Start-Up Visa

For early-stage entrepreneurs in the UK for the first time: requires endorsement.

Reviewed by Border & Boundaries Immigration Team·Last updated 30 Aug 2026

Overview

The Start-up visa is for entrepreneurs starting their first business in the UK. You need endorsement from an approved body but do not need investment funds. The visa is granted for 2 years and is not extendable, you must switch to Innovator Founder to remain.

Overview & Eligibility

What is the Start-up visa?

The Start-up route is for people starting their first business in the UK who obtain endorsement for an innovative, viable, and scalable idea. Investment funds are not required at endorsement stage, unlike some older investor routes.

Who may qualify

You may qualify if you have not previously established a business in the UK, secure endorsement from an approved body, meet English requirements, and intend to work on the endorsed venture. The visa is usually granted for two years.

What happens after two years

Start-up leave is not extendable. Before it expires, you may need to switch to Innovator Founder (with fresh endorsement) or another eligible route. Early planning avoids gaps in lawful status.

Requirements & Evidence

Endorsement and first-business test

Evidence should show you have not previously run a UK business and that your idea is endorsed. Letters from endorsing bodies and a strong business plan are essential.

English language

B2 English is usually required unless exempt. Test certificates must be valid at application date.

Business traction plans

Even at start-up stage, endorsers expect credible market research, milestones, and founder commitment. Weak plans often fail at endorsement, not at visa stage.

Applying, Costs & Refusals

How to apply

Obtain endorsement, then apply online for Start-up leave with your endorsement reference and documents. Biometrics apply. Track the two-year limit and plan a switch to Innovator Founder if you intend to remain.

Costs & processing time

Pay endorsing body fees plus Home Office application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge where applicable. Amounts change — as of 2026 we confirm the full cost picture before you apply.

Common reasons applications are refused

Applicant not genuinely a first-time UK entrepreneur
Endorsement withdrawn or business plan not credible
English or identity documents inadequate
Failure to plan switch before visa expiry
Undeclared previous visa refusals or breaches

Key Requirements

First Business	Must not have previously established a business in the UK
Endorsement	Business idea endorsed by approved body
Innovation	Idea must be innovative, viable, and scalable
Duration	2 years, must switch to Innovator Founder to extend

Typical Supporting Documents

Endorsement letter
Business plan
Valid passport
English language evidence (B2)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need investment funds for a UK Start-up visa?

You do not need to show a minimum investment pot for Start-up endorsement in the same way as historic investor routes. Endorsers still expect a viable plan and may look at how you will fund early trading.

Can I extend a Start-up visa after two years?

Start-up leave is generally not extendable. You may switch to Innovator Founder or another route if you meet requirements before your leave expires.

Which endorsing bodies accept Start-up visa applications?

Only Home Office-approved endorsing bodies can endorse Start-up and Innovator Founder ideas. Each body focuses on different sectors — we help match your idea to a suitable body.

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