The UK government has announced that holders of the Innovator Founder visa can apply for permanent residency after three years of residence, provided they meet specific requirements. According to UK Home Office guidance, applicants must have spent the qualifying three years in the UK on an Innovator Founder visa or the earlier Innovator visa. Time spent in the country on other visa types does not count towards the requirement. This new development offers a fast-tracked route to permanent residency for eligible applicants.
To be eligible, applicants must also have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the qualifying period. This requirement ensures that applicants have been primarily resident in the UK during the three-year period. The application process involves submitting an application up to 28 days before meeting the three-year requirement, with a fee of £3,226 per person. A decision can take up to six months from submission or from the collection of biometric information at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services centre.
Successful applicants will be granted indefinite leave to remain, allowing them to live, work, and study in the UK without a time limit. They may also access benefits if eligible and can later pursue British citizenship. The UK government has emphasized that applicants must remain in the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man while their application is being considered. Travelling beyond those areas during that period will automatically withdraw the application.
The Innovator Founder visa is one of the UK's visa categories that offers a route to permanent residency. This visa category is designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish a business in the UK. By offering a fast-tracked route to permanent residency, the UK government aims to attract and retain talented entrepreneurs and business leaders. The application process involves meeting specific requirements and submitting a comprehensive application.
Applicants who are not yet eligible for settlement may need to renew their visa first. The Home Office advises people not to wait until their current visa expires. Those who are eligible can submit their application up to 28 days before they meet the three-year requirement. Applying earlier could lead to refusal, emphasizing the importance of meeting the eligibility criteria.
Shillah Mwadosho, an accredited journalist and general news reporter at TUKO.co.ke, reported on this development. With over six years of experience in journalism across radio, television, and print media, Mwadosho has provided insightful coverage of various topics. Her work has been instrumental in disseminating information to the public.
In conclusion, the UK government's announcement offers a new opportunity for Innovator Founder visa holders to apply for permanent residency. By meeting specific requirements, eligible applicants can fast-track their route to indefinite leave to remain. This development is expected to attract and retain talented entrepreneurs and business leaders in the UK.
Key points
- Applicants must have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during the qualifying period.
- The application fee for indefinite leave to remain is £3,226 per person.
- Successful applicants can live, work, and study in the UK without a time limit and may later pursue British citizenship.
