Study
Student
Study a full-time course at a UK university or college that holds a student sponsor licence.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £558
BusinessUK Innovator Founder Visa
Set up and run an innovative, scalable business in the UK, with your business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body.
- Processing
- Usually within 3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £1,357
- Visa length
- 3 years
Overview
The Innovator Founder visa (which replaced the Innovator and Start-up visas) is for entrepreneurs who want to start a new business in the UK. Your idea must be new, innovative, viable and scalable, and it must be endorsed by a Home Office–approved endorsing body before you apply.
There is no fixed minimum investment, but you must show the endorsing body you have enough funding for your plans. You will meet the endorsing body after 12 and 24 months to show progress. You can also take other skilled work alongside running your business.
We help you test whether your idea is likely to be endorsed, shape your business plan and financial evidence, prepare the endorsement application, and then handle the visa application for you and your family.
Who can apply
The main requirements. A counsellor will check your situation in detail.
- Aged 18 or over
- A new, innovative, viable and scalable business idea (you cannot join a business that is already trading)
- An endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body
- English at the required level (an approved test, a UK qualification or an English-taught degree)
- At least £1,270 in savings held for 28 consecutive days before you apply
Documents you’ll need
A typical list. We’ll give you a personal checklist in your consultation.
- Valid passport
- Endorsement letter from your endorsing body
- Business plan and evidence of the funding for your plans
- Proof of English language ability
- Bank statements showing £1,270 held for 28 days
- Tuberculosis test results (required for applicants from Bangladesh)
Fees & timing
| Visa application fee (outside the UK) | £1,357 |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee (inside the UK) | £1,693 |
| Endorsement fee (paid to the endorsing body) | £1,000 |
| Progress meetings at 12 and 24 months | £500 each |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
| Example: 3-year visa from outside the UK (visa £1,357 + endorsement £1,000 + IHS £3,105) | £5,462 |
- Processing time
- Usually within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK; around 8 weeks from inside the UK. Allow extra time for the endorsement first.
- Visa length
- 3 years, then extendable. Settlement possible after 3 years if your business meets the requirements.
- Government fee
- £1,357 from outside the UK (£1,693 inside the UK), plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year). Endorsing bodies charge £1,000 for the endorsement and £500 for each progress meeting.
- Our service fee
- Ask us for the current figure
Government fees and processing times change. We confirm the latest figures before you apply. Source: GOV.UK , checked on 19 September 2026.
How it works
- 1
Free consultation
Tell us your plans. We explain your options and honest chances.
- 2
Your personal checklist
We list exactly what you need and review every document.
- 3
Application & biometrics
We complete the forms with you and prepare you for your appointment.
- 4
Decision & travel
We track your application and help you get ready to go.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Ask a counsellor, it’s free.
Important information
Pick Time Consultancy is an independent consultancy. We are not part of, or endorsed by, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office or the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This page is general information, not legal advice, and immigration rules change often. Always check the official source before you apply.
Other UK visas
View allVisit
Standard Visitor
Visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, to see family or friends, or for permitted business activities.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £135
Work Permit
Skilled Worker
Work in the UK for a Home Office–approved employer in an eligible skilled job. A route to settlement after 5 years.
- Processing time
- ~3 weeks
- Government fee
- From £819
Talk to an expert
Get free advice on the UK Innovator Founder Visa
Tell us a little about your situation. A counsellor will check your eligibility and explain the next steps.