Enroll in A Free consultation with an expert.
Opportunities in UK
Investing and settling in the United Kingdom (UK) is now more accessible through the Innovator Founder Visa category, designed for experienced entrepreneurs looking to establish innovative businesses. This visa enables you to reside in the UK with your family for up to 5 years and 4 months, with an option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent settlement) after completing five years in the UK. Oxour offers comprehensive support to navigate this investment journey effectively and maximize opportunities under this program.
Benefits of the UK Innovator Founder Visa:
- Flexibility in investment amount based on the business concept.
- Residency in the UK with family for up to 3 years, extendable by 2 years.
- Access to UK healthcare and educational facilities.
- Streamlined and efficient processing.
Requirements for the UK Innovator Founder Visa:
- Minimum age requirement of 18 years.
- Submission of a detailed business plan outlining the proposed venture.
- Endorsement of the business idea by an expert panel.
- Endorsement letter from a recognized endorsing body.
- IELTS score of at least 5.5 and a TB test certificate if applicable.
Steps to Apply for the UK Innovator Founder Visa:
- Complete the online application form.
- Compile necessary documents in JPG, PNG, PDF, or JPEG formats.
- Pay the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.
- Submit the completed application online.
- Schedule an appointment at the visa application centre.
- Await processing of your visa application.
Eligibility Criteria for the UK Innovator Founder Visa:
To qualify for the Innovator Founder Visa, applicants must pass a point-based assessment, focusing on investment funds, language proficiency, and maintenance funds. Key eligibility requirements include:
- Approval of an innovative business idea by an endorsed body.
- Non-European Economic Area (EEA) and non-Swiss citizenship.
- Adequate funds for investment as stipulated.
- Fulfilment of additional criteria such as age, business experience, education, language proficiency (B2 level in English), good health, and absence of criminal record.
Oxour provides expert guidance throughout the application process, ensuring compliance with all visa requirements and maximizing the potential for successful investment and settlement in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
1. Who is eligible for the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder Visa is suitable for experienced entrepreneurs outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. Applicants must have a viable business idea endorsed by an approved endorsing body and meet financial requirements for investment.
-
2. What are the benefits of the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
- Flexibility in investment amount based on business concept.
- Residency in the UK with family for up to 3 years, extendable by 2 years.
- Access to UK healthcare and educational facilities.
- Streamlined application processing.
-
3. What are the key requirements to apply for the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
- Minimum age of 18 years.
- Submission of a comprehensive business plan.
- Endorsement of business idea by an expert panel.
- Endorsement letter from a recognized endorsing body.
- Required language proficiency (IELTS 5.5) and health checks.
-
4. How can Oxour assist with the UK Innovator Founder Visa application?
Oxour offers comprehensive support including documentation guidance, application form filling, business plan preparation, visa fee payment, appointment scheduling, and updates on application progress. We also provide preparation for visa interviews if required.
-
5. What is the processing time for the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
Processing times vary, but applicants can generally expect efficient handling of their applications once all requirements are met and endorsements secured.
-
6. Can I apply for permanent residency with the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
Yes, after residing in the UK for five years under the Innovator Founder Visa category, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to potential eligibility for UK citizenship.
-
7. Is there a minimum investment requirement for the UK Innovator Founder Visa?
There is no fixed minimum investment requirement; instead, the investment amount depends on the business concept and endorsement by the endorsing body.
-
8. What happens if my Innovator Founder Visa application is rejected?
In case of rejection Oxour provides guidance on appealing the decision or exploring alternative visa options that may better suit your circumstances.
These FAQs aim to provide clarity on the UK Innovator Founder Visa, offering guidance on eligibility, benefits, requirements, and the application process facilitated by Oxour to ensure a smooth and successful immigration journey to the UK.