Entrepreneur & Start-Up Visas

What is a Entrepreneur Visa?

Entrepreneur Visas, often referred to as a Startup Visas are designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish or expand a business in a specific country.

Unlike Golden Visa programs which allow investors to qualify with a passive investment in the country, Start-Up Visas are active residency by investment programs which require physical presence and the genuine intention to grow ties to the country by establishing and running a business there.

Such programs are becoming very popular with governments and we are seeing an increase of countries launching such programs.

These visas typically come with specific requirements, such as:

Business Plan: Applicants usually need to submit a well-defined business plan that outlines the startup idea, its market potential, and the financial and operational details.

Innovation: The startup idea often needs to be innovative, meaning it should contribute to job creation, economic growth, or be in a technology or high-growth sector.

Investment: Some programs require applicants to secure funding or investment from accredited sources such as venture capital firms, angel investors, or government agencies.

Local Support: Entrepreneurs may need to have the backing of a local incubator, accelerator, or government-endorsed organization that will help guide the startup’s development.

Job Creation: Many countries expect the startup to eventually create jobs for local citizens as part of the visa’s requirements

Start-Up Visa ProgramsStart-Up Visa Countries 2024

Which Countries Offer Start-Up Visas?

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European Start-Up Visas and Entrepreneur Visa Programs

European Startup Visas offer a unique opportunity for international entrepreneurs to launch and grow innovative businesses within the European Union. With a focus on innovation, job creation, and economic growth, European Startup Visas are paving the way for new ventures to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

Start-Up Visa

Portugal
D2 Visa

The D2 Visa was created for Freelancers and independent professionals looking to start their business activity in Portugal. Independent professionals such as lawyers, dentists, doctors or any high level professional looking at conducting business in Portugal as an independent practitioner can also apply for the Portugal D2 Visa. The “Startup Visa” Program aims to develop projects that can generate “startups”, built on new ideas and business models, contributing to attract highly qualified professionals.

Learn More

No minimum investment required

The Portugal D2 Visa does not require an investment, only for the applicant to have a minimum amount at the Bank Account at the day of the appointment.

Business Establishment

Enables individuals to establish a business or work independently in Portugal and have access to the European market.

Pathway to Citizenship and Permanent Residency

Acquiring the Portuguese D2 Visa means a pathway to either permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years of legal residence.

Family Reunification

Residency in Portugal is available for all dependent family members through the family reunification law (which includes spouse or legal partner, children under 18, dependent children , parents of either Spouse if over 65, or if over 55 and dependent, and siblings under 18 provided either spouse is legally responsible).Business Visa

Portugal
HQA Visa

The HQA Visa was created for entrepreneurs and professionals who partner with Portuguese universities or research institutions.Learn More

Minimum Investment €175,000

The Portugal HQA Visa is a cost-effective alternative to the Portugal Golden Visa program. Qualified professionals who set up a local business and invest in research activities in Portugal through its universities can be eligible for residency.

High Educational Background

Perfect for those with high educational or professional qualifications.

Pathway to Citizenship and Permanent Residency

Acquiring the Portuguese HQA Visa means a pathway to either permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years of legal residence.

Family Reunification

Residency in Portugal is available for all dependent family members through the family reunification law (which includes spouse or legal partner, children under 18, dependent children , parents of either Spouse if over 65, or if over 55 and dependent, and siblings under 18 provided either spouse is legally responsible).Business Visa

Spain
Entrepreneur Visa

The Spain's Entrepreneur Visa allows non-EU citizens to reside and work in Spain under the condition of launching an innovative business. Learn More

No minimum investment required

By investing at the Italian Representativa Office Visa you don't need to investment an specific ammount of money to be eligible for the visa.

Path to Permanent Residency

After five years, visa holders may apply for permanent residency.

