Lawyer, Family Office
Innovator Founder is the British route for those coming to build a business rather than take a job. Since the 2023 reform the visa has no minimum investment — the old £50,000 was scrapped. The filter is no longer money but the quality of the idea: an endorsing body must find the business plan innovative, viable and scalable.
How the Route Works
Endorsement comes from designated endorsing bodies assessing three criteria: innovation (not another coffee shop but a new answer to a market), viability (a realistic plan and founder competence) and scalability (growth and job potential). After the visa is granted the founder meets the endorsing body at checkpoints at 12 and 24 months: the business must track the plan. Secondary employment is allowed — but only in skilled roles.
ILR in 3 Years — Against Criteria
The route’s main prize is indefinite leave to remain after just 3 years, faster than most UK visas. It is not automatic: you show at least two achievements from the list — £50k raised, customer base doubled, meaningful R&D, five jobs at £25k+, £1m revenue or export sales. Family holds status with work rights; citizenship follows a year after ILR.
Innovator Founder or Global Talent
A strong tech founder often qualifies for both routes, and the choice is not trivial. Global Talent does not tie you to a specific business and has no checkpoints, but asks for a dossier of recognition. Innovator Founder is lighter on the personal dossier but harder on the business: plan, metrics, reporting. The practical rule: public recognition — go Global Talent; a strong business idea without a media footprint — Innovator Founder.
This material is an expert overview, not individual legal advice.