Applying for the Innovator Founder visa requires thought and careful planning. Not only do you have to make your business a success, but you also have to adjust to living in a new country. 

None of the content in this article or website shall constitute immigration advice in any shape or form. For immigration queries, please refer to a regulated solicitor or an immigration advisor regulated by the OISC.

Here are 3 things that you should keep in mind if you’re considering to apply for the UK’s Innovator Founder visa.

Living expenses

Aside from your business, you need to account for your living costs. Whilst this may seem obvious, the key point is long-term planning.

You need to plan for several scenarios, several of which include:

  • What will be your total living cost for the duration of your visa?
  • Are you allowed to work? If yes, will you have the time? If not, will that cause any issues down the road?
  • How easy is it to find a job in the UK in your profession?

Planning carefully for this is essential and ensures there are no nasty surprises later on.

Application, immigration & visa costs

Aside from your business and personal expenses, there are other costs too. You must find out whether your endorsing body will charge you and if yes, how much. 

Depending on your circumstances, these costs can vary. 

Linguistic & cultural differences

Again, this also depends on your circumstances. For some, this may not be an issue in the slightest. However, it may take time to get accustomed to cultural differences and different business practices. 

Therefore, it’s a good idea to learn about the UK’s business culture and everyday life if you’re unfamiliar. 

These are three obvious, yet underestimated, things to consider before applying for the Innovator Founder visa. 

If you need business assistance for your idea/company before applying for the Innovator Founder visa, then get in touch with me today or visit my page to find out more.

About My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business, StudyFlats.I did so by obtaining an endorsement from Newcastle University under the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Scheme (similar to the current Start-Up Visa). Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (which was replaced by the Innovator Visa). I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses, and mainly with obtaining endorsements from the endorsing bodies.