Sohrab Vazir
Consultant | Founder | Global Citizen | Writer
Category Archives: Immigration
A Guide to the UK Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder Visa UK program is a significant opportunity for international entrepreneurs seeking to start or scale a business in the United Kingdom. Designed to attract highly skilled innovators, this visa replaces the earlier Innovator Visa and Start-Up Visa. In this guide, I’ll break down the essentials of the Innovator Founder Visa UK, including eligibility criteria, benefits, and application steps. None of the content in this article constitutes immigration advice in any shape or form and serves as general information What is the UK Innovator Founder Visa? The Innovator Founder Visa is tailored for entrepreneurs with innovative, viable, and scalable business ideas. Unlike the predecessor program, it does not require applicants to have a minimum investment amount, provided their business concept meets the program’s criteria. This change has made the visa more accessible to a wider range of entrepreneurs with fresh ideas and limited capital. Key Benefits of the Innovator Founder Visa Eligibility Criteria for the Innovator Founder Visa UK To qualify for the visa, you must meet the following requirements: 1. Innovative Business Idea 2. Endorsement 3. Proficiency in English 4. Financial Maintenance Application Process for the UK Innovator Founder Visa Step 1: Develop Your Business Plan Craft a comprehensive business plan that demonstrates how your idea is innovative, viable, and scalable. Highlight market research, financial projections, and the problem your business solves. If you require help with your business, see this page for the range of assistance that I provide. Step 2: Secure Endorsement Contact an endorsing body to review your business plan. If approved, they will provide an endorsement letter required for your visa application. Step 3: Prepare Your Application Gather necessary documents, including: Step 4: Submit the Application Apply online through the UK government’s visa portal. The processing time typically ranges from 3 to 8 weeks. Step 5: Move to the UK Once approved, you can relocate to the UK and begin working on your business. Challenges and Tips for Success Tip: Seek Expert Advice Navigating the Innovator Founder Visa process can be complex. Engaging a business consultant or immigration specialist can significantly increase your chances of success. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can I extend my Innovator Founder Visa?Yes, the visa can be extended for additional three-year periods, provided you continue to meet the criteria. 2. Is this visa suitable for startups?Absolutely. The visa is ideal for startups and early-stage businesses with high growth potential. 3. Can I switch to this visa from within the UK?Yes, switching is possible if you are already on a qualifying visa. Conclusion The Innovator Founder Visa UK is a golden opportunity for global entrepreneurs looking to establish innovative businesses in the United Kingdom. With its focus on innovation and flexibility, it opens doors to a thriving startup ecosystem and long-term residency. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a visionary with a groundbreaking idea, this visa can be your gateway to success in the UK. If you’re considering applying, start by refining your business idea and reaching out to endorsing bodies for support. With the right approach, the UK could be the perfect destination to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Need Help? I offer a range of business consultancy and assistance services to international entrepreneurs. Additionally I can refer you to a regulated immigration advisor for your immigration queries. 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. 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.
What to Consider Before Applying for a Startup Visa
The startup visa is an attractive opportunity for international entrepreneurs who wish to launch or grow their business in a foreign country. Many nations offer these programs, granting entrepreneurs access to vibrant markets, resources, and networks. However, pursuing a startup visa isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Before embarking on this path, entrepreneurs should carefully weigh several key considerations. Below are important factors to help you decide if a startup visa aligns with your business goals and circumstances. 1. Eligibility Requirements Different countries have varying eligibility criteria for their startup visa programs. Some may require a detailed business plan, proof of investment, or endorsements from designated organizations. Others look at your professional background, language proficiency, and business viability. 2. Visa Duration and Path to Permanent Residency Another critical consideration is the length of the visa and whether it offers a pathway to permanent residency. Some startup visa programs grant only short-term stays, while others provide an opportunity to transition to a longer-term visa or permanent residence if your business meets performance criteria. 3. Market Conditions Entering a foreign market is exciting but challenging. It’s crucial to evaluate if your target market is favorable to your business model and industry. 4. Support Systems and Infrastructure A well-supported startup visa program often includes access to business incubators, accelerators, and mentorship networks that can help startups succeed. Assess the resources available to help your business flourish. 5. Cost of Living and Business Operations Before committing to a startup visa, understand the cost of living and business operations. These factors can greatly influence your budget and ability to scale. 6. Tax Implications A new business location often comes with a different tax system. It’s crucial to understand how a move will impact your personal and business taxes. 7. Exit Strategy Planning an exit strategy before applying for a startup visa is essential, particularly if your business or visa conditions don’t go as planned. Consider what happens if your business doesn’t perform well or if you decide to exit the market. Final Thoughts Applying for a startup visa can be a transformative opportunity to access new markets, gain fresh perspectives, and grow your business in a vibrant environment. However, understanding the full scope of the process, costs, and obligations is essential. By carefully evaluating each factor and conducting thorough research, you’ll be better prepared to determine if a startup visa is the right choice for your entrepreneurial journey. Remember, success depends on more than just obtaining a visa—it’s about positioning your business for sustainable growth and adaptability in a foreign market. 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. 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.
