What is the UK Start-Up Visa?
The UK Start-Up Visa is designed for individuals who wish to establish a business in the UK for the first time. Unlike other business visas, this visa is aimed at entrepreneurs who are looking to develop an innovative business idea, with the potential for high growth.
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa UK, applicants must have an endorsement from a recognized body that supports and validates their business idea. This endorsement ensures that the applicant’s business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable. The Start-Up Visa offers a unique opportunity to bring fresh, innovative concepts to the UK market, making it an ideal route for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.
Features of the UK Start-Up Visa
Initial Stay
You can stay in the UK for up to 2 years on a Start-Up Visa.
No Investment Funds Requirement: Unlike the Innovator Visa, there is no minimum financial investment required to apply.
Endorsement Requirement
You must obtain an endorsement from an approved UK endorsing body that recognizes your business idea as viable and innovative.
Flexibility
The Start-Up Visa allows you to explore various business models, and it does not restrict you to any particular industry or business structure.
Dependents
Applicants can bring their spouse/partner and children under 18 as dependents.
What is the UK Innovator Visa?
The Innovator Visa UK is designed for more experienced entrepreneurs who have a proven track record of business success. Unlike the Start-Up Visa, the Innovator Visa requires applicants to have a more developed business idea, along with substantial financial backing to invest in their business.
The UK Innovator Visa offers a pathway to permanent residency (settlement) after three years, provided you meet certain requirements during your time in the UK. This visa is ideal for individuals with a viable business plan, clear objectives, and the financial capacity to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Features of the UK Innovator Visa
Duration of Stay
The Innovator Visa allows you to stay in the UK for 3 years. You may extend this visa for another 3 years, with a path to settlement (indefinite leave to remain).
Investment Funds
You must invest at least £50,000 in investment funds to invest in your business or access this amount through a third party.
Endorsement
Like the Start-Up Visa, the Innovator Visa also requires an endorsement from an approved body that assesses the innovation, scalability and potential of your business idea.
Path to Settlement
After 3 years, you can apply for permanent residency in the UK, provided you meet the criteria for the visa extension and maintain your business operations successfully.
Dependents
You can bring your partner and children under the age of 18 as dependents.
Major Differences Between UK Start-Up Visa and Innovator Visa
Both the Start-Up and Innovator visa allow individuals to visit the UK to start a business but they differ in many other important ways. A small comparison of both visas is given below.
| Feature | UK Start-Up Visa | UK Innovator Visa |
| Eligibility | ||
| Investment Requirement | None | A minimum of £50,000 investment is required. |
| Endorsement | Required from an approved body. | Required from an approved body. |
| Duration of Stay | 2 Years | 3 Years |
| Path to Settlement | Not possible, but can switch to an Innovator visa | Yes, after living for 3 years |
| Dependents | Dependents are eligible | Dependents are eligible |
UK Innovator Visa Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements to qualify for the UK Innovator visa.
The applicant should secure an endorsement from an authorized UK body which is approved by the Home Office. This body will assess the innovation, scalability and viability of the business
How Croyez Immigration Can Help You
Getting through the UK Start-Up and Innovator visa application processes can be difficult. Croyez Immigration offers expert guidance and support to help you in each step of the process. This will make sure you meet the requirements for both the UK Start-Up and Innovator visa. Our experienced consultants will help you with the following.
We will help you to assess your eligibility and determine which route suits your best interests and if you meet the necessary criteria.
We will assist in collecting all the necessary and supporting documents needed for
The UK Start-Up Visa and Innovator Visa offer a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to establish their business in the UK. If you are a new entrepreneur or have significant business experience, the right visa can lead to success.
Consultants at Croyez Immigration will ensure that you meet the UK Start-UP visa and innovator visa requirements easily. Our team of professionals are dedicated to providing customized solutions and consistent support. We also make sure your entrepreneurial journey in the UK will be successful. Get in touch with us to begin your application process and take the first step towards a brighter future in the UK.