Access to EU Markets

Entrepreneurs gain a strategic base in Spain, facilitating business expansion with other EU countries

Family Inclusion

Applicants can bring family members, who can also work in Spain Business Residency Pathways

Austria
Start Up Visa

The Austria Entrepreneur Visa, known as the Red-White-Red Card for Start-up Founders, allows third-country nationals to establish innovative businesses in Austria.Learn More

Low minimum investment (€30,000)

Scoring-Based Eligibility

Points are awarded for language skills, experience, and qualifications, making it possible to leverage diverse strengths

Path to Permanent Residency

Qualifying applicants can potentially transition to a permanent residency option.

Residence and Work Authorization

This Visa grants a two-year stay with eligibility to apply for an extended visa offering wider employment opportunities.
Business Residency Pathways

France
Talent Passport

The France Talent Passport is a visa for international professionals with high economic or cultural potential, seeking long-term residency in France.Learn More

Long-Term Residency

This visa allows qualified individuals to live and work in France for up to four years, with the possibility to renew it.

Career Benefits

Applicants can pursue various career paths across different sectors.

Smooth Application

This visa simplifies processes for international talent, supporting economic and cultural growth in France.

Family Reunification

Spouses and children can also benefit from residency in France.
Business Residency Pathways

France
Tech Visa

The French Tech Visa is a great visa pathway for non-EU tech talent, created to strengthen France’s tech ecosystem.Learn More

Supports Start-Ups and Investors

This Visa is tailored for tech employees, founders, and investors, enhancing access to France’s tech ecosystem.

Minimum Investment from €30,000

Tech Visa Holders can work in France without needing separate work permits.

Long-Term Residency

Applicants are offered a four-year, renewable residency permit.

Family Reunification

Family members can accompany the visa holder and also receive residency.
Business Visa

Italy
Representative Office Visa

The Italy Representative Office Visa offers a unique path to Italian residency, specifically designed for foreign companies looking to establish a presence in Italy. Unlike other residency programs, this visa does not require an investment or a physical presence in the country. Instead, it allows for the creation of a representative office, which is a legal entity that can facilitate market research, promotional activities, or any non-operational business functions.Learn More

No minimum investment required

By investing at the Italian Representativa Office Visa you don't need to investment an specific ammount of money to be eligible for the visa.

Tax Benefits

Once you establish a Representative office visa, your company will be eligible to tax benefits.

No Permanent Office Needed

It is not mandatory to have a permanent office in Italy, in order to renew your residence permit, you can maintain your previous representative office.

Family Reunification

If you want to bring your family with you to Italy, they can apply for the family reunification visa.Start-Up Visa

Estonia
Start-Up Visa

The Estonian Startup Visa is a program aimed at non-EU founders and employees who wish to establish or work for a startup in Estonia. This visa was designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and it is available to all the individuals with scalable, innovative business ideas that have the potential for global growth. Learn More

No minimum investment required

The Estonian Startup Visa has no investment requirements. The only condition is that the business should be innovative and scalable, with the aim to improve Estonia’s economy.

Path to Residency and Citizenship

The Estonia Startup Visa allows investors to apply for permanent residency after five years of living in Estonia, and after eight years of living in Estonia, they can qualify for Estonian citizenship.

Business Friendly Environment

The Estonian Startup Visa offers streamlined processes, low bureaucracy, and access to a thriving tech ecosystem, allowing entrepreneurs to quickly establish and scale their companies in a digitally advanced, innovation-driven environment.

Family Reunification

The Estonia Startup Visa is a great opportunity for the investor's family members to apply for the residency card too. Start-Up Visa

Slovenia
Start-Up Visa

This Visa is made to attract non-EU entrepreneurs who wish to launch innovative business in Slovenia. Applicants must first meet the requirements set by the Slovenian Government, which evaluates the viability and growth potential of their business. Once approved, entrepreneurs gain access to Slovenia’s dynamic business environment, known for its strategic location in Central Europe and its supportive ecosystem for business. Learn More

Fast and Simple Application Process

This Visa program offers a streamlined application process, allowing entrepreneurs to quickly gain residency and start focusing on business development with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

Strategic Location

Slovenia's central position in Europe makes it an ideal hub for expanding business operations throughout the continent, offering proximity to key markets and logistical advantages.

