top of page
123.png

Business Immigration

Here is a detailed breakdown of Portugal active business immigration options, including eligibility criteria, requirements, step-by-step application procedures, processing times, and associated costs for each program.

Types of Business Immigration Pathways in Portugal

  • Portugal Golden Visa Program: For investors making qualifying investments in Portugal (e.g., real estate, job creation).
     

  • D2 Entrepreneur Visa: For non-EU nationals starting a business or entrepreneurial activity.
     

  • StartUp Visa: Targeted at innovative entrepreneurs setting up or relocating startups to Portugal.
     

  • HQA (Highly Qualified Activity) Visa: For entrepreneurs and investors engaged in innovative projects in collaboration with Portuguese universities or research institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Portugal Golden Visa Program
 

Minimum investment requirements such as:

  • Real Estate: Minimum €500,000 investment (can be lower in low-density areas).

  • Capital Transfer: Minimum transfer of €1.5 million.

  • Job Creation: Creation of at least 10 jobs.

  • Investment Funds: Minimum €500,000 in qualified funds.
     

  • Must maintain investment for a minimum period (typically 5 years).
     

2. D2 Entrepreneur Visa

 

  • Suitable for small business owners or self-employed individuals.

  • Submission of a detailed business plan demonstrating viability and economic impact.

  • Proof of financial resources to sustain business and personal living in Portugal.
     

3. StartUp Visa
 

  • Must prove innovative business idea with high growth potential.

  • Must be incubated by a certified incubator in Portugal.

  • Language skills in English or Portuguese.

  • Personal and business bank statements to demonstrate financial resources.
     

4. HQA Visa
 

  • Requires collaboration with Portuguese universities/research institutions.

  • Focus on highly innovative or research-driven business activities.

  • Initial proof of capital and expertise in the relevant field

Requirements

  • Business Plan: Clear and viable business plan outlining project scope, potential job creation, and economic impact.
     

  • Proof of Investment: Depending on the visa category, you must show proof of the qualifying investment amount (e.g., real estate purchase agreements, bank transfer receipts).
     

  • Language Skills: English or Portuguese proficiency may be required for certain visas (e.g., StartUp Visa).
     

  • Financial Resources: Sufficient personal and/or business funds (varies by visa type).
     

  • Proof of Company Incorporation: Evidence of company setup in Portugal for entrepreneur pathways.

Timeline and Process Overview

1. Preparation Phase (1-3 Months):
 

  • Develop and submit the business plan.

  • Obtain proof of qualifying investments (if applicable).

  • Collect necessary documents such as criminal record check, financial statements, etc.
     

2. Application Submission (Up to 3-6 Months):

 

  • Submit online application, fees, and supporting documents.

  • Attend interviews (if applicable) with Portuguese authorities.
     

3. Processing Period (6-8 Months)
 

  • Decision-making phase with potential requests for more documentation or interviews.

 

4. Entry Clearance & Establishing Business (1-6 Months):
​

  • Enter the UK to establish the business.

  • Start business operations and adhere to UK regulations.

Costs Breakdown

  • Visa Fees: Application fees for Golden Visas range around €500 to €5,325 depending on stages and renewals.

  • Minimum Investment Amounts:

  • Real Estate Investment: Minimum €280,000 - €500,000+ (depending on location).

  • Capital Transfer: Minimum €1.5 million.

  • Job Creation Investment: Based on salary costs and minimum 10-job requirement.
     

  • Legal and Consultancy Fees: Typically vary but may include fees for translation, consultancy, and notary services.

Company Sustainability for Permanent Residency

  • Golden Visa Program: Minimum five-year holding period for investments; after which permanent residency or citizenship may be sought.

  • Entrepreneur Visas: Continued operation and sustainability of the business (growth metrics and tax compliance may apply).

Investment & Bank Statement Requirements

  • Golden Visa Program: Evidence of investment in qualifying assets, like property ownership, proof of transfer of capital, or creation of jobs.

  • D2 Entrepreneur Visa: Financial statements demonstrating capability to sustain business and yourself in Portugal.

Start-Up Business Support (Angel Investors/Incubators)

  • StartUp Visa: Must collaborate with or be incubated by a certified business incubator in Portugal.

  • Mentorship Programs: Available via incubators and may include workshops, networking opportunities, and advisory support

Licenses and Self-Dependent Visa Requirements

  • Business Licenses: Sector-specific licenses must be obtained based on business activities.

  • Self-Sponsorship: Not a direct pathway; instead, individuals must qualify under relevant entrepreneurial visas or establish a compliant business entity.

bottom of page