Building something? Britain wants founders — and has three serious routes in. Which one fits depends on your idea, your backing and your timeline.
Innovator Founder · Global Talent · Scale-up · Expansion Worker.
Reviewed by the Morgan Smith Immigration team — IAA-regulated UK immigration specialists. Last reviewed 2026-07-20.
TL;DR
Founders typically use the Innovator Founder Visa (£1,357, endorsed business idea, settlement possible after 3 years) or Global Talent (£766, no sponsor). Founders expanding an existing overseas business use UK Expansion Worker (£340).
£1,357
Innovator Founder fee
3 years
To settlement (Innovator Founder)
£1,000
Endorsement fee
Routes for Founders
Three ways in — by idea, by track record, or by existing business.
What Our Clients Say
Independent Google reviews from the people and businesses we have supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about for founders in 2026.
Which UK visa should a startup founder choose?
Most founders use the Innovator Founder Visa: an approved endorsing body assesses the idea as new, innovative, viable and scalable, and the visa (£1,357 outside the UK) can lead to settlement in just 3 years. Founders with an established overseas business often use UK Expansion Worker instead.
Do I need investment to get a founder visa?
There is no fixed minimum investment for Innovator Founder — but for a new business the endorsing body must be satisfied you have sufficient funding and know where it comes from.
What is an endorsement?
A formal assessment by a Home Office-approved body (£1,000 excluding VAT) confirming your business idea meets the route tests. The letter is valid for 3 months, and progress is checked at £500 contact-point meetings after the visa is granted.
Can I work for my own company on these routes?
Yes — Innovator Founder is built for running your own business, and Global Talent allows employment, self-employment and directorships freely.
How fast can a founder settle in the UK?
Innovator Founder allows settlement applications after 3 years — the fastest mainstream route — if the business meets the growth requirements. Global Talent can also settle in 3 years for some categories.
Can Morgan Smith Immigration help before endorsement?
Yes — that is where the work is won. Our advisers shape the business plan around the endorsement tests, match you to the right endorsing body and manage the visa once the letter is issued.
Sources
Legal information on this page is based on guidance from GOV.UK, the UK Home Office / UK Visas and Immigration, legislation.gov.uk, and Free Movement. Rules change frequently — speak to our team to confirm current requirements.
Ready to Build in Britain?
From endorsement strategy to settlement — one team for the whole founder journey.