The Innovator visa category has replaced Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa category which has been closed for initial applications as of 29 March 2019. Applicants will be able to apply for Innovator visa relying on funds for investment of £50,000 instead of £200,000 which was a requirement for Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa category. The English language proficiency level for Innovator Migrants is set at level B2 instead of level B1 which was the requirement for Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa category. ILR for all applicants in Innovator visa category will be after 3 years instead of 5 years and those who cannot meet the ILR criteria will be able to seek extension of stay for further 3 years. There is no limit on number of times an applicant can successfully apply for extension of stay under Innovator visa category before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as an Innovator Migrant.
The innovator visa category is for more experienced businesspeople seeking to establish a business in the UK. Applicants will have an innovative, viable and scalable business idea which is supported by an endorsing body. With some exceptions, applicants will have funding of £50,000 to invest in their business.
The Innovator Migrants will have to provide the letter from the endorsing body at initial application, extension and ILR application stage in order to succeed in their applications.
Applications By Innovator Migrant
Entry Clearance As Innovator Migrant |
Switching Into Innovator Visa UK |
Extension/Renewal Of Innovator Visa UK |
ILR As An Innovator Migrant |