Whether you’re a solo founder or a small international team, this program helps you live, build, and grow your company in Portugal — with access to the EU market and one of Europe’s most exciting innovation ecosystems.  

Let’s break it down.  

What is the Portugal Startup Visa?  

The  Startup Visa is a residence program for  non-EU/EEA/Swiss entrepreneurs who want to establish or relocate their startup in Portugal.  

It’s not a tourist or investor visa — it’s designed  specifically for innovation-driven businesses with the potential to scale globally.  

Once accepted, you can live in Portugal and build your company from here, with access to local incubators, funding opportunities, and the broader European ecosystem.  

Who Can Apply?  

To qualify for the Startup Visa, you must:  

1. Be a  non-EU citizen.   
   
    
2. Have a  business idea that:   
   
    
   • Is innovative.   
   • Has high growth potential.   
   • Can create jobs or generate export revenue.   
     
      
3. Have  no criminal record and be financially self-sufficient.   
   
    
4. Not have residence in the Schengen Area at the time of application.   
   
    

You can apply as a solo founder or as a team (max 5 founders).  

What Kind of Startups Are Eligible?  

The visa targets  tech, digital, and R&D-intensive startups— including sectors like:  

• Artificial Intelligence   
• HealthTech   
• FinTech   
• GreenTech / Clean Energy   
• Biotech   
• Cybersecurity   
• Smart Tourism   
• FashionTech
• Circular Economy   
   

Your idea must be original, scalable, and capable of attracting funding or generating international revenue.  

Role of Certified Incubators  

To apply, you’ll need a  hosting agreement from a certified incubator in Portugal. These incubators will support your startup by providing workspace, mentoring, and integration into the local ecosystem.  

Over 150 incubators are listed on the IAPMEI portal, from Lisbon and Porto to Braga, Coimbra, and beyond.  

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)  

1. Prepare your documents:   
   
    
   • Personal details   
   • Business plan (in English or Portuguese)   
   • Motivation letter   
   • CVs of team members   
   • Bank statements showing means of subsistence   
     
      
2. Apply online via the IAPMEI portal :   
   
    
   • startupvisa.iapmei.pt   
     
      
3. Get a hosting agreement :   
   
    
   • Your application is sent to the incubators you choose.   
   • If an incubator likes your project, they issue a hosting agreement.   
     
      
4. Evaluation by IAPMEI :   
   
    
   • They assess innovation, scalability, and economic impact.   
   • You’ll receive a final acceptance letter.   
     
      
5. Apply for a residence visa at a Portuguese consulate in your country.   
   
    
6. Move to Portugal and begin building your dream!   
   
    

How Long Does It Take?  

• Incubator feedback: Usually 30–60 days.   
• IAPMEI approval: 15–30 days after hosting confirmation.   
• Visa issuance: Varies by country (usually 2–3 months).   
  
   

Total: Expect around 3–6 months from start to finish.  

What Are the Benefits?  

• Legal residence in Portugal (with a path to permanent residency and citizenship).   
   
• Access to the EU market and funding.   
   
• Inclusion in Portugal’s innovation ecosystem .   
   
• Potential access to  non-dilutive grants and incentives (e.g., Portugal 2030, Horizon Europe).   
   
• A great lifestyle and affordable cost of living.   
  
   

Things to Keep in Mind  

• You must  actively work on your startup in Portugal.   
• Annual reporting and progress evaluation are required.   
• It’s a  visa, not direct funding — but it opens the door to many opportunities.   
• If your project stagnates or fails to meet goals, the visa can be revoked.   
  
   

Final Thoughts  

The Portugal Startup Visa is more than just paperwork — it’s a chance to build your future in a country that values creativity, innovation, and international talent.  

From the streets of Lisbon to the valleys of Braga, Portugal is full of potential — and your startup might be the next success story to bloom here.