UK Innovator Visa 2026: Complete Guide for Entrepreneurs

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What is the UK Innovator Visa?

The UK Innovator Visa is designed for experienced businesspeople seeking to establish an innovative business in the UK. This visa route replaces the previous Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa and offers a pathway to permanent residence for entrepreneurs with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas.

Key Requirements

To qualify for the Innovator Visa, you must:

  • Have an innovative business idea that is endorsed by an approved endorsing body
  • Have at least £50,000 in investment funds
  • Meet English language requirements (CEFR Level B2)
  • Have sufficient maintenance funds (£1,270)
  • Prove your business is innovative, viable, and scalable

Endorsing Bodies

Your business idea must be endorsed by one of the UK government-approved endorsing bodies, including:

  • UK Endorsing Services (UKES)
  • Innovator International
  • Envestors
  • The Global Entrepreneurs Programme
  • Tech Nation

Application Process

  1. Develop Your Business Plan: Create a comprehensive business plan that demonstrates innovation, viability, and scalability.
  2. Secure Endorsement: Apply to an endorsing body and present your business idea.
  3. Gather Documents: Prepare all required documentation including proof of funds, English language certificate, and endorsement letter.
  4. Submit Application: Apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
  5. Biometric Appointment: Attend your biometric appointment at a visa application center.
  6. Decision: Wait for a decision, which typically takes 3-8 weeks.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

After 3 years on the Innovator Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet certain criteria, including:

  • Your business has been actively trading for at least 3 years
  • You’ve met at least two of seven criteria set by your endorsing body
  • Your business is sustainable and shows growth potential

How TorlyAI Can Help

TorlyAI provides AI-powered assessment tools to evaluate your eligibility for the UK Innovator Visa. Our platform analyzes your business plan, innovation factors, and scalability potential to give you insights into your chances of success.

Ready to start your journey? Use our free visa assessment tool to evaluate your eligibility today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UK Innovator Founder Visa?

The UK Innovator Founder Visa (2026) is an immigration route for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish an innovative, viable, and scalable business in the United Kingdom. It requires a minimum investment of £50,000 and endorsement from an approved body. (Previously called "Innovator Visa" before 2023 reform.)

Source: UK Home Office

How much does the UK Innovator Founder Visa cost?

Total costs (2026):
  • Visa application fee: £1,191
  • Immigration Health Surcharge: £3,105 (3 years)
  • Minimum business investment: £50,000
  • Endorsement body fee: £500 - £1,500
  • English language test: £150 - £200
Minimum Total: £54,796 - £55,796

Source: UK Home Office

How long does the UK Innovator Founder Visa application take?

Total Timeline: 18-24 weeks
  • Stage 1 (Endorsement): 6-8 weeks
  • Stage 2 (Visa Application): 12-16 weeks
TorlyAI helps you prepare endorsement documents in days, not weeks.

What are the key requirements for UK Innovator Founder Visa?

You must meet ALL of these criteria:
  • At least 18 years old
  • Innovative business idea new to UK market
  • £50,000 minimum investment
  • Endorsement from approved body
  • English language (B2 level)
  • Sufficient personal savings (£1,270+)
  • Business experience or relevant skills

Which endorsing bodies are authorized for UK Innovator Founder Visa?

4 authorized endorsing bodies (2026):
  1. UK Endorsing Services (UKES) - General innovative businesses across all sectors
  2. Innovator International - Scalable, globally-focused businesses with international expansion plans
  3. Envestors Limited - Investment-ready businesses seeking equity funding
  4. The Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP) - Government-backed programme for tech entrepreneurs (invitation-only)

Note: Many previously authorized endorsing bodies (including Tech Nation, Innovate UK, universities, and accelerators) are now legacy organizations that only maintain existing endorsees and do not accept new applications.

TorlyAI recommends the best fit based on your industry and business stage.

Need personalized guidance for your UK Innovator Founder Visa application?

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