This route typically leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years, although other options are available. e-lhr can help ensure the viability of the business plan and the likelihood of success of the immigration application.

You can apply for an Innovator visa if:

• you want to set up or run a business in the Isle of Man
• you meet the other eligibility requirements
• your business or business idea has been endorsed by the Department for Enterprise of the Isle of Man Government.

You must have at least £50,000 in investment funds if you want to set up a new business. You do not need funds if your business is already established and has been endorsed for an earlier visa.

You can apply to extend for another 3 years when your visa is due to expire. There’s no limit on the number of times you can extend.

You may be able to apply for settlement (known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) once you’ve been in the Isle of Man for 3 years.

What you can and can’t do

You can:

• Set up a business or several businesses
• Work for your business – this includes being employed as a director, or self-employed as a member of a business partnership
• Bring family members with you

You cannot:

• Do any work outside your business, for example, work where you’re employed by another business
• Work as a doctor or dentist in training
• Work as a professional sportsperson, for example, a sports coach
• Get public funds

Eligibility

• Before you apply you need to have your business or business idea assessed by the Department for Enterprise.
• They will provide you with an endorsement letter if your business is viable.
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to prove that you have enough personal savings to support yourself while you’re in the Isle of Man

e-lhr can help existing Entrepreneurs improve their chances of success in their applications for further leave to remain and ILR, which can be some of the most complex immigration applications: please contact us for details.