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⚠️ Important Visa Information
If you are currently on a Student visa, please note that you cannot start or run a business while on this visa. This restriction forms part of the conditions of your Student visa, and it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with those conditions.
If you intend to start a company in the UK after completing your studies, you will need to transition to a different visa. The Student Immigration Service provides comprehensive guidance on visa options for working in the UK after your studies.
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This is Not Official Legal Advice.
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Student Immigration Service The Student Immigration Service provides comprehensive guidance on visa applications, renewals, and compliance. This should be your first stop for any student visa-related inquiries.
Please note: According to the University of Edinburgh Student Immigration Service (as of the start of the 2024/25 academic year), you are not allowed to engage in business activity while on a Student visa.
For full details, please check the Student Immigration guidance on self-employment and business activity.
In the UK only OISC registered immigration advisers (or solicitors, barristers and members of approved professional bodies) are legally able to provide immigration and asylum advice and services to the public.
This means that the student enterprise team cannot provide legal advice on your individual visa situation.
UKVI Right to Work Check Employers may ask for proof of your right to work in the UK—use this tool to generate the necessary documentation.
The Graduate visa is a post-study work visa that enables you to remain in the UK for:
This visa provides flexibility to work or seek employment while developing your business idea.
Switching to a Graduate Visa How to transition from a Student visa to a Graduate visa to continue staying in the UK.
Dependants & Family Visas Guidance for students bringing family members to the UK.
The Innovator Founder Visa is a new visa that replaces the Start-up and Innovator visas. To be eligible, you must:
Edinburgh Innovations support
We can help you develop your business plans and prepare for your endorsement application. Schedule a 1-to-1 meeting with an advisor to discuss further.
Note: The Student Immigration Service cannot provide advice for Innovator Founder visa applications. If you need help with your application, we recommend that you consult a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor:
You could apply for the Global Talent visa to work in the UK if you’re a leader or potential leader in academia or research, arts and culture, or digital technology.
Endorsement Process
Most applicants require an endorsement from a recognised UK body, unless they have won an eligible award. The endorsement process involves a review by an expert body in the applicant's field.
Endorsement Criteria
The Global Talent visa offers significant flexibility and opportunities for skilled professionals to advance their careers in the UK.
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⚠️ Important Note on Endorsements
The University will no longer act as a Legacy Endorsing Body after December 2025. This means that re-endorsements will no longer be available beyond this date.
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The University of Edinburgh/Edinburgh Innovations is now a “Legacy Endorsing Body” for the Innovator Founder route. This status means we can only endorse applicants who already hold a valid Start-up or Innovator visa that was originally endorsed by us and is due for renewal.
Please note that this no longer applies after December 2025. The final panel for re-endorsement will take place on 30th October 2025, and no re-endorsements will be available beyond this date.
If you are taking part in the October 30th re-endorsement panel - Please complete and submit the appropriate application form to apply for endorsement:
If you have any questions about visas for founders, please email [email protected].