Sohrab Vazir
Consultant | Founder | Global Citizen
Tag Archives: Innovator Founder Visa
From Graduate Visa to Innovator Founder Visa: Key Tips
Thinking of switching from the UK Graduate visa to the Innovator Founder visa? Venturing into entrepreneurship may be a suitable option. However, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the Innovator Founder visa. Moreover, I will share some key tips to help you avoid common mistakes and better understand the Innovator Founder pathway. You may have several reasons for considering the Innovator Founder visa. However, it is imperative that you have a genuine intention of starting your own business. Moreover, you must pre-plan extensively for both entrepreneurship and pursuing the Innovator Founder visa. Not just a mere immigration route to stay First and foremost, you must understand that the Innovator route is not merely a way to remain in the UK. It is understandable that it’s challenging to find a sponsored job, especially as you have invested time and money, and wish to build a future in the UK. Nevertheless, the Innovator Founder visa is not a three-year-long visa which allows you to think of your next visa. It requires extensive planning, and a viable business concept. Additionally, you will have checkpoints with your endorsing body at 12 and 24 months into the visa. During these checkpoints, you must show that you have achieved the milestones specified in your initial business plan. Failure to do so may result in the withdrawal of your endorsement and therefore the visa. Utilize your time on the Graduate visa Presuming you have a genuine ambition to pursue entrepreneurship, it is imperative that you use your time on the Graduate visa wisely. One of the key requirements of the Innovator Founder visa is “viability”. This partially concerns your skills and abilities as a founder to successfully launch and scale the business. As such, previous entrepreneurial experience is a key assessment factor for the endorsing bodies. If you lack the aforementioned, you should use your time on the Graduate visa to: On the last point, launching your business, there is a key point to be aware of. The UK Government guidelines state that a business should not be trading upon the endorsement application. However, we have clarified this with one of the endorsing bodies. As long as you are the sole/key founding member of the business, and not join the business after its foundation, you will still qualify for endorsement. Don’t leave it to the last minute One of the worst, and most common mistakes, is leaving everything to the last minute. Planning a business, and producing the required documentation, for example the business plan, is a lengthy process. You should allocate at least 6–12 months (ideally more) before the expiry of your Graduate visa to this. Understand the practicalities of entrepreneurship Lastly, I wish to share some harsh realities of entrepreneurship that I learnt. As a former international student who pursued entrepreneurship after graduation in the UK, I believe I am qualified to share this. First, entrepreneurship is risky. You could do everything correctly, and even have success with the business. Yet, an adverse external event completely outside your control can crush your business. This is the reality of this path, and you should understand and accept this risk. Second, entrepreneurship can make you unemployable, particularly after you spend many years as a founder. I have written a separate article on this subject and I strongly encourage you to read it. Graduate visa to Innovator Founder | Working with me I assist clients interested in the Innovator Founder visa. For a full overview of my services, click on the button below. About | Business consultant and VC scout, specializing in helping founders access funding and scale internationally. At the age of 22, shortly after completing my master’s degree, I launched a PropTech startup under the endorsement of Newcastle University. Over the years, I grew my startup into a presence across 30+ UK cities, hired a total of 13 people, and, through my entrepreneurial journey, achieved both Indefinite Leave to Remain and British citizenship.
Exclusive Interview with Innovator International Director on the UK Innovator Founder Visa
An in-depth conversation with one of the UK’s official endorsing bodies for startup founders If you’re an international entrepreneur looking to establish a business in the UK, the Innovator Founder Visa is likely on your radar. As a business consultant supporting global founders, I’m excited to share a valuable new resource: a recorded interview with Richard Harrison, Director of Innovator International – one of the four UK government-appointed endorsing bodies for the Innovator Founder Visa. In this exclusive discussion, Richard offers clarity on what the endorsement process really involves, what Innovator International looks for in applicants, and how international founders can position themselves for success in the UK startup ecosystem. You can watch the full video here: What We Covered in the Interview The Innovator Founder route can be a powerful gateway for overseas entrepreneurs to build and scale their business in the UK. But the process of endorsement is not always well understood. During our conversation, Richard Harrison and I explored: This conversation is packed with real-world insights directly from someone at the forefront of UK startup migration. Why This Interview Matters The Innovator Founder Visa requires more than just a great idea – it demands a clear commercial strategy, credible business model, and alignment with UK market needs. Hearing directly from an endorsing body can be a game-changer for applicants seeking to avoid costly mistakes and increase their chances of success. Whether you’re: This video offers a transparent look into how endorsement works and how to prepare a competitive application. Full-Scale UK Innovator Founder Visa Support| How We Help Together with my business partner, Denis Menabit, a qualified and IAA-regulated immigration advisor, we offer a comprehensive, end-to-end service for international entrepreneurs applying for the Innovator Founder Visa. Our combined expertise covers both the commercial and immigration aspects of the application process: Whether you’re just getting started or require help refining your submission, we provide tailored support designed to increase your chances of a successful endorsement and visa approval. About | I’m Sohrab Vazir, a UK-based business consultant and VC scout. At 22, while studying as an international postgraduate student, I launched a Property Technology (PropTech) startup with the backing of Newcastle University. I expanded the business to over 30 cities across the UK, built a team of four, and ultimately secured both Indefinite Leave to Remain and British citizenship through my entrepreneurial journey. Today, I support founders in navigating international business mobility and uncovering strategic growth opportunities.
