The Innovator Founder Visa is a work visa that allows individuals to establish an innovative business in the UK.

A list of the current endorsing bodies are listed on the UK Government website. These endorsing bodies have been selected by the UK Government and there are no Higher Education Providers on the list. This means that Imperial College is not able to provide endorsement.

The business idea must demonstrate the following:

• New - you cannot join a business that is already trading,
• Innovative - you must have an original business idea which is different from anything else on the market,
• Viable, with potential for growth, and
• Scalable - you must give evidence of planning that includes creating jobs and growing into national and international markets.

These criteria will be assessed by one of the endorsing bodies. If you have queries about the assessment process, please contact the relevant endorsing body directly.

If you are planning to switch from the Graduate visa into this visa route, please note that you cannot rely on a business that has been established and trading whilst you were on your Graduate visa. You will need to apply with a new business idea.

The Imperial Enterprise Lab can provide support to help you develop your business idea. Please book an Ideas Surgery session with the Enterprise Lab team.