Applicants are required to secure an endorsement, demonstrating that their business concept is not only innovative and viable but also scalable, and that they have been instrumental in its creation or development.
The initial step in pursuing the Innovator Founder visa entails obtaining an endorsement from a Home Office-recognized body. The Home Office has a designated list of bodies permitted to endorse applicants for this visa category. The current list includes: – Envestors Limited – UK Endorsing Services – Innovator International – The Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP) For applicants who have previously entered the Innovator visa scheme prior to April 13, 2023, bodies previously recognized under the legacy Innovator route may still issue endorsements. These legacy bodies, however, are limited to endorsing only for business ideas that have been part of the applicant’s prior submissions.
To secure an Innovator Founder visa, applicants need to score a total of 70 points, divided as follows: New Business Criteria (30 points for business plan, 20 points for innovation):
Create or significantly contribute to a business plan.
Play an active role in executing the plan.
Schedule at least two progress assessments with the endorsing entity.
Be a sole or key founding team member.
Innovator Criteria (50 points for business operation and achievements):
Continue a business previously endorsed or successfully reviewed.
Demonstrate substantial business progress.
Manage the business actively.
Mandatory Criteria (20 points for language and finances):
Prove English proficiency (B2 level).
Show funds of £1,270 held for 28 days (unless exempt due to current UK residency).
| Applicant Type | Application Fee (Outside the UK) | Application Fee to Extend/Switch (In the UK) |
| Main Innovator Founder Applicant | £1,036 | £1,292 |
| Dependent Partner and Children | £1,036 per person | £1,292 per person |
