Starting November 25, 2025, the UK government will officially allow international students to switch to the Innovator Founder visa from within the country. This is a major shift that removes the previous requirement for students to travel back home before applying, a process that often caused delays, extra costs, and uncertainty.

The Innovator Founder visa is designed for individuals who want to establish or run an innovative, scalable business in the UK. With the new rule, the transition from graduation to entrepreneurship becomes more seamless.

You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to an Innovator Founder visa if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.

● Your partner or child’s visa will not automatically switch if you switch yours.

● Dependants can apply at the same time as you, or any time before their current visa expires.

● You must apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You can apply to switch to this visa if you meet the eligibility requirements. If you are currently on a Student Visa, one of the following must also apply:

● You have completed the course you were sponsored to study

● You are studying full-time for a PhD, and have been for at least 24 months

Who Cannot Apply

You cannot switch to this visa if you hold:

● A visit visa

● A short-term student visa

● A Parent of a Child Student visa

● A seasonal worker visa

● A domestic worker in a private household visa

● Immigration Bail

● Permission to stay outside the immigration rules (e.g., on compassionate grounds)

Duration of Stay

● You can stay for 3 years after switching to the Innovator Founder visa.

● There’s no limit on the number of times you can extend your visa.

If you’ve been in the UK for less than 1 year, you must prove you have enough money to support yourself.

Applicants must have £1,270 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days, held legally and not from investment capital or illegal work.

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity. This depends on your country of origin and passport type. 

This new pathway removes barriers and opens a clear route for graduates to start businesses immediately after completing their studies. With the Innovator Founder visa, you can:

● Operate your business legally in the UK

● Engage in limited study if required

● Bring dependants to join or remain with you

● Move in and out of the country under single or multiple entry rules

● This visa also positions you for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 3 years, making it a strategic path for long-term settlement while growing your business.

Action

If you are a current international student, now is the time to prepare:

● Refine your business idea

● Gather financial and identity documents

● Connect with approved endorsing bodies

● Prepare dependants if they will apply

● Seek expert guidance to ensure your application meets all requirements

At 365 Global Consulting, we help students navigate these changes confidently, making sure your transition is smooth.

Your entrepreneurial future in the UK is closer than ever. Let’s help you take that step.