Business Friendly Environment

Slovenia provides a supportive and dynamic environment for startups, including a well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Access to the EU Market

The Slovenian Startup Visa offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to establish a business in Slovenia, granting them access to the broader European Union market due to Slovenia’s EU membership.

Slovakia
Entrepreneur Visa

The Slovakia Entrepreneur Visa, available through the Slovakia Business Investor Program, provides residency for non-EU nationals establishing and investing in their own or majority-owned businesses in SlovakiaLearn More

Path to EU Residency

This Visa provides a pathway to long-term residency.

Schengen Access

This Visa allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

Business Growth

This Visa offers a stable environment for entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses within the EU market.

Family Relocation

This Visa permits family members to join the primary applicant in Slovakia.

Germany
Entrepreneur Visa

Germany’s Entrepreneur Visa enables foreign entrepreneurs to establish businesses in GermanyLearn More

Access to the EU Market

With this visa, entrepreneurs gain the ability to operate within Germany and access the wider EU market for their business ventures.

Pathway to Residency

Applicants can establish residency in Germany, with the possibility to apply for permanent residency after a few years or legal residence.

Supportive Ecosystem

Germany offers a strong startup ecosystem, with access to networks, funding, and innovation hubs.

Economic Stability

Germany’s stable economy provides a favorable environment for business growth and development.Business Visa

United Kingdom
Innovator Founder Visa

The UK Innovator Founder Visa was created for those looking to establish or run an innovative business in the UK. Applicants must have a business idea that is new, viable, and scalable, and it must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body.

Learn More

No Minimum Investment

Unlike the previous Innovator Visa, this route does not require a minimum investment fund, making it more accessible to early-stage entrepreneurs.

Path to Permanent Residency

The visa allows applicants to stay in the UK for up to three years, with the option to extend or apply for permanent residency.

Business Friendly Environment

This Visa offers a pathway for founders to build their businesses in one of the world’s most dynamic and entrepreneurial environments.

Flexible Business Ownership

The visa allows founders to establish or run multiple businesses, providing flexibility to diversify or expand ventures.Business Visa

United Kingdom
Global Talent Visa

The UK Global Talent Visa was created for applicants recognized as leaders or potential leaders in fields like academia, research, arts, culture, and digital technology. Learn More

No Job Offer Requirement

Applicants can apply without needing a job offer, based on their expertise and achievements.

Path to Permanent Residency

Applicants can obtain permanent residency after three to five years or legal residency.

Flexibility in Employment

This Visa holders can work for multiple employers, start their own business, or freelance within their field.

Family Reunification

With this visa, dependents, including spouses and children, can join and live in the UK.Business Visa

United Kingdom
Business Expansion Visa

The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows senior managers or specialized employees to establish a new branch of their business in the UK
Learn More

Opportunity for Business Growth

This Visa enables expanding international businesses to enter the UK market.

Short-Term Residence

This Visa provides up to two years to manage the business setup phase.

Work Flexibility

Visa holders can travel, study, and conduct voluntary work in the UK

Family Reunification

Main applicant' partners and children can join visa holders in the UK.Business Visa

United Kingdom
Skilled Worker Visa

To be eligible for the UK Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor, and the role must meet skill and salary requirements. Applicants also need to demonstrate a good level of English proficiency. Learn More

Pathway to Permanent Residency

This Visa allows workers to apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous residence in the UK.

Work Opportunities

This visa enables individuals to work for an approved UK employer in a variety of skilled professions, covering a broad range of industries and sectors.

Long-term Stay

This visa is initially granted for up to five years and can be extended, providing long-term stability for skilled professionals looking to live and work in the UK.

Family Inclusion

Visa holders can bring family members, including a spouse or children, to live with them in the UK.

