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🇵🇹 Portugal startup residence permit · Startup Visa

Portugal startup residence permit

A residence permit for entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea. Access to the European market and a path to citizenship in 5 years.

Free consultationAdvice on your case
1-3 mo.processing time
from €9,840required funds
5 yearsto a citizenship application

Portugal is one of the most innovative countries in Europe: a favorable climate, a high quality of life and strong support for entrepreneurship. Startup Visa Portugal gives you access to one of the most dynamic startup ecosystems in Europe and a residence permit.

Legal basis for the startup residence permit

The program was created for foreign entrepreneurs who want to launch and grow innovative companies in Portugal. The main conditions:

  • An innovative idea. The business project must help create jobs in Portugal and have the potential to reach a turnover of €325,000.
  • Financial means. Proof of funds of at least €9,840.
  • Support from an IAMPEI incubator. You need confirmation from an accredited Portuguese incubator that is ready to support the project.
  • Company registration in Portugal.
  • Immigration requirements. All the required documents, including a police clearance certificate.
  • To receive the residence permit you must have housing in Portugal - rented or purchased.

The exact conditions depend on your project. On a free consultation we check your documents and tell you honestly whether the program fits.

Benefits of the Portugal startup residence permit

Access to the European market

Portugal gives you access to one of the largest economic areas in the world.

Support for startups

Government grants, tax incentives and access to accelerators.

A residence permit for the whole family

Spouses, financially dependent children and parents of the applicant, plus up to 5 business partners, can obtain a residence permit.

A path to citizenship

You can apply for citizenship 5 years after receiving the residence permit.

How to get the Portugal startup residence permit: step by step

Drafting the business plan

Preparing the project with its goals, market analysis and innovative aspects.

Getting incubator support

Finding an accredited incubator and a letter confirming it will support the project.

Collecting the documents

The business plan, proof of financial means and the other required documents.

Submitting the application

Through a Portuguese consulate or the program's online platform.

Receiving the residence permit

After approval you first get a startup visa valid for 4 months, during which you apply for the residence permit.

FAQ

How long is the Portugal startup residence permit issued for?
Up to 2 years, with an extension for another 3 years. Five years after receiving the residence permit you can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, spouses, dependent children and parents of the applicant, plus up to 5 business partners, can obtain a residence permit.
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
No, it is not required for the residence permit, and English is welcome. For citizenship, knowledge of Portuguese is mandatory.
Which industries qualify?
IT, fintech, biotech, creative industries and others.

Don’t want to figure this out alone?

We handle the whole process end to end: we check your documents, match a program to your situation and give you honest timelines and costs. Leave your details and a migration expert will get back to you. The first consultation is free.

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