Start-up Endorsement Scheme (SES)

The Start-up Endorsement Scheme (SES) provides Start-up visa endorsement to graduates and young entrepreneurs seeking to setup UK businesses. It aims to channel innovation into the UK economy.

​

Eligibility

​

You can apply to the Start-up Endorsement Scheme (SES) if:

​

• You want to setup or run a business in the UK

• You have a business proposition that is innovative, viable and scalable

• You're from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland

• You meet the other eligibility requirements

​

You do not need to demonstrate any investment funds to apply for the Start-up visa, but if you do, this will strengthen the case that your business meets the 'viable' requirement.

​

How to apply

​

The Innovate in Britain selection process involves 3 screening stages.

​

To initiate your application you must complete an initial online application to check your suitability for the Start-up visa.

​

If your application is successful, you will be invited to provide further details on your business. You may also be invited to attend a telephone and face-to-face interview. If you are successful at this stage, you will be awarded endorsement.

​

Once you have received endorsement, you can apply to the Home Office for a Start-up visa.

​

What happens after endorsement

​

Once you have received endorsement from Innovate in Britain, we will monitor the progress you make on your business at checkpoints 6, 12 and 24 months from your initial endorsement.