The Innovator Founder Visa has been developed to be a powerful catalyst for entrepreneurial growth within the UK tech sector. But is the route really drawing in high-quality talent to the UK?
Immigration statistics would suggest so – the number of successful Innovator Founder applications more than doubled from the September 2021/22 to September 2022/23 years, and the trend only seems to be continuing.
Furthermore, due to the tightening of criteria from the times of the predecessor Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) route, the calibre of new businesses that are being set up has also enhanced. Applicants to the Innovator Founder route must present a strong business plan, demonstrating that their business venture has high potential to grow, to add value to the UK and to bring innovation to the market.
The visa has wielded great success for a whole host of reasons. Firstly, it has attracted the ‘brightest and best’ tech entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas and the potential to create significant impact. Secondly, it has been instrumental in driving economic growth through the creation of job opportunities, revenue streams and market demand. Thirdly, it has drawn significant interest from investors owing to the high standards required, and thus excellence of successful applicants. Lastly, by bringing experts and innovators together, it has created a supportive network of creativity and expertise, cultivating an environment centred around growth and transformation.
The UK has a strong reputation when it comes to delivering for businesses. Recognised as a hub for tech innovation, bold entrepreneurs and globally renowned financial companies, London is the place where your business can truly transform. The Innovator Founder Visa provides invaluable opportunities in a multitude of industries by giving exceptional entrepreneurs access to an environment where businesses thrive.
How Gherson can assist
While getting your business plan endorsed might seem daunting and complex, the revitalised Innovator route offers greater flexibility and simplicity compared to previous schemes. Gherson’s highly experienced immigration team are here to help you with navigating the process and beginning your entrepreneurial journey in the UK.
We have particular expertise working with entrepreneurs from the US, who are looking to bring their business ideas to the UK market. For more detailed information on emigration from the US to the UK, visit our US Immigration webpage.
If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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