Portugal Startup Visa: The ultimate guide for expat founders

If you’re a startup founder relocating to Europe, Portugal is one of the most exciting places to land. The country’s startup scene has grown fast, with over 5,000 active startups, strong job creation, and rising attention from global investors.

Portugal offers a friendly, innovative environment where founders can start, grow, and reach international markets with confidence.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the Portugal Startup Visa program, its eligibility criteria, income requirements, and tax benefits. We’ll also share how you can apply for this visa with a higher success rate. 

What is the Portugal Startup Visa?

Portugal Startup Visa is a residency program for foreign founders who want to build or grow their startups in Portugal. 

This visa was launched by the Portuguese government and IAPMEI (Institute for Support to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Innovation) to attract global talent and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem. 

The program focuses on supporting startups with high growth potential, scalable tech-driven ideas, and the ability to contribute to job creation.

Unlike traditional residence permits, the Startup Visa does not require a job offer, a large investment, or prior residency in Portugal. Instead, applicants must present a viable, innovative business project.

Once approved, founders receive a residence permit that allows them to live, work, and build their startup in Portugal. Applicants can also renew the permit and eventually apply for long-term residency or citizenship after five years.

Many entrepreneurs also choose the Portugal D2 Visa route for residency. This visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want to start or run a business or operate as independent professionals in Portugal.

But the D2 Visa is more suitable for entrepreneurs who run traditional businesses, such as a shop, restaurant, service company, or freelance work.

Portugal Startup Visa vs D2 Visa: Quick comparison

Portugal Startup Visa eligibility criteria

The following are the Portugal Startup Visa requirements:

Nationality & age

You must be a non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national, and aged 18 or older. 

Financial requirements

You must show a minimum bank balance of €10,440, which reflects twelve times the Portuguese minimum wage as of 2025.

The Startup Visa allows up to five entrepreneurs (founding team members) to apply together under one project. But they must actively contribute to the startup as part of the founding or core team.

Innovative business requirement

Your startup must demonstrate a tech-based, knowledge-driven, and innovative product or service. These may include:

• Communication
• Information and Technology
• Healthcare
• Commerce 
• Customer products and services
• Electronics
• Biotech
• Energy

Acceptance by a certified incubator

You must secure a partnership with a certified Portuguese incubator. They will host your project, support your development, and issue the acceptance letter required for the application.

Clean criminal record

You must provide a certificate to prove you have a clean criminal record. 

Startup Visa requirements for family members

You can also apply for the Portugal Startup Visa with your family members.

And you can reunite your family after you receive a residence permit too. Eligible family members include spouse/partner, minor children, children over 18 (single/unmarried), and dependent parents. 

To qualify, you need to provide documentation such as:

• Marriage or partnership certificates
• Birth certificates
• Proof of dependency 

Savings requirement for family members

For family members, you must show additional savings based on Portugal’s 2025 minimum wage. You need €10,440 for yourself, plus 50% of that amount for your spouse , and 30% of that amount for each dependent child.

The required savings are:

• €10,440: main applicant
• €5,220: per dependent adult 
• €3,132: per dependent minor child

Role of certified incubators for Portugal Startup Visa

Before submitting your application, you must receive at least one declaration of interest from a certified Portuguese incubator.

Portugal has a large network of incubators approved by IAPMEI called StartUP Visa Certified Incubators. They provide workspace, mentoring, and business development support while acting as your official host during the program.

If IAPMEI approves your project, you can formally sign the incubation contract with one of the incubators that expressed interest.

How to choose the right incubator

Selecting the right incubator is one of the most important steps in your Startup Visa process. Your incubator becomes your local partner, mentor, and official supporter, so this decision can directly influence your success in Portugal.

Here are detailed factors to consider:

Match with your industry

Choose an incubator that understands your market, because the right sector fit can make a big difference in your success. 

Some of the popular certified incubators are Beta-i / Lisbon Challenge, Factory Lisbon, UPTEC (Universidade do Porto), ScaleUp Porto / Porto Innovation Hub, and ANJE – Porto.

