Overview

The Portugal Startup Visa is a residence visa designed to attract entrepreneurs from non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries who want to establish or expand their innovative businesses in Portugal. It provides a pathway to establish startups that contribute to Portugal’s economic and technological ecosystem.

Key Features

• Visa Type: Long-term residence visa for entrepreneurs.
• Eligibility: Innovative business idea with economic and technological impact.
• Processing Time: 2-4 months.
• Validity: Visa valid for up to 4 months; residence permit renewable every 2 years.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Innovative Business Idea:
   • Must be technology-based or innovative and capable of creating jobs in Portugal.
   • Approved by one of the certified Portuguese incubators.
2. Financial Proof:
   • Minimum funds of €5,146.80 per person annually (120% of Portugal’s minimum wage).
3. Business Plan:
   • A detailed plan showing the potential for international scalability.
4. Health Insurance:
   • Proof of private health insurance covering your stay.
5. No Criminal Record:
   • A clean police record certificate.

Application Process

1. Step 1: Submit Online Application
   • Apply via the Startup Visa Online Platform managed by IAPMEI (Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation).
   • Provide business plan, CV, and financial proof.
2. Step 2: Incubator Certification
   • Choose an incubator certified by the Portuguese government to support your business.
3. Step 3: Wait for Evaluation
   • IAPMEI evaluates the business idea, scalability potential, and economic impact.
4. Step 4: Visa Application
   • Upon approval, apply for the Startup Visa at the nearest Portuguese consulate or embassy.
5. Step 5: Residence Permit Application
   • Upon arrival in Portugal, apply for a residence permit through SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).

Advantages of the Portugal Startup Visa

1. Access to the EU Market:
   • Operate your business in a competitive European market.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship:
   • Eligible for PR after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years.
3. Incubator Support:
   • Access to mentorship, resources, and workspace through certified incubators.
4. Family Reunification:
   • Bring your spouse and dependents under family reunification policies.
5. Tax Benefits:
   • Access to Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime.
6. Networking Opportunities:
   • Connect with Portugal’s growing startup ecosystem and global investors.

Documents Required

• Valid passport.
• Business plan.
• Proof of financial resources.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Proof of health insurance.
• Letter of approval from a certified incubator.
• Completed visa application form.

Processing Time

• Evaluation by IAPMEI: 30-60 days.
• Visa Application: 30-60 days.