UK
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the Golden Visa Program
What is the UK Innovator Founder Visa Program?
The UK Innovator Founder Visa is a premier route for global entrepreneurs who want to establish, scale, and lead innovative businesses in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
With a direct pathway to permanent residence and the potential for British citizenship, this visa is designed for ambitious founders and their families who want to turn big ideas into thriving UK-based ventures. Launched as a modern evolution of the previous Innovator Visa, the Innovator Founder Visa allows entrepreneurs from around the world to start and grow innovative, viable, and scalable businesses in the UK.
It offers not only the chance to live and work in the country but also a clear route to permanent residence (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

€300,000
Minimum Investment

185+ countries
Visa-free access

6-8 months
Processing time
The UK Innovator Founder Visa Program provides a wide range of lifestyle and financial advantages - A high quality of life with good climate, a safe environment, and modern infrastructure.
ENQUIRE NOWWhat are the key benefits?
Key Benefits of the UK Innovator Founder Visa
- Fast-Track to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Gain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in just three years, and become eligible for British citizenship after five years, including one year of ILR. Family members can apply for ILR after five years, followed by citizenship after another year. - Business Growth in a Global Hub
The UK offers unparalleled access to capital, talent, and markets. As one of the world’s top innovation ecosystems, it provides fertile ground for your business to grow and scale internationally. - Family Inclusion and Flexibility
Bring your spouse and children with you. They’ll have the right to live, work, and study in the UK—and even start their own ventures.
Why Invest in the UK Innovator Founder Program?
Why the UK is the Ideal Destination for Entrepreneurs
When it comes to launching or expanding a business abroad, the United Kingdom stands out as one of the most business-friendly environments in the world.
Its streamlined company setup process, supportive infrastructure, and stable regulatory system make it easy for founders to focus on innovation rather than bureaucracy.
In 2024 alone, over £63 billion in private investment flowed into UK businesses—a clear sign of investor confidence and long-term potential.
The UK also offers generous tax incentives for new residents and boasts one of the world’s strongest funding ecosystems, connecting entrepreneurs with venture capital, angel investors, and government-backed grants.
Add in world-class education—three of the world’s top ten universities are in the UK—and you have an unbeatable destination for your family and your future.
Simply put, the UK is where visionary entrepreneurs go global.
Pathway to UK Innovator Founder

Requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable, and that they have the resources to support themselves and their venture.
1. Adequate Funding
While there’s no mandatory minimum investment, applicants must prove they have sufficient funds to cover at least their first year of operations until the business becomes self-sustaining.
2. Business Eligibility
Your business must be:
- Innovative: Offers a new or unique product, service, or model that adds value to the UK market.
- Viable: Capable of long-term success and profitability.
- Scalable: Shows clear potential for growth and job creation.
- Endorsed: Must receive an endorsement from a UK-approved endorsing body.
3. English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level (CEFR) or higher.
4. Additional Criteria
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Clean criminal record and no immigration violations
- Health certificate confirming tuberculosis testing (if applicable)
- Proof of funds: Minimum of £1,270 in personal savings for initial stay
Who Can Apply
The UK Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for:
- Entrepreneurs with unique business ideas
- Experienced professionals launching innovative ventures
- Individuals relocating to the UK to establish and run a new company
Step-by-Step Application Process
Our guided process makes applying for your Innovator Founder Visa simple and stress-free:
Stage 0: Preparation and Agreement (2–4 months)
- Initial consultation and concept evaluation
- Refinement of your business idea
- Agreement on collaboration terms and timelines
- 50% initial payment
Stage 1: Business Plan Development
- Market research and feasibility analysis
- Development of financial forecasts and business strategy
- Review by our Advisory Board
- Professional CV update and interview preparation
Stage 2: Endorsement Application (4–8 weeks)
- Compilation of required documents
- Submission to an approved endorsing body
- Ongoing communication and response to recommendations
Stage 3: Visa Application (4–8 weeks)
- Preparation of complete UKVI documentation package
- Submission and representation before UK Visas and Immigration
- Final 50% payment
Estimated Total Timeline: 4–8 months
Government Fees
Fee Type |
Within UK |
Outside UK |
Endorsement Review Fee |
£1,200 |
£1,000 |
Visa Application Fee |
£1,191 |
£1,486 |
Immigration Health Surcharge (3 years) |
£3,105 |
£3,105 |
Total (Main Applicant) |
£5,496 |
£5,591 |
Family Members (per applicant, 3-year visa):
- Spouse/Partner: £4,296 (within UK) / £4,591 (outside UK)
- Child: £3,519 (within UK) / £3,814 (outside UK)
(All totals include visa application fees and IHS for the full three years.)
Europe’s Hidden Investment Gem
The United Kingdom (UK) stands as one of the most influential nations in the world - known for its powerful economy, cultural diversity, and high living standards.
It’s a global financial and innovation hub, home to world-class institutions, top-tier education, and a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether you’re a professional or a business owner, the UK offers endless growth opportunities, from the bustling streets of London and Manchester to the vibrant tech corridors of Cambridge and Edinburgh.
The UK combines tradition with progress, offering a stable political environment, excellent healthcare, and global connectivity that few countries can rival. For skilled profession
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key benefits of the Innovator Founder Visa?
This visa allows you to live and work in the UK while building your business. Major benefits include a fast-track to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in three years, eligibility for British citizenship after five years, family inclusion, and access to the UK’s vast investment and innovation ecosystem.
How long is the Innovator Founder Visa valid for?
The Innovator Founder Visa is typically granted for three years. After this period, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Is there a minimum investment amount required?
What type of business qualifies for the Innovator Founder Visa?
Your business idea must be:
- Innovative: Offering a unique concept or solution not already on the market.
- Viable: Capable of sustainable operation and profitability.
Scalable: With clear potential for growth and job creation. It must also receive an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
Can I bring my family with me to the UK?
Yes. Your spouse or partner and dependent children under 18 can accompany you to the UK. They will have the right to live, work, and study during your stay and may also qualify for ILR and citizenship after the required period.
How long does the Innovator Founder Visa process take?
The overall process takes around 4–8 months depending on preparation time, endorsement review, and UKVI processing. Our team ensures all documentation and steps are managed efficiently to meet this timeline.
What is the cost of applying for the Innovator Founder Visa?
For the main applicant, government fees total approximately £5,500, including endorsement, application, and health surcharge fees. Additional fees apply for family members depending on where they apply from (inside or outside the UK).
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY
Your affordable and flexible route to residency.
Secure your residency by investment and enjoy life in one of the world’s most culturally rich and economically dynamic countries.
Contact High Net Worth Immigration today for a free consultation on your Visa application and investment options.