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United Kingdom (UK)
Innovator Founder Visa - Residency by Investment (RBI) Program 2025
A Complete Guide
Minimum: N/A +
Processing Time: 4 - 6 months
Return to Golden Visa (Residency by Investment) Countries 2025
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Introduction
The United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is a premier immigration pathway designed for entrepreneurs seeking to establish and scale innovative businesses in the UK. This visa replaces the previous United Kingdom (UK) Investor Visa (Tier-1) or United Kingdom (UK) Investment Visa (Tier-1), offering a streamlined approach for business-minded individuals. It is a significant component of the broader United Kingdom (UK) Residency by Investment (RBI) framework, providing opportunities for global entrepreneurs to secure long-term residence through economic contributions.
The UK is a highly attractive destination due to its stable economy, world-class infrastructure, and welcoming business environment. Many High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) also consider the United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa, a concept often linked with investment-based residency programs. By leveraging United Kingdom (UK) Business Investment, entrepreneurs can access numerous benefits, including eventual United Kingdom (UK) permanent settlement status, also known as United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR) or United Kingdom (UK) Indefnite Leave to Remain (ILR), United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship, a robust financial environment, and global market opportunities. United Kingdom (UK) Dual Citizenship is permitted.
Country Profile
The United Kingdom (UK) is one of the world’s top destinations for investment and innovation. With a well-regulated financial sector, access to global markets, and a favourable taxation system, it provides an excellent environment for entrepreneurs. The United Kingdom is a strategic location that serves as a gateway to Europe, North America, and Asia, making it an ideal hub for international business. Its business-friendly policies, supported by government grants, funding, and initiatives, encourage start-ups and innovation. As one of the largest economies globally, the UK offers financial stability and sustainable business growth. Additionally, its attractive tax system provides benefits for investors and businesses, including tax reliefs for research and innovation. The country is also known for its transparent legal framework, which safeguards intellectual property and business interests. Furthermore, the UK boasts a highly skilled workforce, particularly in the tech, finance, and engineering sectors, making it an excellent destination for business development.
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Official Name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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Capital: London
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Population: Approximately 67 million (as of recent estimates)
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Area: 242,495 square kilometres (93,628 sq. mi)
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Location: A sovereign country in northwestern Europe, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
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Official Language: English
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Spoken Languages: English (predominantly), Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Irish
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Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), UTC +0; Daylight Saving Time: UTC +1
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Driving Side: Left
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Climate: Temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 37°F (3°C) in January to 68°F (20°C) in July.
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Government: Parliamentary constitutional monarchy
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Major Industries: Financial services, tourism, manufacturing, technology
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Main Exports: Machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, petroleum
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Famous For: The Royal Family, Big Ben, Stonehenge, Shakespeare
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Motto: "Dieu et mon droit" ("God and my right")
Financial Requirements
One of the most attractive aspects of the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is that it does not require a minimum financial investment threshold, unlike the previous United Kingdom (UK) Investor Visa (Tier-1). However, applicants must meet the following financial criteria:
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Personal Savings Requirement: Applicants must hold at least £1,270 in a bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
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Business Funding: While no set amount is required, the business must be financially viable. Applicants may need to show funding sources and business sustainability.
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Living Expenses: Proof of funds to cover living costs in the UK is essential.
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Dependents: Additional financial proof is required for family members to ensure they can sustain themselves in the UK.
Unlike the previous United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa, which focused on high-value financial contributions, the Innovator Founder Visa emphasizes business activity and innovation.
General Requirements
To qualify for the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must fulfil the following criteria:
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Endorsement: An approved endorsing body must verify that the business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
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English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English fluency through standardized tests or academic qualifications.
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Residency Compliance: The visa holder must spend the majority of their time in the UK, actively working on their endorsed business.
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Business Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining innovation, financial projections, market strategy, and scalability is required.
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Continuous Engagement: The applicant must actively manage the business and provide updates to the endorsing body at regular intervals.
Family Inclusion
Applicants under the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa can bring dependents, including:
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Spouse or Partner: Legally recognized partners can accompany the primary applicant.
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Children: Dependents under 18 years old are eligible for inclusion.
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Educational Benefits: Children have access to top-tier UK schools and universities.
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Healthcare Access: Family members receive healthcare under the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
The ability to relocate with family makes this visa highly desirable for entrepreneurs seeking United Kingdom (UK) Second Residency for their loved ones.