Why Foreign Entrepreneurs Should Start a Business in Georgia
In recent years, Georgia has emerged as a prime destination for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses. This small country, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers a unique blend of favourable policies, strategic advantages, and a vibrant cultural environment. If you’re considering expanding your entrepreneurial ventures, here’s why you should start a business in Georgia. 1. Business-Friendly Environment One of the standout features of Georgia is its remarkably business-friendly atmosphere. The country ranks highly on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index, thanks to government reforms aimed at simplifying business registration and reducing bureaucratic red tape. Entrepreneurs can set up a business quickly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growth rather than navigating complex regulations. 2. Attractive Tax Incentives When you start a business in Georgia, you’ll benefit from one of the most favourable tax regimes in the region. The corporate tax rate is set between 0%-20%, and in certain Free Industrial Zones, businesses enjoy a zero percent corporate tax on reinvested profits. This favourable tax structure makes Georgia an appealing choice for entrepreneurs looking to maximise their profits. 3. E-Residency Program Georgia’s innovative e-residency program allows entrepreneurs from around the world to register and manage their businesses online. This unique initiative enables you to operate your business remotely, offering flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re a digital nomad or simply prefer the freedom to work from anywhere, e-residency makes it easier than ever to start a business in Georgia. 4. Low Cost of Living Starting a business often involves significant expenses, but Georgia offers an affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries. This affordability extends to housing, food, and transportation, allowing entrepreneurs to stretch their budgets further. With lower overhead costs, you can reinvest more in your business, enhancing your chances for success. 5. Strategic Location Georgia’s geographical position makes it a strategic gateway to both European and Asian markets. With access to major trade routes and free trade agreements with several countries, Georgia provides excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs to expand their reach. This strategic advantage is particularly valuable for businesses looking to tap into diverse markets. 6. Vibrant Startup Ecosystem The capital city, Tbilisi, is home to a burgeoning startup ecosystem that is fostering innovation and collaboration among entrepreneurs. With numerous incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces, you’ll find ample opportunities to network, share ideas, and gain support from fellow business owners. This vibrant community is an excellent resource for new entrepreneurs seeking mentorship and guidance. 7. Rich Cultural Heritage Georgia is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. The country’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences creates an inspiring environment for creativity and innovation. By choosing to start a business in Georgia, you not only gain a strategic location and favoUrable policies but also immerse yourself in a culturally rich experience that can enhance your entrepreneurial journey. Starting a business in Georgia presents a unique opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs. With its business-friendly environment, attractive tax incentives, low cost of living, and strategic location, Georgia is an ideal choice for those looking to expand their ventures. The vibrant startup ecosystem, coupled with rich cultural experiences and supportive government initiatives, makes Georgia a prime destination for entrepreneurial growth. If you’re ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey, consider Georgia as your next business destination. With its numerous advantages, your venture is set to flourish in this dynamic country. 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. 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.