The right incubator can connect you with relevant investors and potential customers, and provide mentors who specialise in your field. They also help strengthen your Portugal Startup Visa application process.

Level of support and services

Different incubators offer very different levels of support. Look for the following:

• Mentoring (weekly, monthly, or on-demand)
• Access to investor networks
• Business development support
• Legal and accounting guidance
• Workshops, acceleration programs, or events
• Co-working or private office space

Cost and commitment

Some incubators may charge monthly fees, program fees, or take equity, while others are free or subsidised. 

It’s important to review the contract carefully to understand what you’re getting, including workspace, mentoring, visibility, and any perks they offer, as well as to check for any hidden costs. 

Ultimately, choose the incubator that provides real value for your startup, not just the lowest price.

Track record with international founders

Many incubators accept international founders, but not all have the same level of experience. You should check how many Startup Visa projects they’ve hosted, whether they have success stories, and if they offer clear English-language support.

Pay attention to how responsive they are and how willing they are to discuss your project in detail. An experienced incubator can make the entire Startup Visa process much smoother and more reliable.

Tax implications for Portugal Startup Visa

Portugal offers a tax-friendly environment for entrepreneurs and startup founders. Here’s all you need to know about tax obligations for expats:

Becoming a Portuguese tax resident

According to general Portuguese residency rules, you become a Portuguese tax resident if you: 

• Live in Portugal for more than 183 days in a 12-month period, or 
• If you establish a habitual residence

Tax residency requires you to pay tax on your worldwide income, including salary, business income, dividends, and capital gains.

Corporate tax for your Portuguese startup

If you incorporate a company in Portugal through your Startup Visa project, the business becomes subject to standard Portuguese corporate taxation.

Tax Rates

Standard rate: 20%

• Applies to all taxable profit in mainland Portugal

SME reduced rate: 15%

• Applies only to the first €50,000 of taxable profit
• Available for small and medium-sized businesses

What This Means

If your startup qualifies as an SME, you pay 15% on your first €50,000 in profit. Any profit above that amount gets taxed at the standard 20% rate.

Example: Your startup makes €75,000 in taxable profit.

• First €50,000 taxed at 15% = €7,500
• Remaining €25,000 taxed at 20% = €5,000
• Total tax = €12,500

Your Portuguese startup must follow standard tax obligations. This includes VAT (IVA), social security contributions, quarterly and annual tax filings, and payroll taxes if you hire employees.

Personal taxation for startup founders

If you draw a salary from your Portuguese company, that income is taxed progressively:

• 14.5% to 48% depending on your income bracket
• An additional 2.5%–5% solidarity tax at higher levels

Foreign-sourced income is also taxable if you are a Portuguese tax resident, unless you qualify for a special regime such as NHR 2.0 (IFICI).

NHR 2.0 benefits for Startup Visa holders

Startup Visa founders are eligible for the NHR 2.0 regime, also known as the Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI). This is Portugal’s updated tax regime, introduced in 2024 for entrepreneurs and startup founders.

To qualify for the NHR 2.0 regime, you must be a Portuguese resident, and your startup must focus on a high-value profession such as scientific research, design, engineering, software development, or financial consulting.

Once approved, you can receive major tax advantages for 10 consecutive years, including:

• 20% flat tax on eligible Portuguese income (instead of up to 48%)
• 0% tax on most foreign passive income, such as dividends, rental income, capital gains, and interest (except income from blacklisted jurisdictions)
• Full access to Portugal’s tax treaty network to avoid double taxation

NHR 2.0 is one of Europe’s most attractive tax frameworks for founders, knowledge workers, and innovation-focused professionals. 

Touchdown offers tax consultation services to structure your move correctly under Portugal’s tax system. Our tax-planning attorney provides personalised advice to make sure your startup profile meets NHR 2.0 eligibility and maximises your tax benefits.

