6. Permitted and Prohibited Activities for UK Innovator Founder Visa
Permitted Activities
Holding an Innovator Founder visa allows you to:
- Establish one or multiple businesses: You can set up and run one or more businesses in the UK, giving you the flexibility to diversify and expand your entrepreneurial ventures.
- Work for your business(es): You can work as a director or self-employed member of a business partnership, allowing you to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of your business.
- Engage in skilled work outside your business: You can take up skilled work outside your business, such as jobs listed on the Skilled Worker eligible occupations list or roles requiring at least a Level 3 qualification. This provides an opportunity to supplement your income and gain additional experience.
- Bring your eligible partner and children to the UK as dependents: Your partner and dependent children under 18 can join you in the UK, allowing you to maintain family unity while pursuing your business ventures.
- Travel overseas and re-enter the UK: You can travel abroad and return to the UK without restrictions, ensuring that you can maintain international connections and attend to business obligations abroad.
- Apply for permanent settlement in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’): After residing in the UK for three years and fulfilling the other eligibility criteria, you can apply for permanent settlement, providing a clear pathway to long-term residency.
Prohibited Activities
However, with an Innovator Founder visa, you are not allowed to:
- Work as a professional sportsperson: You cannot engage in professional sports, such as coaching, as this is not considered a permitted activity under this visa.
- Apply for most public funds, including the State Pension: You are not eligible to receive most public funds, including the State Pension, as a condition of your visa.
Compliance and Monitoring
To ensure compliance with the visa requirements, your endorsing body will conduct regular checks, typically at 12 and 24 months post-visa issuance. These checks assess your adherence to the initial business plan and evaluate sales growth, job creation, and investment progress. Failure to demonstrate sufficient progress can result in the withdrawal of your endorsement.
Conclusion
The UK Innovator Founder Visa offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in the UK while providing a pathway to permanent settlement. By understanding the permitted and prohibited activities, you can maximize the benefits of your visa and ensure compliance with UK regulations. If you have any questions or concerns about the Innovator Founder Visa, feel free to ask.