How to Move to the UAE as an Entrepreneur: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why start a business in the UAE? Starting a business in the UAE as an entrepreneur is an exciting opportunity, offering access to a thriving business environment, world-class infrastructure, and strategic location. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about relocating to the UAE and starting your entrepreneurial journey. The UAE is one of the top destinations for entrepreneurs to start a business due to: Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type For entrepreneurs, the most popular visa options are: 1. UAE Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs: The Golden Visa offers a 5-year residency for entrepreneurs who meet specific criteria, such as: Advantages: Learn more: UAE Government Golden Visa Information 2. Investor Visa: For those who invest in a UAE business, this visa allows a 3-year stay and can be renewed. Requirements: Step 2: Choose the Right Business Structure The UAE offers different types of business setups: Popular Free Zones for Entrepreneurs: Visit the official DMCC website for more information: DMCC Free Zone Step 3: Register Your Business To officially start your business, follow these steps: You can use services like the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) portal for licensing. More info at: DED Business Licensing Step 4: Open a Corporate Bank Account Having a UAE-based corporate bank account is crucial for your business operations. Requirements may vary by bank, but typically you need: Top Banks for Entrepreneurs: Step 5: Find a Suitable Place to Live and Work The UAE offers plenty of options for accommodation and office space. Consider the following: Tip: Use websites like Bayut or Property Finder to explore housing options. Step 6: Understand the Legal and Regulatory Requirements Ensure compliance with UAE laws: Step 7: Network and Connect with the Business Community Networking is vital for business success in the UAE. Join events, seminars, and organizations such as: Frequently Asked Questions Q: How much does it cost to start a business in the UAE? Q: Can I sponsor my family with an entrepreneur visa? Final Thoughts Starting a business in the UAE as an entrepreneur can be a game-changer for your business. With the right visa, business setup, and understanding of the local market, you can tap into a thriving ecosystem and enjoy long-term success. Start your journey today and take advantage of the UAE’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape! For more information, consult the UAE Government’s Official Portal and always seek professional guidance when needed. By following these steps, you can smoothly transition into the UAE as an entrepreneur and leverage the country’s favourable business environment for your success! Explore my services to start a business in the UAE. I help foreign entrepreneurs with their business relocation, building on my own experience. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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.
Ireland’s Startup Visa Program (STEP): A Comprehensive Guide
The Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) in Ireland is a dynamic initiative aimed at attracting foreign entrepreneurs to launch innovative businesses within the country. Launched in 2012, this program is part of Ireland’s broader strategy to become a global hub for startups and innovation. Ireland offers several benefits to entrepreneurs, including access to the European Union (EU) market, a highly skilled workforce, and a favourable corporate tax environment. Here’s an in-depth look at the STEP, including its advantages and drawbacks. What is the Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)? STEP allows non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to establish a high-potential startup in Ireland with the aim of promoting job creation, innovation, and investment in the country. Successful applicants are granted a residency visa, which permits them to live and work in Ireland. Key Eligibility Criteria: Pros of the Ireland STEP: 1. Access to the EU Market One of the biggest advantages of establishing a business in Ireland is access to the broader European Union market, which consists of over 400 million consumers. This opens up significant opportunities for startups to scale and expand into Europe easily. 2. Low Corporate Tax Rate Ireland boasts a 12.5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in Europe, which is a strong incentive for startups looking to minimize their tax burden. Additionally, Ireland offers several tax reliefs for research and development, providing further benefits for innovative businesses. 3. Favorable Business Environment Ireland has a well-established startup ecosystem supported by organizations like Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, which offer mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs. These organizations are instrumental in helping startups navigate the Irish business landscape and achieve growth. 4. High-Quality Talent Pool Ireland has a highly educated workforce, particularly in technology and life sciences. Its universities produce a steady stream of skilled graduates, and the country is home to many global tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, fostering a collaborative business environment for startups. 5. Fast-Track Residency STEP offers entrepreneurs and their families the opportunity to live in Ireland with a Stamp 4 Visa, which provides long-term residency. After living in Ireland for five years, applicants can apply for citizenship. Cons of the Ireland STEP: 1. Financial Barrier The €50,000 minimum investment requirement, although lower than many other countries, can still be a significant hurdle for some early-stage entrepreneurs, especially those from countries with lower access to capital or foreign exchange restrictions. 