What is the Portugal Startup Visa?
The StartUP Visa is a continuous hosting programme for non-EU entrepreneurs who want to develop an innovative or scalable project in Portugal. It enables incubator hosting, a Portuguese entry visa and a residence permit under the StartUP Visa rules.
The program aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and to affirm Portugal as a country open to entrepreneurship and to all those who will use knowledge and innovation to invest in the Portuguese economy and build up the national skilled workforce.
Benefits of the Portugal Startup Visa?
Support from Incubators
Every StartUP Visa applicant partners with a certified Portuguese incubator. Your incubator assists with:
Tax Benefits (NHR Regime)
StartUP Visa holders must spend at least 183 days/year in Portugal. This makes you a Portuguese tax resident but you may qualify for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime.
Pathway to Citizenship
With a StartUP Visa you can legally enter, live, and work in Portugal. After 5 years of residence, you may become eligible for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, unlocking full EU rights.
Affordable Residency Option
Compared with other visa routes, the StartUP Visa offers a cost-effective path to residency. After incubator approval, you can apply for your residence permit — valid for 2 years, and extendable to family members.
Who can
Apply?
Non-EU nationals without permanent residence in the Schengen Area.
Entrepreneurs with an innovative, scalable project (an idea or an already running project abroad intending to set up in Portugal).
Must obtain interest/acceptance from at least one certified Portuguese incubator to progress.
Step by Step Process
Follow our comprehensive guide to obtain your Portugal Startup Visa
Build a strong business plan
Create a clear, professional business plan that highlights technology, innovation and scalability — and explains how your project will positively impact the Portuguese economy.
Assemble required documents
Prepare your CV, project presentation/pitch deck, motivation letter and any supporting materials.
Secure an accredited incubator
Apply to one or more certified Portuguese incubators. An incubator’s acceptance is essential; it fast-tracks your application and gives your project the credibility IAPMEI looks for.
Wait for IAPMEI decision
Track your application on the IAPMEI dashboard. IAPMEI typically issues a decision within 30 working days. If successful you’ll receive a Declaration of Participation (valid for 180 days).
Apply for your entry visa at the consulate
With the Declaration of Participation, book an appointment at the Portuguese embassy or consulate, submit your passport and documents, and apply for the D1-type entry visa.
Schedule your SEF appointment in Portugal
After you arrive, schedule and attend your SEF (AIMA) appointment to convert the entry visa into a residence permit, you’ll provide biometrics and originals at the SEF office.
Receive your residence card
Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary residence permit (typically valid 2 years), renewable in subsequent periods so you can continue building your company and living in Portugal.
