Overview

You can apply for an Innovator visa if:

· you want to set up or run a business in the UK

· you’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland

· you meet the other eligibility requirements

· your business or business idea has been endorsed by an approved body

 

Funds you’ll need

You must have at least £50,000 in investment funds if you want to set up a new business. You do not need funds if either:

· your business is already established and has been endorsed for an earlier visa

· you’ve changed your business and already agreed it with your endorsing body

 

Getting endorsed

You must be able to show that your business idea is:

· new - you cannot join or invest in a business that is already trading

· innovative - you must have an original business idea which is different from anything else on the market

· viable, with potential for growth

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How long it takes to get a visa

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

 

How long you can stay

You can stay for 3 years if you:

· come to the UK on an Innovator visa

· switch to this visa from another visa

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What you can and cannot do

You can:

· set up a business or several businesses

· work for your business - this includes being employed as a director, or self-employed as a member of a business partnership

· bring family members with you

You cannot:

· do any work outside your business, for example work where you’re

employed by another business

· work as a doctor or dentist in training

· work as a professional sportsperson, for example a sports coach

· get public funds

 

Eligibility

Before you apply you need to have your business or business idea assessed by an approved Endorsement body. They will provide you with an endorsement letter if your business is viable.

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You must also:

· meet the English language requirement

· be at least 18 years old

· be able to prove that you have enough personal savings to support yourself while you’re in the UK