Benefits
The United Kingdom (UK) Economic Residency obtained through the Innovator Founder Visa offers several advantages:
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Direct Pathway to United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Settlement and United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship: Applicants can apply for United Kingdom (UK) Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR), after three years, significantly faster than many other immigration programs. After five years, one can apply for United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship. United Kingdom (UK) Dual Citizenship is permitted.
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Freedom to Work: Visa holders can work in their business and engage in additional skilled employment.
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Tax Benefits: The UK offers a favourable United Kingdom (UK) tax regime, including incentives for businesses in technology, finance, and manufacturing.
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Access to Capital: UK businesses benefit from funding options, venture capital firms, and government-backed initiatives.
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Global Mobility: The visa facilitates easier travel within Europe and other global destinations.
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International Market Access: The UK’s trade agreements provide businesses with access to key international markets.
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Business Growth Potential: Innovators can establish and expand enterprises in a stable, business-friendly environment.
Process & Procedures
The application process for the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa involves several key steps:
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Secure Endorsement: Obtain approval from an endorsing body, validating the business idea’s innovation and viability.
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Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including personal identification, business plan, financial proof, and language certifications.
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Submit Application: Apply online via the UK government website, ensuring all details are accurate.
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Provide Biometrics: Attend a visa application centre to submit fingerprints and photographs.
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Await Decision: Processing time is typically 3-8 weeks, depending on application location and case complexity.
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Business Implementation: Upon arrival in the UK, applicants must establish and grow their endorsed business.
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Regular Monitoring: Endorsing bodies review business progress at 12 and 24 months, ensuring compliance.
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Apply for United Kingdom ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship: After three years, successful entrepreneurs can apply for United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR), also known as United Kingdom (UK) Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). After five years, one can apply for United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship. United Kingdom (UK) Dual Citizenship is permitted.
This structured process ensures that only committed and qualified entrepreneurs benefit from United Kingdom (UK) Business Investment opportunities.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is an excellent option for entrepreneurs seeking United Kingdom (UK) Residency by Investment (RBI) through innovation and business creation. Unlike the discontinued United Kingdom (UK) Investor Visa (Tier-1), this visa prioritizes business activity over passive financial investment. With strong benefits, including family inclusion, tax advantages, and a direct route to settlement, this program stands out as a premier economic residency option.
For ambitious entrepreneurs looking for United Kingdom (UK) Economic Residency, the Innovator Founder Visa provides a flexible and rewarding pathway to success. Whether you are seeking global market access, financial growth, or long-term stability, this visa serves as an ideal solution for those wanting to establish a thriving business in one of the world’s leading economies.
FAQs
The United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is a prime route for entrepreneurs seeking United Kingdom (UK) Residency by Investment (RBI). This program is part of the United Kingdom (UK) Business Investment framework, attracting foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow innovative businesses in the UK.
Below are FAQs regarding the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa, as well as insights into related investment-based residency options such as the discontinued United Kingdom (UK) Investor Visa (Tier-1) or United Kingdom (UK) Investment Visa (Tier-1) or United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa.
1. What is the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa?
The United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is an immigration route for entrepreneurs seeking to establish a new, innovative, viable, and scalable business in the UK. It replaces the UK Innovator Visa and the UK Start-up Visa, making it a streamlined pathway for business founders.
Unlike the previous United Kingdom (UK) Tier-1 Investor Visa (which required a minimum £2 million investment), the Innovator Founder Visa does not require a specific investment amount. Instead, applicants must secure endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body.
2. What is the difference between the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa and the United Kingdom (UK) Residency by Investment (RBI) program?
United Kingdom (UK) Residency by Investment (RBI) is just another term used for the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa. Other popular terms include:
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United Kingdom (UK) Investor Visa
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United Kingdom (UK) Investment Visa
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United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa
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United Kingdom (UK) Economic Residency
The Innovator Founder Visa is currently the only Residency by Investment option for entrepreneurs and investors seeking UK residency.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa?
To qualify for the UK Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must:
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Have an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea endorsed by a UK endorsing body.
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Play a key role in the day-to-day management and development of the business.
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Meet the English language requirement (CEFR Level B2 or equivalent).
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Show sufficient personal financial means (minimum £1,270 in personal savings).
