14. Applying for Dependents from Within the UK (Extension or Switch) for UK Innovator Founder Visa

Eligibility and Conditions

If you choose to extend or switch your Innovator Founder visa, your spouse or child’s existing visa will remain valid until its initial expiration date. However, they must apply to extend or switch their visa under the following conditions:

• Simultaneously with your application
• At any point before their current visa expires

This applies to children who have turned 18 during your stay in the UK as well.

Ineligible Circumstances

Your spouse or children will not be eligible to apply for an Innovator Founder visa switch if they are in the UK under any of the following circumstances:

• On a visit visa
• On a short-term student visa
• On a Parent of a Child Student visa
• On a seasonal worker visa
• On a domestic worker in a private household visa
• On immigration bail
• Granted permission to stay outside immigration rules, such as on compassionate grounds

Application Process

The application form will indicate whether you can include your spouse and children in your application or if they must apply separately. If they need to apply individually, they must either:

• Extend or switch to an Innovator Founder visa as your spouse
• Extend or switch to an Innovator Founder visa as your child

They will need your application number, known as a Global Web Form (GWF) or Unique Application Number (UAN), which you will receive upon applying. This number can be found in emails and letters from the Home Office regarding your application.

Biometric Information and Supporting Documents

As part of their application, they will be required to schedule an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph. They must also submit supporting documents, which can be uploaded to the online service or scanned during their UKVCAS appointment.

Travel Restrictions

It is crucial that they refrain from traveling outside the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until they receive a decision, as doing so will result in the withdrawal of their application.

Expediting the Decision

In some cases, they may have the option to pay for a faster decision. They will be informed of this possibility during the application process.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth application process for your spouse and children seeking to extend or switch their visas while in the UK. Providing accurate information and adhering to deadlines is essential to increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.