United Kingdom

Citizenship by Investment Overview

Investment

Innovative, scaling business

Key Benefit

The right to live, work, and study anywhere in the United Kingdom

UK Innovator Founder Visa

The Innovator Founder Visa is aimed at those who can demonstrate relevant experience in business and sufficient investment funds to set up and grow a new business in the UK.

Before one applies, one needs to have one’s business or business idea assessed by a Home Office–approved endorsing body. They will assess the viability of the business or business idea and, if approved, provide an endorsement letter to submit with the application.

Successful innovators are granted leave for three years at a time and can bring their family members to the UK. After three years, innovators can apply to extend their stay for a further three years or to settle permanently in the UK under indefinite leave to remain (ILR). Each of these three stages (initial application, extension, settlement) requires endorsement from an endorsing body.

Benefits of UK Residence by Investment

- Permanent residence possible after three years
- International business environment
- Attractive tax regime for individuals who are resident but not domiciled
- Direct international flight connections to most major global cities
- World-renowned schools and universities

Requirements for UK Residence by Investment

Applicants must:

Be at least 18 years of age
Have a new and viable business idea with a potential for growth, supported by an endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body
Demonstrate sufficient investment funds to set up and grow their business
Be the sole or an instrumental member of the business’s founding team
Have the ability to speak English according to CEFR intermediate Level B2

The new business must meet the following three criteria:

Innovation: An original, genuine business plan that meets new or existing market needs and/or creates a competitive advantage
Viability: A realistic and achievable business plan, based on the available resources. Applicants must have, or be actively developing, the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and market awareness to successfully run their business
Scalability: Evidence of structured planning and potential for job creation and growth into national and international markets

Procedure for the UK Innovator Founder Program

The completed application and supporting documentation must be submitted to the diplomatic post in the applicant’s country of residence. The time frame from the submission of the application is dependent on the embassy receiving the application.

Upon expiry of the initial three-year period, the main applicant must apply for an ‘extension of stay’ from within the UK. The authorities will issue the applicant with a three-year extension if all relevant criteria are met. Upon being granted settlement and spending a minimum of five years in the UK (the applicant must have held ILR in the last 12 months of that period), it is possible to apply for British citizenship.

Business owners may seek secondary employment in the country, provided it falls under skilled labor.

Detailed information on the Innovator Founder Visa is available on the Home Office website. This information is not intended to be immigration advice.

United Kingdom Residence by Investment Frequently Asked Questions

What is the United Kingdom residence by investment program?

The United Kingdom residence by investment program, known as the UK Innovator Founder Program, grants residence to individuals and their families in exchange for significant, innovative and scaling business creation.
What are the investment options available for the UK Innovator Founder Program?

The investment requires a viable, endorsed business idea and sufficient investment funds. They must be key members of the founding team and meet criteria for innovation, viability, and scalability in their business plan.
What are the benefits of obtaining UK residence through investment?

Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in the UK, visa-free travel to many countries, and access to an international business environment and world-class healthcare and education.
What is the minimum investment required for the UK Innovator Founder Program?

There is no minimum investment, but the investor must have the required funds to create an innovative and scalable business.
How long does it take to process an application for the UK Innovator Founder Program?

Processing times for residence by investment applications may vary. Please contact us to find out more.
Can family members be included in the UK Innovator Founder Program application?

Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse and dependent children in their application.
What are the residence requirements for the UK Innovator Founder Program?

Applicants must reside in the UK for at least three years, with absences not exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period to maintain their residence status.
What documents are required for the UK Innovator Founder Program application?

Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment or contribution, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain UK citizenship through the residence by investment program?

Yes, five years after obtaining indefinite leave to remain, investors may be eligible to apply for UK citizenship.
What is the process for applying to the UK Innovator Founder Program?

The business idea must be assessed by an endorsing body before applying to the Home Office. Applicants must then submit the application with the necessary documents and undergo a due diligence process.

Country Information

The UK is one of the most attractive destinations in the world both as a business location and a private residence.
It is well located between the USA and Europe and is known for having a stable democratic government and a
respected system of law.

Population:	68 million
Languages:	English
Economy:	Leading trading and financial center, third largest in Europe
Currency:	British pound

An Overview of the United Kingdom

The UK is one of the most attractive places in the world to live and do business in.

Economic Heart of the World

London is a leading global city and, alongside New York, one of the world’s most influential financial centers. It is a cosmopolitan city and caters for every taste and culture. London is home to the corporate headquarters of numerous multi-national corporations, financial institutions, professional firms, and other major organizations. The time zone falls between the USA and Asia and the nation is, therefore, an ideal location in the globalized business world.

Political Stability and Safety

The UK is internationally renowned for having a stable democratic government. It has a respected system of law that has been adopted by many countries across the globe including Australia, Canada, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the USA. London has its own elected mayor and assembly that deal exclusively with improving the city.

Ease of Travel and Mobility

In this time of increased globalization, the UK is one of the best locations for travel and mobility. London has high-speed rail links to Brussels, Paris, and onwards to the rest of Europe, as well as mainline links to the rest of the UK. London is the busiest airport city in the world, boasting five international airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, Luton, and Stansted.

Education

The UK is home to some of the best educational institutions, from pre-school to university.

Leading global universities such as Imperial College, King’s College, London Business School, London School of Economics, and University College London all have an excellent international reputation and are based in London. These institutions of academic excellence attract students from across the world. Henley & Partners, in collaboration with one of the leading education consultants in the UK, can assist our clients to find the best schools for their children.

Ownership of Property

The registration of land title in the UK is established and land title is guaranteed. When one purchases a property in the UK, the conveyancing is done by solicitors who are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Funds used to acquire properties are held in designated and separate client accounts of nominated solicitors of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Accredited surveyors are used to value and survey all properties prior to exchange of contracts. Property in the UK can be held as freehold or leasehold.

Health Care

The UK is well known for its National Health Service, which provides excellent free health care. However, it is also recommended to take out personal health insurance with a reputable company to cover costs of private medical care. The UK boasts some of the best medical care facilities in the world.

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