2. Sector Limitation The requirement for a high-potential startup that is scalable and innovative restricts the types of businesses that can qualify. Traditional businesses or those in non-tech sectors may find it difficult to meet the program’s strict criteria, limiting participation to more niche sectors. 3. Competition for Funding While there is strong support from Enterprise Ireland, competition for state-backed funding and grants can be fierce. Entrepreneurs need to have a well-thought-out business plan and demonstrate clear potential for growth to secure financial backing. 4. Strict Evaluation Process STEP’s application process involves rigorous vetting by the Evaluation Committee to ensure that applicants meet all the requirements. This can be time-consuming, and the outcome is not guaranteed, even for qualified candidates. Conclusion: Ireland’s Startup Entrepreneur Programme offers a fantastic opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs to establish a business in a thriving European economy with access to a talented workforce and favorable tax conditions. While the program has some limitations, particularly in terms of the investment requirement and sector eligibility, the benefits of building a business in Ireland make it an attractive option for those in innovative and scalable industries. With access to the EU market, strong governmental support, and a low corporate tax rate, Ireland continues to position itself as a startup-friendly destination, particularly for businesses with high growth potential. However, entrepreneurs should carefully consider the financial and strategic commitments involved before applying for the visa. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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.
Innovator Founder Visa Changing?
Many wonder whether the current Innovator Founder Visa policy will change under the new Labour government in the UK. This is a question that only time will answer. However, I will outline some areas where change ought to be made. These proposed changes will ensure that the Innovator Founder Visa policy is robust and creates an attractive entrepreneurial ecosystem for international entrepreneurs. None of the content in this article, website, or my services constitute immigration advice or services. This content is presented as general information and on the basis of personal opinion. For immigration assistance, please refer to a regulated solicitor or immigration advisor. Before I highlight the potential areas of change to the Innovator Founder Visa regime, let me briefly describe this visa. I previously wrote an article and made a video on the flaws of the Innovator Founder visa policy, which you can read here. What is the Innovator Founder Visa? The Innovator Founder Visa is an immigration pathway designed for international entrepreneurs who may wish to set up an innovative business in the UK. Please refer to the UK Government website for full information about this visa. How should the Innovator Founder Visa policy change? There are several areas in which the Innovator Founder policy ought to change. An overview of the changes that I deem to be beneficial are: Let’s look at each one in more detail: Innovation One of the common issues I have observed since the launch of this visa is the innovation requirement and its interpretation. The “issue” with this requirement is that no specific factor determines innovation. For instance, patentability / Intellectual Property (IP), and no trade marks do not fall under this category. However, the problem with setting this as an absolute requirement is that many businesses, despite being innovative, cannot obtain patents. Thus, this would exclude a considerable number of founders and their businesses. Although this is a common problem, there is no clear fix either. Currently, determining innovation is subjective and up to each Endorsing Body to determine. Visa Fees This is sadly a problem that many founders are unhappy about. There are several costs associated with this visa, which are: With the first cost, the Endorsing Bodies have to charge applicants as this fee enables them to sustain their operations. However, the visa processing fee, payable to the UK government can be lowered. This is especially true when looking at other countries such as the Netherlands, where a similar visa costs around €380, in contrast to £1,191 for this visa. However, it is important to state that the Dutch self-employment visa only lasts for one year and has to be renewed. Nevertheless, given the lower number of applicants for the Innovator Founder Visa, in contrast to other visa routes such as the Skilled Worker pathway, it is sensible to consider lowering this fee. The Endorsing Bodies Firstly, allow me to clarify that this is not to criticise the current Endorsing Bodies. However, I believe that a higher number of Endorsing Bodies means more options for founders and additional sector-specific expertise. However, a potential issue that may arise from increasing the number of Endorsing Bodies is a potential conflict of interest between them. But looking at other countries such as Canada, we notice that applicants have more choices when it comes to third-party approval. With Canada in particular, founders have the option to either raise investment from VCs, or angel investors or enrol in incubation programs (but they do come with a cost). These are some of the areas in which the Innovator Founder visa policy may be reviewed and potentially changed. I have made a video on this topic as well, which you can view below: If you require business assistance as an international founder, have a look at my services designed for founders wishing to set up a business in the UK here. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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.
