UK opens pathway for African students to switch to innovator founder visa without returning home

The move follows a major update to the UK’s immigration framework, which is set to take effect on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.

British officials say the change is designed to encourage high-potential graduates to build companies in the UK rather than take their ambitions elsewhere.

This gives them the freedom to begin establishing their businesses while their applications are being considered. A Home Office policy review described the shift as a measure that will remove a major barrier to entrepreneurship among international students.

The Innovator Founder visa supports graduates who want to create and operate a business that introduces something genuinely new to the market.

To qualify, applicants must secure an endorsement from an approved body and present a business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable.

The policy update is rooted in recommendations from the UK White Paper 2025, which called for reforms to ensure entrepreneurial talent already studying in the country can transition smoothly into building careers there.

A student can only begin business activities if they have submitted their Innovator Founder application, are holding a valid Study visa, and have secured an endorsement.