Latin America Start-Up Visas and Business Visa Programs

Latin America offers a variety of startup and business visa programs designed to attract entrepreneurs and foreign investors to the region. These visas provide pathways for individuals looking to establish or expand their businesses in diverse markets such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Panama.

Business Visa

Brazil
Investor Visa

Brazil's Investor Visa, known as VIPER (Visa for Investment in Brazil), is designed to attract foreign investors seeking permanent residency in Brazil. To qualify, applicants must invest a minimum of BRL 500,000 (approximately USD 100,000) in a new or existing business in Brazil, or BRL 1 million in a startup that generates jobs or fosters innovation. Learn More

Permanent Residency from $100,000 USD

The Brazil Investor Visa program allows entrepreneurs who set up a business and invest 500,000R into a company to qualify for Permanent Residency in Brazil.

Investment Flexibility

Investors can choose to invest in a new or existing business, or in a startup, with varying minimum investment amounts, providing flexibility based on their interests and resources.

Access to Growing Market

Brazil's large and diverse economy offers significant market opportunities for investors, making it an attractive destination for those looking to expand their business ventures in Latin America.

Family Inclusion

The VIPER visa allows investors to bring immediate family members, including spouses and children, to live with them in Brazil, facilitating a smooth relocation process for families.

Business Visa

Paraguay
SUACE Visa

The SUACE Investor program in Paraguay is a residency-by-investment pathway designed for entrepreneurs. It allows foreign investors to obtain permanent residency by making a modest investment in a Paraguayan business or economy, typically starting with a minimum investment of $70,000 USD.Learn More

Permanent Residency from $70,000 USD

The SUACE program is designed to attract foreign investors and entrepreneurs, offering them a quick and cost-effective way to establish residency in the country.

Low Investment Required

A Minimum investment of $70,000 USD

Fast Processing

Under the Paraguay SUACE program, residency is typically granted within a few months.

Favorable Tax Regime

Paraguay offers a low-tax environment, which is attractive for investors.Business Visa

El Salvador
Residency by Investment Program

The El Salvador Residency by Investment program offers foreign investors a pathway to residency by making a significant contribution to the country's economy through an investment into a new or existing business.Learn More

Pathway to Citizenship

The program offers the potential for eventual citizenship after maintaining residency for a specified period.

Flexible Investment Options

Investors can choose between real estate, business, or other qualifying investments.

Favorable Tax Regime

El Salvador has a relatively favorable tax regime, making it attractive for investors.

Family Inclusion

The program allows investors to include family members in their residency application.Business Visa

Panama
Friendly Nations Visa

The Panama Friendly Nations Visa offers was created for citizens from designated "friendly nations" with professional or economic ties to Panama. Applicants must either secure employment, establish a business, or make a real estate investment in Panama.Learn More

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Panama Friendly Nations Visa offers a fast-track permanent residency.

Flexible Investment Options

Investors can choose between real estate, business, or other qualifying investments.

Fast Processing

Applicants can quickly obtain temporary residency, which can later convert to permanent residency.

Family Inclusion

This Visa allows applicants to include dependents, providing residency for family members as well.Start-Up Visa

Mexico
Investor Visa

The Mexico Investor Visa allows foreign nationals to obtain residency by investing in the country. Applicants must invest a minimum of approximately USD 100,000 in a Mexican business or create a business that generates jobs for locals. Learn More

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Mexico Investor Visa provides a route to temporary residency, which can lead to permanent residency after a certain period.

Investment Opportunities

Applicants can invest in a variety of sectors, including businesses that create local jobs or real estate.

Cultural and Economic Integration

Investors gain access to Mexico's rich culture, dynamic economy, and diverse market opportunities.

Family Inclusion

This visa allows applicants to include their immediate family members in the residency application.Entrepreneur Visa

Nicaragua
Investor Visa

The Nicaragua Entrepreneur Visa, also known as Golden Visa program is created for investors who aim to acquire the Nicaragua Citizenship.Learn More

Pathway to Citizenship

Applicants could apply for the Citizenship after 2 years of legal residency.