Why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant?
You are an international entrepreneur and want to start a business abroad. You may dread the various legal, commercial and perhaps cultural challenges ahead of you. Obtaining a visa, albeit a significant milestone, is only your first hurdle. I know how this situation feels as I have been in your shoes. I became an international entrepreneur in the UK following the competition of my master’s degree at Newcastle University. At the time, I identified a gap in the student housing market, which resulted in conceptualising and founding my former venture, StudyFlats. Within 4 years, I grew StudyFlats to 30+ UK cities, a team of four and we almost closed our first funding round until the lovely events of 2020 squashed the entire company (yes, painful). Nevertheless, I still obtained my Settlement/Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, also known as permanent residency. Throughout this entire time, I was fortunate to have friends and a powerful network to help me overcome some of the challenges facing every international entrepreneur. This was especially the case as I started StudyFlats with less than £500 and proofread students’ assignments in the first year to support myself and my business. However, not every international entrepreneur may have the network that I had. Moreover, I still had to make a lot of mistakes and go through extreme financial and mental pressure to grow my business. Yet, I could not identify a business consultant who specialised in working with overseas entrepreneurs (and decided to be the first one myself by the end of 2022). Let me tell you a little truth: as an international entrepreneur, you are at a disadvantage. You are taking risks and are also investing your key resources, time and money. If it fails, you are the only one losing. Risk is a core part of entrepreneurship, regardless of what type of entrepreneur you are. However, the risk is even greater when you are an entrepreneur and also have to comply with immigration rules and milestones. And this is one of the reasons why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant. Working with a consultant such as myself will help you in the following ways: Minimising risk My first advice to any entrepreneur is to have a thorough understanding of the market in which they seek to operate. This requires: Many international entrepreneurs lack one or both of the above, and it often results in disaster. The right business consultant will help you minimise risk as they possess both of the above factors. Cultural gap In life, and especially in business, everything boils down to relationships. You may neglect this factor. However, if you fail to communicate with your stakeholders the right way, you are destined to fail. The way business is conducted differs in each country. You may be a skilled entrepreneur, yet lack the cultural grasp of doing business in a country other than yours. Business consultants who work with international entrepreneurs (at least the right ones) will comprehend the importance of this point. Additionally, they will be able to help you successfully navigate the cultural landscape. Commercial expertise Entrepreneurship is a game of unlimited challenges. You fix one aspect, and the other crumbles. This is a brutal reality that you must accept. Additionally, various considerations must be taken into account. Let’s look at a few: By working with a business consultant, you will delegate some of these to them. This is not only sensible from a business perspective, but also essential for you to be able to overcome the personal and professional challenges that you will have to face. These are some of the reasons why every international entrepreneur should work with a business consultant. If you are an international entrepreneur and want to work with a consultant, get in touch with me today. I am the UK’s first and #1 independent business consultant who has been through the immigration journey himself. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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.
