UK Business Immigration Guide 2026: Innovator Founder Visa and Expansion Worker Visa

Entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to set up in the United Kingdom will have the option to apply for one of a range of visas available for that purpose. The most popular visas include the Innovator Founder Visa and the Expansion Worker Visa from the UK. While they are both related to business, they are used for different reasons. UK Innovator Founder Visa What is the UK Innovator Founder Visa? The Innovator Founder Visa is a visa for entrepreneurs wishing to start and manage a new innovative business in the United Kingdom. This route is for people who have: A business concept that is new and innovative. A business that can be profitable and grow. Operate and expand the enterprise in the UK There is no minimum investment size requirement like some previous business visa requirements. The Innovator Founder Visa offers a wide range of benefits, with key features including the following: Mainly for the individual entrepreneur and founder of a start-up. Needs a creative, viable, and scalable business concept. Must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body. Enables the applicant to create and operate their own business. Provides a possible route to settlement in the UK.