Shabana Bukhari 
In this blog readers will discover a comprehensive guide to obtaining an Innovator Founder Visa in Reading. Requirements, application process, and key considerations will be explained for entrepreneurs and innovators.
What is an Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa is for those applicants who wish to begin and manage a business in the UK. Please note that as the title suggests, the business must be ‘innovative’ and hence unlike anything that already exists.
Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- The financial requirement includes proving that you have a minimum of £1,270 if you are currently outside the UK or have been in the UK for less than 12 months.
- Your business proposal must be new and innovative.
- There must be potential for feasible economic growth in your business idea. You must also provide evidence which shows the possibility of job creation and how the business can expand into markets nationally and internationally.
- The business must be endorsed by an approved body. To read more about those bodies that are exempt from being an approved body please follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/endorsing-bodies-innovator-founder-and-scale-up-visas. Note that a letter of endorsement must be gained from the approved body and this letter must be issued no more than three months before the date that you apply for the Innovator Founder Visa.
- You must achieve level B2 of the CEFR which proves your eligibility under the English language requirement.
- You have acquired a TB test certificate if you are from a country which required such evidence.
Application Process
- Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements laid out above.
- Apply for an endorsement letter by an approved body and receive a letter from this body confirming your meet the requirements.
- Complete your online visa application including your endorsement letter as evidence and all other relevant documents, such as a CEFR certificate.
- Receive a decision on your Innovator Founder Visa.
Key Considerations
Under the Innovator Founder Visa applicants must consider the fact that this Visa allows you to remain the UK for three years.
Moreover, it should be noted that you need to meet with your endorsing body following the 12-month and 24-month marks respectively. This is to ensure that you are meeting the business progress which this Visa mandates.
Applicants must intend to take part in the day to day running of the business.
Finally, on the Innovator Founder Visa you are barred from working as a professional sports person and additionally are prevented from claiming the majority of state benefits.
FAQs about Innovator Founder Visa in Reading
What is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa is for those applicants who wish to begin and manage a business in the UK. Please note that as the title suggests, the business must be ‘innovative’ and hence unlike anything that already exists.
What is the application process for the Innovator Founder Visa?
The application process for the Innovator Founder Visa includes meeting the eligibility requirements and ensuring you apply and receive a letter from your endorsing body. This letter and other evidence proving the eligibility requirements must then be attached to your online application.
What is the English language requirement for the Innovator Founder Visa?
The English language requirement for the Innovator Founder Visa is a level B2 of the CEFR.
How long can I stay on the Innovator Founder Visa for?
Under the Innovator Founder Visa applicants can stay in the UK for three years.
What if I wish to stay longer in the UK than the standard three years that the Innovator Founder Visa provides for?
If you wish to stay longer in the UK than the standard three years that the Innovator Founder Visa provides for then you can apply to extend your visa for a following three years. Please note that there is no bar on the number of times that you can extend your visa. To read more about whether you are eligible to extend your visa follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa/extend-your-visa.
How long does it take for a decision to be made on my Innovator Founder Visa?
The Home Office estimates that it takes around 3 weeks if you are outside the UK, and 8 weeks if you are inside the UK to get a decision on your Innovator Founder Visa application.
Am I able to pay to get a decision on my Innovator Founder Visa quicker?
Yes, you can pay to get an expedited decision on your application for the Innovator Founder Visa.
How are the fees structured for the Innovator Founder Visa?
If you are applying outside the UK then it will cost £1,191 and if you are inside the UK, it will be £1,486. Please note that you will also have to pay the healthcare surcharge.
Can I bring my partner or child to the UK with me on my Innovator Founder Visa?
– Yes, you can bring your partner or child to the UK with you on the Innovator Founder Visa. However, an application for a ‘dependent visa’ must be made. More information on this can be obtained on the Home Office website: https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa/your-partner-and-children#:~:text=You%20can%20apply%20online%20for,to%20stay%20in%20the%20UK.
Summary about Innovator Founder Visa in Reading
In this blog readers have obtained a comprehensive guide to obtaining an Innovator Founder Visa in Reading. Requirements, application process, and key considerations have been explained for entrepreneurs and innovators.
Please contact our expert team at Henleaze Law which have a wealth of experience on Innovator Founder Visa applications on 0117 908 4625 or via email.