Innovator Founder Visa: Pros & Cons
None of the content in this article, website, or my services constitute immigration advice or services. This content is presented as general information and on the basis of personal opinion. For immigration assistance, please refer to a regulated solicitor or immigration advisor. The UK’s Innovator Founder visa was launched in 2023 as a pathway for foreign entrepreneurs to set up businesses in the UK. The visa and its requirements have substantially changed from its predecessor, the Innovator visa and the Tier 1 Entrepreneur scheme If you are considering the UK’s Innovator Founder visa, then it is sensible to make a full evaluation. As a former migrant entrepreneur and business consultant working with people navigating the business immigration journey, I will seek to highlight the pros and cons of this visa. Innovator Founder Visa Pros Suitable for scalable businesses The Innovator Founder visa requirements emphasize scalability. As such, if your business is scalable, or is already at traction stage, then this visa may be suitable. Pathway to permanent residence & UK citizenship This visa offers two pathways for settlement (permanent residence) in the UK: three years or five years. In comparison to other countries such as the UAE, this may be a desirable aspect for some. The UK’s global position The UK is among the easiest countries in the world to start a business in. Although due to recent legislation by the Companies House, there are now additional requirements and compliance protocols for setting up a company in the UK. The multicultural landscape of the UK, as well as English being the spoken language may be an advantage to some international entrepreneurs. Secondary employment The current Innovator Founder visa permits paid employment alongside the applicant’s business. This may be a beneficial option for some international founders. Innovator Founder Visa Cons Strict business & endorsement requirements The selection process for the Innovator Founder visa which is through an endorsement from one of the four designated Endorsing Bodies is strict. There are several requirements that your business must meet, as well as the founder/founding team meeting a certain skills level. Less Endorsing Bodies There are now only 4 endorsing bodies in contrast to 65 under the previous Innovator visa pathway. This leaves applicants with less choice and a lower margin of error. Personally, I support the view that a larger selection of Endorsing Bodies will facilitate additional sector-specific expertise. May be expensive for some There are several costs involved, and these exclude any additional help from third parties such as a business consultant (me) or an immigration advisor/solicitor. Minimum budget required: ÂŁ5000 to ÂŁ10,000 (this does not include the funds for your business). The initial costs are: Endorsement: ÂŁ1200 Visa Application Fee: ÂŁ1,191 (outside the UK) or ÂŁ1486 (inside the UK) NHS Health Surcharge: ÂŁÂŁ1,035 per year To help my clients/ Innovator Founder visa applicants, I offer an idea assessment service. This will involve assessing your idea and the provision of expert feedback to reduce the chances of your endorsement being rejected. Economic uncertainty Global events such as the 2008 Financial Crisis, Brexit and COVID-19 have left a painful mark on the UK’s economy. This is evident in several contexts such as the Cost-of-Living Crisis. Additionally, with the 2025 General Election coming up, it is reasonable to expect dramatic policy shifts, indicating economic uncertainty. These are some of the pros and cons of the Innovator Founder visa. Need help with the Innovator Founder visa endorsement? Check out my services, designed specifically for founders like you. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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. Disclaimer: none of the content in this article or my services constitutes immigration advice or services.
Innovator Founder Visa Rejection | 4 reasons
None of the content in this article, website, or my services constitute immigration advice or services. This content is presented as general information and on the basis of personal opinion. For immigration assistance, please refer to a regulated solicitor or immigration advisor. The risk of an Innovator Founder visa rejection is on the rise. This is not a surprise as the new visa, in contrast to the former Innovator visa, now permits applicants to engage in paid employment. As such, this has led to increased interest and demand for the Innovator Founder visa. In addition to increased demand, the current Innovator Founder visa can only be endorsed by 4 Endorsing Bodies, a far smaller number than the previous visa. As a business consultant working with international entrepreneurs, I have come across Innovator Founder visa rejection cases that relate to the endorsement stage. Moreover, I have also actively monitored the Innovator Founder visa’s rejections. These are 3 common reasons why your Innovator Founder visa endorsement application may be rejected. 1. Your idea is not innovative As you may be aware, there are 3 key factors that Endorsing Bodies assess when considering endorsement applications, which are: Let’s talk about the innovation aspect first. Technically speaking, your idea/business should: 2. Your business is not viable Notice that I did not use the word “idea” in the heading above? The “viability” aspect refers to “you”, the founder/founding team. The core requirement is whether you have the skills and competencies to start and scale the business or not. Thus, factors such as your professional experience or qualifications will be relevant. 3. Your idea is not scalable Put simply: what is the vision for your business? How far will it go? How much money will it make? You may have a unique concept and have the personal skills to launch the business, but how big will the business get? If your business cannot scale nationally or internationally, it may be one of the reasons for a rejection of your Innovator Founder visa endorsement. 4. You bought a bad Innovator Founder visa business plan I write business plans for my clients (up to a limit, as they take a lot of time and I write each plan myself). Therefore, I am aware that many founders will seek the help of external parties for their business plan. Sadly, the market is now full of business plan writers who simply either use ChatGPT, or hire people with no experience in business to write a low-quality plan. This is why I have introduced a service to coach and mentor founder to writer their own business plan. I understand that for some, it may be necessary to have somebody else communicate their business. However, writing your own business plan will give you more confidence in presenting it, and it will also improve several skills such as writing and design. And do not worry, I will help you with ALL of that. These are some common reasons behind an Innovator Founder Visa rejection at the endorsement stage. Remember, do not trust every company or person to be in charge of your business ideas and endorsement application, unless you can verify their credentials. Even then, you should make sure that you are aware of every aspect and stage of the business plan whilst it is written. Need help with the Innovator Founder visa endorsement? Check out my services, designed specifically for founders like you. 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. Subsequently, I obtained a further 3-year Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa (replaced by the Innovator Founder 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.