Should Funding be Incorporated in the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa Policy?
External funding can be a useful factor to determine a founder’s suitability under the UK Innovator Founder Visa. Many start-up visa schemes around the world, such as Canada, implement funding as a defining factor for applicants. In this article, I will look into the values that such as an approach may offer as well as some of the drawbacks. The “Innovation” requirements & its flaws The current Innovator Founder Visa is primarily based on applicants having concepts and/or businesses that are: On the surface, these factors are logical. However, in practice, the innovation requirement presents certain challenges. The UK Government’s guidance for Endorsing Bodies interprets innovation on the following basis: Below is the precise wording of the guidance for Endorsing Bodies by the UK Government. However, the issue that arises out of this interpretation primarily relates to “replicability”. Unless a concept is protected by intellectual property (IP) measures such as patents, most, if not all, ideas can be copied. Therefore, there are two ways forward to determine innovation and the viability of a founder and their concept, and these are: Expanding the definition of “innovation” I have recently created a video on how the Netherlands has a more suitable interpretation of innovation compared to the UK. The Dutch Government defines innovation per below: There are several aspects which make the Netherlands’ definition of innovation valuable, and some of them are: -Taking social enterprise into account-Consideration of organizational and process approach Funding as a suitability factor? Incorporating external funding as a measure of startup viability in startup visa programs makes sense because it signals the following key indicators of a startup’s potential and legitimacy. Proof of Market Validation Ability to Attract Resources Job Creation Potential Commitment and Long-Term Planning Attraction of Strategic Partnerships Risk Mitigation for the Host Country Global Competitiveness Support for Economic Development Goals Nevertheless, implementing funding as a requirement, rather than a complimentary factor has its own drawbacks. This is primarily due to the fact that it is often difficult for founders to raise funding at the idea stage. Moreover, many concepts require the founder and operations to be based in the UK, in order to gain the minimal viability to qualify for funding from an investment perspective. Way forward With the current Innovator Founder Visa being launched less than two years ago, time is a key factor to evaluate its efficacy. Nevertheless, the current visa regime has flaws, particularly in relation to interpreting innovation. Ideally, a points-based system, where funding is an optional factor to score additional points would prove to be a more sustainable model. Entrepreneurship and start-ups are defined by the core factor of “unpredictability”, and therefore flexibility is essential. 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 under the endorsement of Newcastle University. 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 Guidance
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 provide guidance regarding 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.
Patents: 4 Basic Facts
Patents are complex, and obtaining them is only part of the hurdle. As a business consultant working with innovative founders, I get a lot of questions about patents. While I am not a patent attorney, I will share 4 basic facts about patents that will give you an idea about protecting your intellectual property through this route. Obtaining patents is certainly a complex path. You must consult a patent attorney if you wish to do so. However, to get started, I will share 4 basic facts about patents that will give you an idea of what to expect. 1. Patents are expensive First of all, patents cost a lot. As an example, let’s look at the UK: Summary of Costs As you notice, the key costs are associated with patent attornies, which you must consult if you decide to file and register a patent. For more information on UK patent costs, check here. 2. Patents take time It takes time to register a patent. On average, you are looking at 1 to 2 years (although this may vary). However, the key principle is that, unlike trade marks, patents are more complex and time-consuming. 3. They are jurisdictional Similar to trade marks, patents usually cover a certain jurisdiction, for instance, the UK. If you wish to obtain multi-jurisdictional protection, there are higher fees. 4. Obtaining a patent is not the end Lastly, it should be noted that obtaining a patent is not the end of the line. Your competitors, often firms with more resources, will most likely seek to find a way around your patent or worse, get into a legal patent battle with you. And what must be noted is that these legal battles will cost you, a lot. If you are seeking to register a patent, it is important to consult a patent attorney. Working with me as your business consultant includes introducing you to one to ensure you obtain solid advice before making any decisions and investing your resources. 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. Now I help aspiring business owners and job seekers fulfil their potential.
