GB Business & investor Temporary

Innovator Founder visa

The UK's main entrepreneur route; no fixed minimum investment.

Who this route is for

Founders of a new, innovative, scalable UK business endorsed by an approved endorsing body.

Endorsement confirming the business idea is innovative, viable and scalable.
No mandatory minimum investment (the previous 50,000 pounds requirement was removed in April 2023).
English at CEFR B2.
Be the active founder taking a day-to-day role; attend two endorsement contact-point meetings.
Maintenance funds of 1,270 pounds held for 28 days unless exempt.

Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.

The UK's main sponsored work visa.

IHS-exempt Skilled Worker branch for NHS and eligible health professionals.

Unsponsored visa for leaders in research, arts/culture or digital technology.

Sponsored for 6 months, then work freely with no sponsor for a fast-growing UK firm.