UK Innovator Founder Visa Consulting Program
Disclaimer | Nothing in this article, website or my services constitutes immigration and / or legal advice. I cannot advise or assist with your endorsement or visa application. All my services are solely intended to assist in planning, starting and scaling a business in the UK. If you’re interested in starting a business in the UK, then my Consulting Program is ideal for your business needs. As a former immigrant tech founder, I have settled in the UK myself through the business immigration journey. This Innovator Founder Visa Consulting Program is designed with migrant founders in mind, as well as extensive business knowledge that I have gained as a tech founder scaling a business in the UK (leading to not just settling in the UK but also closing a major seed funding round). About me Okay so first things first, let me briefly introduce myself: my name is Sohrab. I’m originally from Iran, and grew up in between my native Tehran, Switzerland and subsequently the UK when I moved here alone at the age of 17. I was initially on a Student / Tier 4 (Child) visa, which I secured myself, until I finished my master’s degree at Newcastle University, who then endorsed me for the former Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Route, and ultimately I switched to the former Tier 1 Entrepreneur scheme. As I navigated through the UK’s business immigration schemes, I grew StudyFlats to a team of 5, with a property portfolio across 30+ UK cities & 10,000 student rooms. My work has also received recognitio from GBEA, as well as leading to my acceptance onto the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator (a former Innovator Visa endorsing body – although at this point I was close to settlement in the UK despite having the option for that visa too). In short: I have lived and breathed the journey of being an immigrant entrepreneur in the UK. (See my CV) UK Innovator Founder Visa The UK’s Innovator Founder Visa is an immigration pathway for international entrepreneurs who wish to obtain residence in the UK through setting up a new business. For full information about the visa itself, please refer to the UK Government’s website. About the Innovator Founder Visa Advisory Program I understand how expensive & stressful this entire process is for founders. Being an entrepreneur is difficult on its own, let alone when combined with its pursuit within the frame of immigration rules. Sadly, many companies and services also offer extremely low-quality services in exchange for hefty fees (e.g. business plan writers). As such, I decided to come up with a solution that: A) helps Innovator Founder Visa applicants keep their costs low & B) be cost-efficient for my business. This UK Innovator Founder Visa Consulting Program helps founders: What the program covers? This 1:1 program is designed to help with all the business needs of founders, including idea assessment for the Innovator Founder Visa endorsement application. Below are some examples of the areas that I cover in this program: As you may have noticed, I am not an immigration advisor or solicitor. My services are solely of a business nature. The Innovator Founder pathway is a business visa. Meanwhile, business and visas are two completely separate domains. Immigration specialists are able to advise on immigration law, however, I assist in planning, starting & scaling a tech startup as a migrant founder (I cannot assist with or advise on any immigration applications, including endorsement). How it works & how much does it cost? The program consists of 5 one-to-one video calls between me and the founder(s). The applicants have the choice to choose which particular area they’d prefer to focus on during these sessions. The cost of the program is ÂŁ400. How to book? You can book and pay for your first session below. Once we have our first call, I will send you an invoice for the remaining program fee.