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. 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: £5000 to £10,000 (this does not include the funds for your business). The initial costs are: Endorsement: £1200 Visa Application Fee: £1,191 (outside the UK) or £1486 (inside the UK) NHS Health Surcharge: ££1,035 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 various 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 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.
Advisory Programs now LIVE
In today’s dynamic business landscape, personalized guidance and support are invaluable assets on the path to success. Recognizing the diverse needs of individuals and enterprises, my tailored advisory programs are designed to empower migrants, founders, and enterprise alike. Let’s delve into how these programs can unlock potential, foster growth, and drive innovation. Empowering Founders Entrepreneurship is a journey fraught with challenges and opportunities. The programs equip founders with the tools and insights they need. Whether to navigate the complexities of employment or scaling a venture. From refining business models to accessing funding and market expansion strategies, I work hand-in-hand with founders to turn visions into reality. With personalised mentorship and actionable guidance, I empower founders to build resilient and impactful businesses. Empowering Migrants For migrants navigating new territories, my advisory programs offer a roadmap to prosperity. From navigating cultural nuances to accessing opportunities, I provide personalised strategies and mentorship to facilitate integration and success. By harnessing individual strengths and aspirations, I help migrants to thrive in their new environments and contribute meaningfully to society. Empowering Enterprise Innovation lies at the heart of every successful enterprise. The advisory programs offer tailored solutions to drive innovation, growth, and competitive advantage. Whether it’s optimizing operations, exploring new markets, or fostering a culture of innovation, I partner with enterprises to unlock their full potential. Through strategic guidance and implementation support, I enable enterprises to stay ahead of the curve and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving marketplace. At the core of my advisory programs lies a commitment to empowerment, growth, and impact. By tailoring my approach to the unique needs of migrants, founders, and enterprise, I unlock new possibilities and drive sustainable success. Join me on this transformative journey and unlock your full potential today! 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 entrepreneurs start their businesses.
Don’t make this mistake with Business and Startup Visas
Business and startup visas and international entrepreneurs are what and who I deal with on a daily basis. As someone who has embarked on the path of business visas as a foreign entrepreneur, I have learned a few lessons. Disclaimer: none of the content in this article, or website, constitute immigration advice in any shape or form. For professional immigration advice, please refer to a regulated immigration advisor or solicitor. If you are an international entrepreneur considering applying for a business or startup visa, there are quite a few things to consider. This may be one of the biggest challenges with foreign entrepreneurs. Starting a business is always hard work; add it to navigating immigration rules and you are bound to get things wrong. As such, in this article, I seek to prevent foreign entrepreneurs from making ONE fatal mistake, and that is underestimating the requirements of business and startup visas. Business & Startup visas may come with ongoing requirements Remember that under many visa paths such as the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa, there are ongoing milestones that founders must meet. In other words, getting a business or startup visa is just the beginning. Where do founders get it wrong? With the above in mind, founders usually underestimate startup and business visa requirements by either: These two mistakes can end up costing you money, time, energy and your health. It is vital that founders who consider startup and business visas are aware of this reality. Startup and business visas are not the means to obtain long-term residency/citizenship. It may be in certain countries, but it certainly is not the case with the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa. Remember to assess everything from a “business” perspective, rather than a “residency/immigration” one. What if residency is your goal? Entrepreneurship is not everyone’s forté, and I am not judging you for that. Perhaps you do wish to invest in commercial projects whilst obtaining an additional residency or citizenship. In these cases, it is better to consider residency or citizenship by investment programs offered by several countries across the world. Do not pursue a business or startup visa if your main priority is residency. Running a business has many uncertainties, and it should always be done for the purpose of generating profit unless we are speaking of non-profits. Any other goal is foundationally wrong for doing so. 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, and mainly with obtaining endorsements from the endorsing bodies.