There is no fixed investment amount required, but applicants must prove they can fund and scale their business.
4. What is the endorsement process for the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
An approved UK endorsing body must assess and endorse the business idea based on three criteria:
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Innovation – The business must introduce a new or significantly improved product, service, or model to the UK market.
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Viability – The applicant must demonstrate relevant skills, experience, and a sound business plan.
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Scalability – The business must have potential for national and international growth and job creation.
5. How long is the United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa valid? Can it be extended?
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The UK Innovator Founder Visa is initially granted for three years.
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It can be extended indefinitely in three-year increments if the business continues to meet the endorsement criteria.
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After three years, visa holders may apply for United Kingdom (UK) Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR).
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After five years, one can apply for United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship. United Kingdom (UK) Dual Citizenship is permitted.
6. Can I get Permanent Residency (PR) or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the United Kingdom (UK) through the Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes. The UK Innovator Founder Visa offers a fast-track route to United Kingdom (UK) Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR), after three years, provided the business meets success metrics such as:
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Job creation (at least 10 full-time jobs for UK residents).
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Revenue growth (minimum £1 million turnover or £500,000 with £100,000 from international sales).
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Innovation impact (patents, market leadership, or other indicators of business success).
United Kingdom (UK) ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain), also known as United Kingdom (UK) Permanent Residency (PR), allows applicants to remain in the United Kingdom (UK) indefinitely (permanently) and, after two additional years, apply for United Kingdom (UK) Citizenship. United Kingdom (UK) Dual Citizenship is permitted.
7. What is the financial requirement for living in the UK under the Innovator Founder Visa?
Applicants must show £1,270 in personal savings, plus additional amounts for each dependent. There is no set minimum investment amount for the business, but applicants must demonstrate sufficient funding to operate their company.
8. Can I switch to the Innovator Founder Visa from another UK visa?
Yes. Eligible visa categories include:
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United Kingdom (UK) Start-up Visa
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United Kingdom (UK) Skilled Worker Visa
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United Kingdom (UK) Student Visa (Tier 4) (if running a qualifying business)
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United Kingdom (UK) Global Talent Visa
9. Can I work a separate job while on the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
No. Visa holders must focus on their endorsed business and cannot take secondary employment outside of it.
10. How does the UK Innovator Founder Visa compare to the United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa (UK Tier-1 Investor Visa)?
The United Kingdom (UK) Golden Visa (UK Tier-1 Investor Visa) was a Residency-by-Investment route requiring a £2 million passive investment, but it was discontinued in 2022 due to security concerns. The Innovator Founder Visa is now the primary investment-based residency option, focusing on business innovation and job creation rather than passive investment.
11. What are the tax implications for Innovator Founder Visa holders in the United Kingdom (UK)?
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Worldwide Taxation: Once a visa holder is a UK tax resident (over 183 days per year in the UK), they must pay UK tax on global income.
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4-year Foreign Income and Gains Regime: The new regime has replaced the Remittance Basis of Taxation applicable to individuals of Non-Domiciled status which provides 100% relief on foreign income and gains for new arrivals to the UK in their first 4 years of tax residence, provided they have not been UK tax resident in any of the 10 consecutive years prior to their arrival
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Corporate Tax: If the business is registered in the UK, it must pay UK corporate tax (currently 25% as of 2025).
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Capital Gains Tax & Inheritance Tax: Entrepreneurs planning for UK economic residency should consider tax structuring.
12. Can Innovator Founder Visa holders bring family members?
Yes. Visa holders can bring:
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Spouse or partner
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Children under 18
Dependents can work, study, and live in the UK without restrictions.
13. What happens if my business fails?
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The visa holder must obtain a new endorsement for a different business or switch to another visa category.
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If no valid visa route is available, they must leave the UK.
14. Where can I get professional help with my UK Innovator Founder Visa application?
Consulting a UK immigration lawyer or working with an approved endorsing body is recommended for navigating the complex application process.
Final Thoughts
The United Kingdom (UK) Innovator Founder Visa is the only option for entrepreneurs and investors seeking UK residency through business investment. While the UK Golden Visa or UK Investor Visa (Tier-1) are no longer available, the Innovator Founder Visa remains a strong Residency by Investment (RBI) program, offering UK economic residency, business expansion, and a pathway to British Citizenship. British Dual Citizenship is permitted.