Nigeria TV Info – International Education & Migration News

UK Approves New Policy Allowing International Students to Apply for Innovator Founder Visa Without Leaving the Country

International students currently studying in the United Kingdom will soon be able to apply for the Innovator Founder Visa without returning to their home countries, according to a newly approved immigration White Paper.

The updated 82-page White Paper, released in May and formally approved last month, introduces a more flexible pathway for foreign students who wish to establish and operate innovative businesses in the UK.

Under the new policy, eligible international students can apply for the Innovator Founder Visa if they plan to launch a business that is innovative, unique, and different from existing products or services in the market. The proposed business must also show strong potential for growth, the ability to create jobs, and the capacity to scale nationally and internationally.

The new visa route officially takes effect on November 25 and will be valid for three years. There is no limit to the number of times the visa can be extended. Importantly, successful applicants may be eligible to apply for UK settlement after completing three years under the visa.

This development is expected to attract more entrepreneurial talent into the United Kingdom’s growing innovation ecosystem, giving international students—including many from Nigeria—greater opportunities to transition from study to business development without the burden of travel or re-entry restrictions.