Innovator Founder route

Starting a business in the UK, and preparing for an endorsing body.

Checked against gov.uk on 22 Oct 2026

Who this is for: Entrepreneurs with a new, innovative and scalable business idea.

The Innovator Founder route is for people starting a new business in the UK. Your idea must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body, which checks that it is new, innovative, viable and scalable. You cannot join a business that is already trading.

Per gov.uk, you can stay for 3 years, and you can extend for another 3 years with no limit on extensions. You must meet your endorsing body at 12 and 24 months to show progress, and the visa can be cut short if the endorsement is withdrawn. You may be able to apply for settlement after 3 years if you meet the other requirements.

The endorsement itself is the endorsing body's decision. What you can do beforehand is strengthen the business idea and the plan you will present.

Key points

  • You need an endorsement from an approved endorsing body before you apply.
  • The idea must be new, innovative, viable and scalable.
  • Gov.uk lists a fee for the endorsement and for each required meeting with the body. Check the current amounts.
  • You may be able to switch into this route from another visa while in the UK. Check the switching page on gov.uk.
  • Your business plan matters as much as the idea. Prepare it early.

Typical order of events

  1. Idea stageTest your idea against the four tests: new, innovative, viable, scalable.
  2. PlanWrite the business plan and the job-creation and growth case.
  3. EndorsementApply to an approved endorsing body and attend their assessment.
  4. After endorsementApply for the visa with your endorsement letter.
  5. Months 12 and 24Check-in meetings with your endorsing body to show progress.

General information only. This page does not say whether you qualify for anything, and rules change, so check the linked gov.uk pages. For advice on your own case, use an IAA-registered adviser or a solicitor.