The UK's Entrepreneurial Immigration Routes
The UK has a strong tradition of welcoming ambitious entrepreneurs. Immigration routes for business founders and innovators have evolved considerably. ZAM Law Associates advises on the current landscape and helps entrepreneurs choose and navigate the most appropriate route.
Start-up Visa (Legacy Route)
The Start-up visa was available to those starting a business for the first time in the UK. It required endorsement from an approved body. In 2024, this route was closed to new applicants and replaced by the Innovator Founder visa. However, those currently on the Start-up visa may still need advice on extending their leave or switching to the Innovator Founder route. We advise on transition strategies.
Innovator Founder Visa (Current Route)
The Innovator Founder visa is the current route for experienced entrepreneurs who want to set up or run a business in the UK. Key requirements include:
- Endorsement from an approved endorsing body confirming the business is innovative, viable and scalable
- English language at CEFR B2 level or above
- £50,000 investment funds for new ventures (often waived for businesses already incorporated and trading)
- Settlement is available after 3 years if business milestones are met
We advise on business plans, endorsing body selection, and the full application process from initial eligibility assessment through to submission and beyond.
Scale-up Visa
The Scale-up visa is for highly skilled workers joining a Home Office-approved scale-up company. Unlike the Skilled Worker route, it offers considerable flexibility — after 6 months you can work for any employer in the UK. The salary threshold is £33,000 or more per year. It does not lead directly to ILR; you must switch to another route for settlement. We advise on eligibility and the route to long-term settlement.
Choosing the Right Route
Entrepreneurs and innovators often ask us which route is most suitable. The answer depends on a range of factors:
- Whether you already have a business established and trading
- Your sector and the type of innovation you are bringing
- Your level of experience and track record as an entrepreneur
- Your available financial resources and funding position
- Your long-term plans for settlement and citizenship
We provide a holistic route assessment before any application is made, ensuring you understand every option available to you and the realistic prospects of each.
Key Services
Innovator Founder
Expert guidance on the current main entrepreneurial immigration route into the UK.
Scale-up Visa
Advice for highly skilled workers joining approved high-growth companies.
Business Plan
Support in drafting and structuring a business plan that meets endorsing body requirements.
Endorsement Support
Identification of the right endorsing body for your sector and assistance throughout.
Our Process
Route Assessment
We review your background, business idea and circumstances to identify the most appropriate immigration route.
Endorsement Application
We assist in selecting an endorsing body, preparing your business plan and submitting the endorsement application.
Visa Application
Once endorsed, we prepare and submit your visa application, including all supporting documents.
Milestone Review
We advise on the milestone requirements for ILR at the 3-year stage, including evidence preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
An endorsing body is an organisation approved by the Home Office to assess whether a business idea meets the innovative, viable, and scalable criteria. Different bodies cover different sectors. We advise on which body suits your industry and how to approach the endorsement process effectively.
No. You can apply with a business plan for a business not yet started. The endorsing body assesses the idea itself — its originality, market potential, and your ability to execute. What matters is the strength of the idea and your credentials as an entrepreneur.
You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you have met the business milestones assessed by the endorsing body — active business, creation of economic value, and progress toward your original goals. We prepare the full milestone evidence package on your behalf.