- February 4, 2025
- 7:28 am
StartUp Visa in Portugal
The Portuguese Startup Visa, under Article 89.4, offers a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to relocate and bring their startup idea to life. This process not only facilitates moving with your team but also accelerates the business launch, even if you only have an idea rather than an established company.
Why Consider the Startup Visa?
Article 89.4 provides a fast-track residency permit, especially beneficial for those with a business idea but no fully operational startup.
Key Requirements and Steps
1. Business Plan & Registration
- Fill out the application on the StartUp Portugal website, detailing your idea, business model, and development plans.
- Within the first year of obtaining residency, you must register your company.
2. Growth Potential
- Demonstrate scalability and readiness to expand in European and global markets.
- Show your commitment to creating jobs for Portuguese citizens.
3. Residency Permit Documents
- Obtain approval from business incubators partnered with IAPMEI.
- Choose a suitable incubator after securing multiple approvals.
- Apply to IAPMEI, get approval, and then sign a contract with the incubator.
Additional Requirements:
✔ Must be 18+
✔ Bachelor’s degree
What is IAPMEI?
IAPMEI (Instituto de Apoio às Pequenas e Médias Empresas e à Inovação) is Portugal’s Institute for SME and Innovation Support. It provides guidance, funding programs, and project evaluations. In the context of the Startup Visa (Article 89.4), IAPMEI collaborates with incubators and plays a crucial role in approving and assisting entrepreneurs launching businesses in Portugal.
4. Submitting Documents to AIMA
- Book an appointment with AIMA for the Startup Visa application.
- Prepare the required documents:
✔ Passport
✔ Bank statement proving at least €6,120 per person (annual social support index)
✔ Criminal record certificate (from all countries of citizenship and residence over 1 year, with an apostille in Portuguese or English)
✔ Long-term rental contract in Portugal (minimum 1 year)
✔ Motivation letter
✔ Health insurance
✔ Agreement with IAPMEI and startup details.
The Portuguese Startup Visa offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life, establish businesses in an innovation-driven environment, and contribute to global tech trends. Following each step carefully and meeting all requirements is key to securing your visa and successfully integrating into Portugal’s business ecosystem.
