Start Your Business Journey in Europe with Startup Visa Portugal
Transform your innovative idea into a thriving business in Portugal with our expert guidance. Gain residency, access a dynamic startup ecosystem, and unlock opportunities across the Schengen Zone.
How to Apply for the Startup Visa Portugal
To apply for the Startup Visa Portugal, submit a detailed business plan on the Startup Portugal platform. Innova supports all steps, including evaluation by certified incubators. The project must be innovative, generate jobs, and promote technology. Once approved, use the certification to apply for a residence visa.
Submit Application
Prepare a detailed business plan and submit all required documents to the Startup Portugal platform.
Incubator Evaluation
Certified incubators assess the project’s feasibility and decide on acceptance.
Innovative Business Project
The idea must be innovative, generate jobs, and advance technology or knowledge in Portugal. Projects should focus on technologically advanced products, services, or processes.
Government Certification
The Institute for Support to Small and Medium Enterprises and Innovation reviews the proposal and, if approved, issues a certification of acceptance.
Apply for a Visa
Use the certification to apply for a residence visa through a Portuguese consulate or in Portugal.
Why Choose the Startup Visa Portugal?
Residence in Portugal
Live and grow your business in Portugal for up to 5 years, with eligibility for permanent residency afterward.
Integration into the Local Ecosystem
Access incubator support, a thriving startup community, and opportunities to connect with investors and strategic partners.
Schengen Zone Mobility
Enjoy free travel across Schengen Area countries.
What is the Startup Visa Portugal?
The Startup Visa Portugal program is designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs outside the European Union who want to establish or expand innovative businesses in Portugal. It aims to boost the Portuguese economy by creating jobs and strengthening the startup ecosystem.
Are You Eligible for the Startup Visa Portugal?
Innovative Business Project
The idea must be innovative, generate jobs, and advance technology or knowledge in Portugal.
Projects should focus on technologically advanced products, services, or processes.
Certified Incubator
Entrepreneurs must be accepted by a certified incubator recognized by the Portuguese government, which provides support and mentorship.
Proof of Financial Resources
Applicants must demonstrate financial resources equivalent to at least 12 times the Portuguese minimum wage. Additionally, the founder or co-founders must provide evidence of cash flow capacity to sustain and operate the business during its first year.
Streamlining Your Startup Visa Portugal Journey with Expert Guidance
Navigating the Startup Visa Portugal program can be complex, but the process becomes smoother and faster with Innova In by your side. Here’s how we ensure your success.
Business Understanding and Incubator Connection
We start by understanding your business, crafting a professional pitch deck and business plan, and introducing you to our partnered incubators. This critical step streamlines the process, as many applicants face delays when incubators don’t review their applications promptly. With our pre-vetted connections, your project gets the attention it deserves.
Application Submission and Follow-Up
Once your application is prepared, we submit it to the Startup Portugal platform as the first step. We then notify the incubators in our network that your application is ready for analysis, ensuring it is prioritized and reviewed on time and reducing unnecessary delays.
Requirement Alignment
We ensure you meet all the program’s requirements, supporting you directly or connecting you with professionals from our trusted directory to fill any gaps.
Immigration Application
Our partnered immigration lawyers will submit your finalized application to the Portuguese authorities, ensuring accuracy and following up on the process to prevent delays.
Soft Landing Support
After visa approval, we will assist you with settling in Portugal, guiding you through the next steps for establishing your business and integrating it into the local ecosystem.
How Long Does It Take?
The application and evaluation process typically takes 4 to 7 months, depending on the project's complexity and the documentation's completeness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as an innovative business project?
An innovative business project introduces new products, services, or processes that advance technology or knowledge in Portugal. Your idea could create jobs, contribute to the economy, and enhance the country’s startup ecosystem. It must also demonstrate scalability and the ability to succeed in competitive markets.
Do I need a Portuguese business partner to apply?
You do not need a Portuguese business partner to apply for the Startup Visa in Portugal. However, you must be accepted by a certified incubator in Portugal, which will provide the necessary support and mentorship for your business. Innova In can assist in connecting you with pre-vetted incubators to streamline this step.
Can I include family members in the visa application?
You can include immediate family members, such as a spouse and dependent children, in your visa application. They can obtain residence permits tied to your Startup Visa, allowing them to live and work in Portugal. Additional documentation may be required to process their applications.
The Entrepreneur Visa: A Flexible Alternative for Business Owners
If the Startup Visa doesn’t align with your goals, the Entrepreneur Visa offers another route to establishing yourself in Portugal. This visa is ideal for individuals looking to start and manage their businesses without meeting the innovation-focused criteria of the Startup Visa. It allows you to contribute to the local economy while gaining residency in Portugal.
Key Features of the Entrepreneur Visa
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Flexibility to start a business in a wide range of sectors.
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There is no requirement for a certified incubator.
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Residency in Portugal with options to renew and eventually apply for permanent residency.
How We Can Help You Succeed
You must present a well-prepared business plan and market analysis to apply for the Entrepreneur Visa. Our Business Pathway service is designed to guide you through every step, including understanding the business environment, building a professional pitch deck, and crafting a comprehensive business plan tailored to your visa application needs.
