International students in the United Kingdom will beeligible for an Innovator Founder visa without having to leave the countryafter meeting certain requirements. The idea was floated in a bulky 82-page immigration WhitePaper released in May and was approved last month. The pathway replaces a similar provision that previouslyapplied to those switching into the start-up route, which is now closed to newapplications. Foreign students can apply for an Innovator Founder visathey want to set up and run an innovative business in the UK, different fromanything else on the market.The business must have a potential for growth anddemonstrate evidence of creating jobs and growing into national andinternational markets. The visa route takes effect on November 25, with a durationof three years. There are no limits on the number of times it can be extended,and applicants may be able to apply for settlement once they have been in theUK for 3 years. To apply, applicant must have their business (idea) assessedby an endorsing body, meet an English language requirement, be at least 18years old, and have enough personal savings of at least £1,270. However, applicants will need to meet with their endorsingbody after 12 months and 24 months to show business progress. The changes came the same week foreign students were handed18 months to find employment after graduation, down from the current two years. The Home Office said the changes which take effect fromJanuary 1, 2027, were necessary to ensure graduates contribute effectively tothe economy.
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