Your Journey

The complete Innovator Founder route — from your first conversation to permanent UK residence. Each stage is mapped out so you know exactly what happens, when it happens, and what is expected.

1

Discovery & Assessment

1-2 weeks

We have an initial conversation about your situation, your business idea, and your goals. I assess whether the Innovator Founder route is right for you and give you an honest picture of what is involved.

What we do: Free consultation, eligibility check, route recommendation
What you do: Share your idea, background, and goals
2

Business Plan Development

4-6 weeks

We build your business plan together. Market research, financial modelling, competitive analysis, and the complete plan document. This is not a template — it is built around your specific idea and market.

What we do: Market research, financial model, plan writing, pitch deck
What you do: Participate in workshops, provide industry knowledge
3

Endorsement Application

4-8 weeks

We submit your application to an endorsing body, prepare you for the interview with mock sessions, and manage the process until you receive your endorsement letter.

What we do: Application assembly, interview coaching, liaison with endorsing body
What you do: Attend mock interviews, respond to queries
4

Visa Application

3-8 weeks

With endorsement secured, we prepare and submit your visa application to the Home Office. Every document organised, every form completed correctly.

What we do: Document compilation, application submission, tracking
What you do: Provide documents, attend biometric appointment
5

UK Arrival & Business Setup

2-4 weeks

You arrive in the UK. We handle company formation, HMRC registration, bank account, and everything needed to start trading.

What we do: Company formation, registrations, introductions to accountant and partners
What you do: Sign documents, attend meetings
6

Business Growth

Ongoing (3 years)

This is where most consultancies disappear. We stay. Regular strategy sessions, marketing support, progress tracking against ILR criteria.

What we do: Monthly reviews, marketing guidance, ILR criteria tracking
What you do: Build and run your business
7

Contact Point Meetings

Month 6, 12, 24

Your endorsing body requires check-in meetings during the 3-year period. We prepare you for each one and ensure your business meets expectations.

What we do: Meeting preparation, documentation, coaching
What you do: Attend meetings with endorsing body
8

ILR Application

8-12 weeks

After 3 years, we prepare your Indefinite Leave to Remain application. Evidence of business activity, achievement criteria met, fresh endorsement secured.

What we do: Evidence compilation, fresh endorsement, ILR application
What you do: Provide business records, take Life in the UK Test
9

Permanent Settlement

Permanent

ILR granted. The UK is your permanent home. You can apply for British citizenship after 12 months of ILR if you choose.

What we do: Citizenship guidance if desired
What you do: Enjoy permanent UK residence
Back to Immigration & Travel Consulting

Disclaimer: Nikki Gul Consulting is not a regulated immigration, visa, or legal services provider. Our consulting services are advisory in nature and do not guarantee approval of any applications or legal outcomes. Where regulated immigration or legal advice is required, clients should seek assistance from a qualified and authorised immigration adviser or solicitor.

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