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Portugal Start-up Visa 2026.

Launch your innovative startup in Portugal and secure residency. Perfect for founders with backing from incubators or accelerators.

Overview

What is the Portuguese Start-up Visa?

The Startup Visa is Portugal's innovation-focused residency program, designed to attract bright entrepreneurs with game-changing business ideas. It requires backing from established incubators or venture capital entities.

i

Residency for innovative founders

Obtain residency in Portugal by launching an innovative startup with incubator or accelerator backing.

ii

Innovation-focused

Designed for founders with disruptive business ideas in technology, biotechnology, sustainable development, and other innovation sectors.

iii

Incubator support

Must have support from recognized Portuguese incubators, accelerators, or venture capital companies.

Benefits

Why choose the Portuguese Start-up Visa.

i

Innovation ecosystem

Access to Portugal's growing tech ecosystem, venture capital networks, and startup community.

ii

Residency & work rights

Official residency status allowing you to live, work, and operate your startup in Portugal.

iii

Investor networks

Connection to venture capital firms, angel investors, and EU-wide funding opportunities.

iv

Schengen access

Travel freely throughout Europe for networking and business expansion.

v

Incubator support

Mentorship, resources, and support from recognized startup incubators and accelerators.

vi

Scaling opportunity

Build your European headquarters in Portugal and scale across EU markets.

Requirements

Start-up Visa eligibility requirements.

  • iIncubator backing — support letter from recognized Portuguese incubator, accelerator, or registered venture capital company.
  • iiInnovative business — innovative business plan in sectors like technology, biotech, cleantech, or other innovative areas.
  • iiiFounder qualifications — relevant education, experience, or demonstrated expertise in your startup's sector.
  • ivFinancial resources — proof of capital or commitment from incubator/investors to fund initial operations.
  • vLegal compliance — clean criminal record and health insurance requirements.

How we help

Start-up Visa application process.

  1. Incubator connection. Connect you with recognized Portuguese incubators and accelerators aligned with your business.
  2. Business plan development. Refine your startup concept and develop compelling pitch and business documentation.
  3. Incubator approval. Guide you through incubator selection and secure their backing letter and support.
  4. Visa application. Submit complete Startup Visa application with incubator backing and business documentation.
  5. Residency & launch. Receive visa approval, obtain residence permit, and officially launch your startup in Portugal.

Related services

Common questions

Start-up Visa FAQs.

Many Portuguese incubators qualify, including UPTEC, Startup Lx, and various regional innovation centers. We'll identify the best fit for your business.
The incubator/accelerator typically commits to funding. You may also need to demonstrate personal financial capacity.
Technology, biotechnology, sustainable development, cleantech, and other innovative sectors. Some restrictions apply.
Yes, multiple co-founders can apply. Each must meet eligibility requirements separately.
Typically 30-60 days after incubator backing is secured and application is submitted.
Yes. You can include your spouse and dependent children in your Startup Visa application. Family members receive the same residence permit duration and rights.

This information is general and does not replace individual legal advice. It does not constitute a guarantee of any outcome. The applicable framework depends on the law in force and the specific circumstances of each case.

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Ready to launch your startup in Portugal?

Our team connects innovative founders with Portuguese incubators and guides you through the Startup Visa process. Let's bring your vision to life in Portugal.

Schedule consultation →
or call +351 222 084 267