If you are searching for a UK entrepreneur visa, you will find plenty of old advice about routes that no longer exist. Here is where things stand.
Closed routes
- Tier 1 (Entrepreneur): closed to new applicants in 2019.
- Start-up visa: closed to new applicants on 13 April 2023.
- Innovator visa: replaced by the Innovator Founder visa on 13 April 2023.
If you already hold one of the older visas, different rules may apply to extending or settling. Get advice specific to your case.
What to use instead
- Innovator Founder visa: the only current route for setting up and running your own business. You need an endorsement from an approved body. See who can endorse you.
- Global Talent visa: for leaders and potential leaders in fields such as digital technology, research and the arts. It lets you work for yourself without a sponsor.
- Scale-up visa: if you want to join a fast-growing UK business rather than start your own.
- Global Business Mobility: if you are an overseas business sending staff, or a representative, to set up a UK presence.
Be wary of
Websites and agents still selling “entrepreneur visas” or Start-up endorsements. Only bodies on the Home Office list can endorse you, and none of them can endorse for a closed route.
Source: GOV.UK endorsing bodies publication.
Talk to a regulated adviser
Every route has its own traps. A specialist can check your plan before you commit time and money to it.
Business and private client firmsBrowse all solicitorsLast checked: 2 November 2026. General information, not legal advice. See our disclaimer.