.
What is the Difference Between an Innovator Visa and a Start Up Visa?
Start Up Visa Innovator Visa
- Applicants do not need funds to invest in their business Applicants need at least £50,000 to invest in their business
- Must not have previously set up a business in the UK Eligible if set up business in the UK in the past
- Successful applicants can stay in the UK for two years Successful applicants can stay in the UK for three years
- Can bring family members Can bring family members
- Can take on work outside of their business to support themselves Cannot undertake any work outside of business ventures
- Visa cannot be extended Visa can be extended
there are a number of requirements which an Innovator Visa applicant will need to fulfil in order for their application to be accepted.
Business Proposal
Your business proposal must fulfill the following criteria:
- Innovation:
The applicant should showcase a genuine and original business plan addressing a new or existing market need, contributing to the British economy and workforce. (Note: An applicant cannot join or invest in an already trading business). - Viability:
The applicant must demonstrate the essential skills, knowledge, and market awareness required to effectively manage the business. - Scalability:
The applicant should present evidence of potential job creation and growth in the business.
Endorsing Bodies for the Innovator Visa
A crucial requirement for the Innovator Visa is to obtain approval for your business idea from an endorsing body. Prior to initiating your Innovator Visa application, securing an endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body is essential.
Endorsing bodies meticulously assess the applicant’s business proposal to ascertain its alignment with the three pivotal requirements outlined above.
Upon approval of the business proposal, the endorsing body issues an endorsement letter to the Home Office, providing comprehensive details about the applicant and their business proposition.
Endorsing bodies must showcase a proven track record of supporting UK entrepreneurs, unless a new organization is established by another body with its established track record.
In the endorsement letter, the endorsing body clarifies whether they are supplying the investment funds or if the applicant possesses the funds and is prepared to invest in the business (or has already done so).
If you seek further details on the business proposal endorsement, feel free to contact us at 0333 0124 253.
What is the English Language Requirement?
Every Innovator Visa applicant must demonstrate proficiency at the B2 level of English, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It’s important to note that citizens of most native English-speaking countries are exempt from this requirement.
You won’t be required to meet English language criteria if you:
Hold a degree or higher qualification that was taught in English and is recognized by the UK NARIC.
Already possess a CEFR B2 level certificate in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Additionally, citizens of the following countries are exempt from this requirement:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- the Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- USA
All other Innovator Visa applicants must successfully pass a B2 English language test in reading, writing, speaking, and listening from an approved test provider to qualify for the Innovator Visa.
FAQ’s
How Long Can I Stay in the UK Under an Innovator Visa?
If your application is successful, you can reside in the UK for a period of three years.
Upon reaching the end of the three-year period, you have the option to extend your visa, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and remain actively involved in a business in the UK or wish to initiate a new venture.
It’s worth noting that if your business received endorsement in your initial Innovator Visa application, there’s no requirement for an additional £50,000 in investment funds to renew your Innovator Visa.
Additionally, when applying for an extension of your Innovator Visa, make sure to include any dependents who are currently on your Innovator visa.
Can I Switch to the Innovator Visa from Another UK Visa?
Yes, you can switch to the Innovator Visa from another UK visa.
To be eligible for the switch, you must obtain endorsement from an approved body, a requirement similar to the standard Innovator Visa application.
If you are already in the UK, you can switch from the following visas:
- Start-up visa
- Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa
- Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Visitor Visa (if the applicant came to the UK to secure funding with a supporting letter from an endorsement body)
If you are switching from a Student visa, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- The start date of your job is after the completion date of your course.
- You have been studying for a PhD for at least 24 months.
As long as you applied for the Innovator Visa before your current visa expired, you are allowed to remain in the UK until a decision is made.
Can my Family Join Me in the UK Under an Innovator Visa?
Certain family members can join you when you travel to the UK on an Innovator Visa. Your family members, classified as dependants, can include a partner, a child under 18, or a child over 18 if currently in the UK as a dependant.
To support your dependants, you must have £630 in savings per dependant, in addition to the £945 required to support yourself. It is essential to prove that you have the necessary funds in your bank account (or the dependant’s bank account) for at least 90 days before applying for the Innovator Visa.
Moreover, a person living in the UK can switch their visa to stay with you as a dependant. In such cases, the dependant must apply as a dependant partner or a dependant child.
Can I switch from a Graduate Entrepreneur Visa to an Innovator Visa?
Absolutely! Switching from a Graduate Entrepreneur Visa to an Innovator Visa is possible. The process is relatively straightforward, but you must meet specific eligibility requirements. This includes ongoing involvement in the management of a “successful” business that continues to thrive and contribute to the British economy. If you meet these criteria, you can smoothly transition to an Innovator Visa.
Can I switch from a Start-Up Visa to an Innovator Visa?
Certainly! You can switch from a Start-Up Visa to an Innovator Visa, provided your business remains successful and contributes to the British economy. It’s crucial to demonstrate to the Home Office that your business is still viable and supporting you, ensuring compliance with the requirements. If these conditions are met, the transition to an Innovator Visa is a viable option.
What can I do if my Innovator Visa Application is Refused?
If your application faces refusal, the Home Office will provide reasons for the refusal. If you believe the refusal lacks justification, you have the option to lodge an appeal against the decision.
Should you choose to pursue an appeal, Push Legal Service is here to guide you through the entire process. Feel free to contact us at 0333 0124 253 for further assistance.
How can Push Legal Services(PLS) help?
Our highly qualified and experienced lawyers specialise in various corporate visa applications, ensuring comprehensive support throughout your UK Innovator Visa application process. We strive to meet the rigorous standards set by the Home Office, offering the following services:
- Ensuring the adequacy of your documents before submitting your application.
- Creating a detailed bundle to present your application effectively to the Home Office.
- Providing a Letter of Representation to support your application.
- Maintaining communication with the Home Office throughout the entire process.
- Ensuring meticulous completion of your application form.
Our legal experts are also available to assist you in crafting a compelling business plan. Reach out to us today through our online contact form or call us at 0333 0124 253 to connect with one of our specialised immigration lawyers and initiate the process of completing your Innovator Visa application.