How to apply for a Portugal Startup Visa

The following is a complete breakdown of the Portugal Visa process for startup founders:

Step 1: Gather documents

Here’s a list of documents you need for the Portugal Startup visa application:

• Valid passport 
• Criminal record certificate from your home country and any country you lived in for 1+ years
• Proof of financial means, minimum €10,440 savings for 12 months (main applicant)
• Detailed business plan/project description
• Motivation letter explaining why you want to build your startup in Portugal
• Acceptance letter from a certified incubator
• Travel insurance valid for 6 months and covers the Schengen area
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal 
• NIF
• Portuguese Bank Account

Step 2: Apply for a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a bank account

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number that you need to do almost anything in Portugal. This includes opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, paying taxes, or registering a business.

You can obtain your NIF at a Finanças (tax office) in Portugal by presenting your passport and proof of address.

If you’re not in the country, Touchdown helps you submit the NIF application directly to the Portuguese Tax Authority. 

Once you have your NIF, you’ll need to open a Portuguese bank account to manage rent payments, receive income, or set up your business. Most banks require among others:

• NIF
• Passport 
• Proof of address

Step 3: Submit your application through the IAPMEI Startup Visa platform

Register on the IAPMEI Startup Visa online platform (the only official channel). Fill the application with personal and team details. You must also upload your project description and documents.

Next, send a declaration of interest to a certified incubator through the platform. Once at least one incubator gives positive feedback, you may submit your full application to IAPMEI for evaluation.

Step 4: Wait for IAPMEI review

After submission, IAPMEI reviews your application and issues a decision within 30 working days. 

Once approved, you can proceed to sign the incubation contract with your chosen incubator and upload it to the platform. IAPMEI will issue the Declaration of Acceptance, which you can use at the Portuguese consulate to apply for the Startup Visa.

Step 5: Apply for the Startup Visa at the Portuguese consulate

With the Declaration of Acceptance, you then apply for the Startup Visa (entry visa) at the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence.

Once approved, the Startup Visa grants a 4-month residence visa that allows entry into Portugal to apply for a residence permit.

Step 6: Travel to Portugal and apply for the residence permit

Once in Portugal, you attend your appointment with AIMA (the immigration authority) on the date indicated in your visa. You must submit:

• Passport
• Declaration of participation/acceptance in Startup Visa
• Photos
• Proof of funds
• Proof of accommodation (rental contract or property deed)
• Criminal record certificates and consent for checks in Portugal

If approved, you will receive a residence permit card that is valid for 2 years and can be renewed for 3 years. After this, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Bonus Step: Register for a Portuguese Social Security Number (NISS)

You should also register for a NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social) to legally work, operate your startup, or hire staff in Portugal.

To register, you need to appear in person at a Portuguese Social Security office.

Touchdown helps Startup Visa founders register for NISS remotely. We use an online power of attorney to submit your documents, represent you at the government office, and secure your NISS on your behalf.

Benefits of the Portugal Startup Visa for expat founders

Here are the benefits of applying for the Portugal Startup Visa:

Affordable cost of living

Portugal offers one of the most affordable living standards in Western Europe, making it easier for founders to manage both personal and operational expenses.

Housing, food, and transportation costs are lower than in major EU hubs, allowing startups to extend their runway.

Access to the Schengen Area

With a Portuguese residence permit, you can travel freely across the Schengen Zone, covering 27 European countries. 

You can attend investor meetings, conferences, and cross-border business operations without needing additional visas.

Access to healthcare & public services

Startup Visa holders gain access to Portugal’s healthcare system, social security benefits, and essential public services. 

This provides stability for founders and their families while building their company in Portugal.

Thriving startup ecosystem

Portugal has a fast-growing startup scene supported by incubators, accelerators, government grants, and a strong tech community. 

Cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Braga offer a collaborative environment where founders can access talent, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Residency for you and your family

The visa gives you legal residency in Portugal and allows you to bring qualifying family members.

Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship

The Startup Visa grants you legal residency in Portugal, and after maintaining this status for five consecutive years, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. 

