UK Innovator Business Immigration
In March 2019, the UK Home Office changed the regulations, replacing the former Entrepreneur visa with the Innovator visa (now Innovator Founder visa). Applicants must first submit a business plan that is innovative, viable, and scalable to an endorsing body. After obtaining endorsement, applicants can apply for the Innovator visa. The program requires applicants to invest at least £50,000 to independently set up and operate a new company. Upon meeting residency, language, and life in the UK test requirements, applicants can obtain indefinite leave to remain. The program has a short processing time of 4-6 months, with approval before investment. Children under 18 enjoy free public education, spouses can work freely in the UK, and by paying the immigration health surcharge, the whole family can access the NHS for free healthcare.
Program Highlights
Invest £50,000 to set up a new company
Fast approval in 4-6 months
Get approved before investing
Children enjoy free public education
Spouse can work freely in the UK
Application Process
Sign Contract
Sign the agency agreement
Prepare Business Plan
Prepare business plan and language proficiency evidence
Apply for Endorsement
Apply to an endorsing body and receive endorsement letter
Submit Application
Apply for Innovator visa, must enter UK within 3 months of approval
Complete Investment
Complete investment within 6 months of entry
Operate in UK
After 3 years, meet ILR conditions and apply for indefinite leave to remain
Eligibility Requirements
- Main Applicant
- Aged 18 or above, no criminal record, no tuberculosis
- Investment Requirement
- Applicant must invest at least £50,000 to set up and operate a new company
- Endorsement Requirement
- Obtain endorsement from an endorsing body
- Language Requirement
- IELTS for UKVI score of 5.5 in all components, or a bachelor's degree or higher from an English-speaking country
- Accompanying Family
- Children under 18 enjoy free public education, spouse can work freely in the UK
- Health Insurance
- Pay the immigration health surcharge for the whole family to access NHS free healthcare
Fee Breakdown
| Fee Item | Receiving Agency | Amount | Payment Timeline | Refund Policy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Consulting Service Fee | Contracting Company | 50,000 RMB per household | At contract signing | As per contract |
| Visa Application Fee | UK Home Office | £1,274 per person | When submitting visa application | Non-refundable if refused |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | NHS | As per latest official rates | When extending or switching visa | Partial refund may be available |
| Investment Capital | Self-operated Business | From £50,000 | Within 6 months of entry | Recoverable as business assets |
Frequently Asked Questions
References & Sources
- 1.UK Home Office Official Website
- 2.UK Innovation Agency
- 3.UK Department for Business and Trade
Author
AiEAC Immigration Consultant
Immigration Consultant