Important update for international students looking to build their future in the UK. Since 25 November 2025, eligible international students are able to switch directly into the Innovator Founder visa from within the UK, without needing to leave the country to make their application.
This change marks a significant improvement to the UK’s immigration system. It removes the need for graduates to travel abroad before applying, an often time-consuming and costly step and instead offers a more streamlined route for those ready to pursue entrepreneurship after completing their studies.
At a time when many students are considering their post-study options, this update provides a clearer and more accessible pathway to launching innovative businesses in the UK.
What Is the Innovator Founder Visa?
The Innovator Founder visa is designed for individuals who wish to establish or run a business that is innovative, viable, and scalable. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be endorsed by an approved endorsing body
- Be at least 18 years old
- Meet the English language requirement
- Show sufficient personal savings
- Provide evidence of a credible business idea and, where applicable, its funding source
This route is intended for genuine entrepreneurs with fresh, creative, and commercially promising business plans.
Key Requirements for Switching Within the UK
International students switching to the Innovator Founder visa must demonstrate that they meet all standard eligibility criteria, as well as specific financial requirements.
1. Personal Savings Requirement
Applicants must show they have at least £1,270 in personal savings, held for 28 consecutive days before the date of application.
Important notes:
- These funds must be personal savings, not investment capital.
- The money cannot come from illegal work or unapproved income sources.
- Students switching from a Student visa or Graduate visa are eligible to use savings held within the UK.
2. Business Funding
Those starting a new business must be able to demonstrate credible funding sources, unless:
- The business was previously endorsed, or
- It was already approved after recent policy changes
Applicants must demonstrate that the business is innovative and capable of growth in the UK market.
What the Innovator Founder Visa Allows
The Innovator Founder visa provides a flexible framework for business-minded graduates. Successful applicants may:
- Establish or run their business in the UK
- Engage in limited study
- Bring dependants, including partners and children
- Enter the UK on either a single-entry or multiple-entry basis, depending on their situation
This visa also creates a long-term pathway with potential for future settlement, depending on business performance and compliance with reporting requirements.
Why This Change Matters
Allowing in-country switching removes several barriers for talented international graduates:
- No need to leave the UK to apply
- Reduced interruption to business planning and set-up
- Faster progression from university to entrepreneurship
- A more supportive environment for innovation and investment
This policy supports the UK’s goal of attracting high-potential entrepreneurs and retaining global talent educated in its universities.
Planning Your Application
If you’re an international student considering switching to the Innovator Founder visa, now is a good time to:
- Review potential business ideas
- Seek endorsement advice early
- Ensure your savings meet the 28-day requirement
- Speak with an immigration adviser to understand your full eligibility
At Stay UK, our team supports students and graduates in preparing strong Innovator Founder applications, liaising with endorsing bodies, and ensuring compliance with Home Office rules.