This pathway allows founders to build long-term roots in Portugal while benefiting from EU mobility and rights.

How much is a Startup Visa in Portugal?

Here’s how much it can cost you to apply for the Portugal Startup Visa:

Visa application fee

The national visa fee costs about €110 per applicant as of 2025. But some consulates might charge between €90 and €120, depending on your country.

Residence permit fee

After arriving in Portugal, you’ll apply for your residence permit through AIMA. The standard issuance fee is charged locally once your appointment is completed.

Additional administrative fees

Some consulates or visa centers, such as VFS Global, may charge an extra €40–€44 service fee on top of the regular visa cost.

Supporting document expenses

You may need criminal records, apostilles, and certified translations. These typically cost €100–€300, depending on your country and the number of documents required.

Legal support 

If you work with an immigration lawyer or visa specialist, full application packages generally range from €3.000..

How Touchdown assists you in moving to Portugal

Touchdown is Portugal’s leading relocation platform, designed to remove the complexity from building and scaling your startup abroad. Our in-house lawyers help you at every step of the visa process. 

Every founder’s journey is different, so we tailor your plan to your startup’s stage, funding goals, and personal circumstances. Whether you're launching a new venture, relocating your team, or planning long-term expansion in Europe, Touchdown builds a personalised roadmap for you. 

Here’s how Touchdown helps you with the Portugal Startup Visa application:

Eligibility and planning

Our free Eligibility Checker shows you the best visa and residency options instantly, while our in-house experts guide you through every step, from immigration to company setup, with clarity and precision.

Legal review

Our legal team prepares and reviews every part of your application before submission. This includes verifying documents, checking translations and apostilles, and making every requirement meets Portugal’s immigration standards. 

We also help you schedule your consulate appointment and monitor your application until approval.

Dedicated immigration lawyer

We assign a dedicated immigration lawyer experienced in Startup Visa cases, founder relocations, and long-term residency. 

They support you throughout the entire process, from your initial application to your future residency renewals or citizenship path.

Portuguese NIF and bank account setup 

We help you obtain your Portuguese NIF and open a local bank account correctly from day one. Through our partnership with Novo Banco, founders receive premium accounts with home banking access, a dedicated manager, and priority onboarding. 

Our team handles all paperwork and sets up your account within five business days.

Company registration

The legal team reviews your documents, prepares the power of attorney, and handles all filings directly with the authorities for the company registration. 

A dedicated business lawyer guides you on the right company structure and makes sure your setup is fully compliant and ready for investment.

Tax planning for founders

Our in-house tax team evaluates your eligibility for Portugal’s IFICI (NHR 2.0) regime and helps you structure your income in a founder-friendly, compliant way. 

We make sure your move to Portugal is tax-efficient from the start.

On-the-ground support after you arrive

When you land in Portugal, we assist with scheduling your AIMA appointment, reviewing your rental contract, updating your NIF address, and setting up your tax profile. 

We provide continuous support so you can settle in.

We also help with connecting with incubators and communicating with IAPMEI.

You can book a 1:1 consultation with our team to get personalised guidance for your startup journey in Portugal.

Portugal startup Visa FAQs

Can a US citizen start a business in Portugal?

Yes, a US citizen can start a business in Portugal. You don’t need residency to open a company. But you must apply for a visa, like the D2 or Startup Visa, if you plan to live and manage the business from Portugal.

How long does it take to get the Portugal Startup Visa?

The timeline for the Portugal Startup Visa varies. But most applicants take 2–4 months to get incubator approval and 1–3 months for the consulate visa process.

What is the difference between D2 and Startup Visa in Portugal?

The D2 Visa is for entrepreneurs who want to start or buy a business in Portugal. The Startup Visa is only for innovative, high-growth, tech or knowledge-based startups that get accepted by a certified Portuguese incubator.

D2 doesn’t require the project to be tech-based or innovative, and you can open almost any type of company. Startup Visa is more selective but offers stronger support for scalable businesses.