Innovator Founder Visa UK

The startup visa offers technology and IT professionals a unique opportunity to move to the UK, either to launch a startup or to relocate an existing business to the country.

The visa program, launched in 2023, simplifies the relocation of promising specialists and entrepreneurs to the UK and fosters the growth of the startup ecosystem. The Innovator Founder Visa is an excellent alternative to the Global Talent Visa.
Enjoy the Following Opportunities
The visa is issued for 3 years and can be extended or lead to permanent residency (ILR).

For individuals and teams

Individuals or teams of co-founders can apply. For groups, a joint document package must be submitted, with each participant assessed individually.

Fast track to residency and passport

After three successful years of business operation, you qualify for permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain, ILR). After an additional year, but not before completing five years of residence in the UK, you become eligible to apply for citizenship.

Employment flexibility

There are no restrictions on employment in the UK. You may combine running your own business with full-time employment or academic studies.

Zero-investment requirements

No minimum investment sum is required. Applicants must demonstrate in their business plans the potential to attract the necessary investments for the first year.

No diploma needed

There are no educational prerequisites for applicants.

Hiring opportunities

With a sponsor license, you can relocate your entire team under a Skilled Worker Visa.

Family together

You can bring your spouse and children. Family members' visas will have the same duration as yours, enabling them to work and study in the UK.

Fast approval

Visa approval process takes 1-2 months.
Why Choose Red Bishops?
Red Bishops specializes in providing seamless relocation solutions for startups looking to expand their operations to key business hubs across France, the UK, and the USA.
Here's why startups trust us:
  • Expertise
    With years of experience in the relocation industry, we have the expertise to navigate the complexities of international expansion, ensuring a smooth transition for your startup.
  • Customized Solutions
    We recognize that every startup is unique, which is why we offer customized relocation packages tailored to meet your specific needs and requirements.
  • Global Network
    Through our extensive network of partners and affiliates, we can facilitate your startup’s relocation to prime locations in France, UK, and the USA, enabling you to tap into new markets and opportunities.
  • Dedicated Support
    Our team of relocation specialists is committed to providing personalized support and guidance at every step of the relocation process, ensuring that your startup receives the assistance it needs to thrive in its new environment.
Contact Us
Not sure if you’re eligible? Need more info on a visa? Contact our expert directly to get all the answers.
Email: vl@red-bishops.com
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What You Can Enjoy with
Red Bishops
The primary condition for receiving the visa is having a detailed business plan, which must be endorsed by an Endorsing Body — one of the accredited UK organizations. The main criteria for success are innovation, financial viability, and scalability. Once you receive this endorsement, consider your visa practically guaranteed. Our work on the case study consists of two stages:
  • Receiving an Endorsement from an Endorsing Body
    If you already have a business plan, we will assess how well it meets the program requirements and make necessary enhancements. If you do not have a plan, no worries — our experts will develop a business plan from scratch with you, highlighting the uniqueness of your project for the UK. We will conduct market research, build a financial model, and substantiate the potential for attracting investments.
    Besides, we will help properly prepare your CV for the Endorsing Body, as they evaluate not only the startup idea but also the personalities of the founders. Additionally, we will translate all documents into English.

    We will also assist in selecting a proper Endorsing Body and submit your project for evaluation. The assessment process may involve 1−2 online team meetings with the Endorsing Body to discuss the project. If necessary, we can file an appeal or recompile the business plan for resubmission.
  • Receiving the Innovator Founder Visa
    In the second stage, we will help assemble all the necessary documents for the visa application and submit it through the Home Office website.

    The process includes identity verification (either through biometrics at a visa center or by scanning your passport in the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app) and payment of fees. Applications can be submitted from any country where the applicant has the legal right to reside for more than six months.
We’ll be with you and your team every step of the way, from preparing your documents to handling everyday challenges after you’ve settled in. We’re here to support you throughout the entire process.

Required Documents for Visa Application:

• Endorsement Letter. A support letter from an authorized organization.
• Valid Passport. Proof of identity.
• Bank Statements. Evidence of having at least £1,270 in your account for the last 28 days before applying. Additional funds are required: £285 for a spouse, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child.
• English Proficiency Proof. At least a B2 level.
• Tuberculosis Test Results.
How Long Does It Take?
Developing a business plan from scratch to submission to an Endorsing Body
  • up to 6 weeks
    The assessment process by an authorized organization until the Endorsement Letter is received
  • 3-6 weeks
    The official visa issuance time recommended by consulates
  • 3 weeks*
    *8 weeks in case of a status change while already in the UK

Mandatory Costs

These fees are paid to the UK government and authorized organizations.
These fees are paid to the UK government and authorized organizations
Endorsing Body Assessment:
£1000 per founder
Assessment fee is paid yearly to demonstrate the viability of your business
Health insurance for adults:
£1035 per year, payable in advance for 3 years
Health insurance for children:
£776 per year, payable in advance for 3 years
Consular Fee:
£1191
Or £1486 for applications within the country
Biometric Data Fee:
£20
IELTS Exam Fee:
£210
Not necessary if you have a current IELTS certificate or a degree from an English-speaking university
Our Service Fees
Case preparation and support:
For 1 founder:
€7900
For 2 founders:
€10900
For 3 founders:
€13900
Estimated Cost Breakdown for Two Co-founders Over 3 Years
Estimated Cost: ‍€ 26 156

£2000 — Initial Endorsing Body Assessment
£2000 — Assessment fee for the first and second year
£6210 — Health Insurance
£2382 — Consular Fees
£40 — Biometric Data Fees
£420 — IELTS Examination Fees
€ 10 900 — Case Preparation and Support by Red Bishops
Start the process

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