Innovator Founder Visa vs Skilled Worker Visa

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to whether you have a job offer lined up and how much control you want over your visa path. The Innovator Founder is built for entrepreneurs launching their own thing, while the Skilled Worker is the traditional employment route. Your employment status and business ambitions will determine which makes sense.

1. 01

   Employment situation

   Pick Innovator Founder

   Pick Innovator Founder if you're starting your own business and don't have a UK employer.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick Skilled Worker if you already have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor.

2. 02

   Visa cost

   Pick Innovator Founder

   Pick Innovator Founder if budget matters. It costs $1,580 versus $3,290 for Skilled Worker.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick Skilled Worker if cost isn't a primary concern and you have employer support.

3. 03

   Processing speed

   Pick Innovator Founder

   Pick Innovator Founder if you can wait 3-6 months for a decision on your application.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick Skilled Worker if you need faster processing, typically completed in 1-3 months.

4. 04

   Initial requirements

   Pick Innovator Founder

   Pick Innovator Founder if you can secure endorsement from an approved body and have 2+ years experience.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick Skilled Worker if you prefer no work experience requirement and have a job lined up.