StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs)
Non-EU entrepreneurs launching an innovative, scalable startup hosted by a certified Portuguese incubator.
The StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) is a Portuguese business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (incubator selection free)) and processing time (~30 days for incubator decision, then visa processing), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) is for
Non-EU entrepreneurs launching an innovative, scalable startup hosted by a certified Portuguese incubator.
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and citizenship.
StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) - eligibility criteria
- Project accepted by a certified Portuguese incubator
- Technology-based, scalable business model
- Proof of subsistence means (~€5,000+)
- Aim to reach €325,000 turnover or assets within 5 years
- Clean criminal record
StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) (Portugal) is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (incubator selection free), with an indicative processing time of ~30 days for incubator decision, then visa processing. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | IAPMEI online application, then consulate and AIMA |
| Length of stay | Residence permit 2 years, renewable for 3 |
| Work rights | Building and running the incubated startup |
| Study rights | Study permitted alongside |
| Government fee | ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (incubator selection free) |
| Processing time | ~30 days for incubator decision, then visa processing |
| Route to PR | After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and citizenship.
Many applicants also compare D2 · D2 Residence Visa for Entrepreneurs and Independent Workers, Tech Visa · Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers), Golden Visa · Residence Permit for Investment (Golden Visa / ARI). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Portuguese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) pitfalls we fix
StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) - frequently asked questions
How much does the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) cost?
The StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) government fee is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (incubator selection free). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~30 days for incubator decision, then visa processing. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs) lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and citizenship.
Can I work on the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs)?
Work rights: Building and running the incubated startup.
Who can apply for the StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs)?
Non-EU entrepreneurs launching an innovative, scalable startup hosted by a certified Portuguese incubator.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Portugal government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- AIMA (Portugal) - official Portugal immigration authority