Registering a start-up in the UK is an attractive path for international entrepreneurs looking to establish an innovative business in the country. For this purpose, the Innovator Founder visa is required, allowing you to enter the UK market with a novel and fresh business idea. This article details the requirements and important points you need to know about this visa.
Innovative Idea
One of the main conditions for obtaining the UK Start-Up Visa is having an innovative and unique business idea. This idea should not be similar to existing ones in the UK market and must demonstrate significant innovation and growth potential. Additionally, your idea must be endorsed by relevant authorities.
Difference and Innovation
To prevent the registration of repetitive ideas, it is emphasized that your business must be entirely different from other existing start-ups in the market. Moreover, you need to show that your start-up has the potential to create jobs both nationally and internationally and contribute to the UK economy.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English is another essential requirement for obtaining the Start-Up Visa. You must have at least B2 level proficiency in all four English language skills. There are several ways to prove this proficiency:
- SELT Exam: Successfully passing this exam.
- Educational Qualifications: Holding GCSE, A-level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, or equivalent qualifications.
- International Qualifications: If you have studied outside the UK, your qualification must be verified by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC).
Duration of Stay with the Innovator Founder Visa
With the Innovator Founder visa, you can stay in the UK for three years. During this period, you must report your progress to the relevant authorities. If you need to stay longer, you can extend your visa in three-year increments. There is no limit to the number of extensions.
Required Documents for Application
To apply for this visa, you need the following documents:
- Business Endorsement: A letter showing that your business idea has been assessed by an endorsing body.
- Valid Passport: Or another document that proves your identity and nationality.
- Bank Statements: Showing at least £1,270 in savings held for 28 consecutive days before the application.
- English Language Certificate: Proof of English proficiency.
- SELT Exam: If required, provide the results of the SELT exam.
- Document Translations: If documents are not in English or Welsh, you must provide certified translations.
Application Fees
The associated visa application fees are:
- Outside the UK: £1,036 for you and each family member.
- Inside the UK: £1,292 for you and each family member.
Bringing Family and Children
Your partner and children can also join you in the UK as your dependents. The required documents for them are:
- Proof of Relationship: Documents showing that you and your partner have been living together for at least two years.
- Children’s Documents: Proof that your children live with you and are financially supported by you.
- Required Funds: Each dependent must have a specific amount of money in a bank account:
- £285 for a partner.
- £315 for one child.
- £200 for each additional child.
Applying for a Visa from Outside and Inside the UK
Your dependents must complete a separate visa application and pay the related fees. This application should be made before traveling to the UK. Additionally, to receive a biometric residence permit, they must provide fingerprints and photographs at the visa application center.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I study in the UK with the Innovator Founder visa? Yes, you can study in the UK.
- Can I switch to another visa? Yes, you can switch to another visa, but you must meet the new visa conditions.
- Is there a limit on the number of times I can extend my visa? No, there is no limit on the number of times you can extend your visa.
- Can I bring my family members to the UK with me? Yes, you can bring your partner and children as dependents.
- What documents are needed to prove my relationship with my partner? Documents such as a marriage certificate, joint bank statements, and proof that you have lived together for at least two years.
- Can my children study in the UK? Yes, your children can study in the UK.
- Do I need to prove financial support for my dependents? Yes, you need to show that you have a specific amount of money to support your dependents.
- Can I buy property in the UK? Yes, you can buy property in the UK.
- Can I work in the UK with the Innovator Founder visa? Yes, but you must focus on your business and cannot work as an athlete or coach.
- How long does it take to process the visa application? Visa applications are usually processed within three weeks, but it may take longer for specific reasons.
Source
UK Start-Up Visa – GOV.UK
We hope this article has helped you understand the steps and requirements for the UK Start-Up Visa better. We wish you success in starting your business in the UK.