Low Minimum Investment

The minimum Investment is lower than other Golden Visas in the market, being only US$ 30,000.

No physical presence required

Even though there's no specific physical presence requirement it is recommended that applicants spend at least 1 month in the country each year to demonstrate ties to the country.

Fast application process

The application processing time can take between 3-6 months.

North America Start-Up Visas & Entrepreneur Visas

The U.S. offers several visa options for startups and business visa.Each visa has distinct eligibility criteria and benefits for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their ventures in the U.S.

Business Visa

United States
L1 Visa

The L1 visa is an intra-company transfer visa that allows U.S. companies to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from their foreign offices to the U.S. It also enables companies to establish a U.S. officeLearn More

Pathway to the Green Card

L1 visa holders can eventually apply for permanent residency without needing to first obtain a labor certification.

Multiple Entries

The visa allows multiple entries, enabling the holder to travel internationally while retaining U.S. work authorization.

Work Authorization

Allows foreign employees to work in the U.S. for their company.

Family Inclusion

L1 visa holders can bring their spouse and children, and spouses can work in the U.S.

Canada
SUV Program

Canada's Start-Up Visa Program was created for investors who back innovative, high-growth startups that meet program criteria. Learn More

No Minimum Investment

The Canada's Start-Up Visa Program doesn’t require a set personal investment amount, as long as the business secures support from a designated organization.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Applicants can apply for permanent residency after years of legal residency.

Access to Support Networks

This program connects entrepreneurs with Canadian investors, incubators, and support organizations that can help grow their business.

Flexible Residency Requirements

Applicants can work on their business without needing immediate physical residence in Canada.Business Visa

United States
E2 Visa

The E-2 visa is a U.S. non-immigrant visa for citizens of countries with which the U.S. has a treaty of commerce. It allows individuals to enter and work in the U.S. based on a substantial investment in a U.S. business.Learn More

Renewable Visa

The E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains operational.

Business Control

The visa holder can oversee and direct the enterprise in which they’ve invested.

No Minimum Investment

While the investment must be "substantial," there is no specific dollar minimum.

Family Inclusion

Spouses and children under 21 can join the visa holder, with spouses eligible for work authorization.Business Visa

United States
EB2 NIW Visa

The EB2-NIW (Employment-Based Second Preference, National Interest Waiver) visa allows foreign professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to bypass the labor certification process if their work benefits the U.S. in areas like healthcare, education, or economic development. Learn More

Path to the Green Card

This visa provides a pathway to U.S. permanent residency.

No Job Offer Required

Applicants can self-petition without needing a U.S. employer to sponsor them.

Flexible Criteria

The visa is accessible to individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities, particularly in areas benefiting the U.S.

Labor Certification Waiver

The usual labor certification process can be waived if the work benefits U.S. national interest.Business Visa

United States
EB5 Visa

The EB-5 visa, part of the Immigrant Investor Program, allows foreign investors to obtain U.S. permanent residency by investing in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers. Learn More

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Investors and their immediate family can obtain a Green Card.

No Sponsor Required

Investors can self-petition without needing a U.S. employer.

Investment Flexibility

Investors can choose between direct investment in their business or through a Regional Center.

Job Creation

The program encourages economic growth by requiring the creation of at least 10 jobs for U.S. workers.

Apply for the Start-Up Visa or the Business Visa you most liked with Lincoln Global Partners

Lincoln Global Partners, an immigration consultancy specialized in residency and citizenship by investment programs is ready to assist you every step of the way with your Business application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Start-Up Visa Countries?

Start-Up Visa programs are available in many countries aiming to attract foreign entrepreneurs. These countries include Portugal, Estonia, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Italy, Brazil, and several others, each offering pathways for business development and innovation.

What are the start-up visa requirements?

Common requirements for a Start-Up Visa include:

• A business plan outlining the startup idea and its market potential.
• Innovation in the business concept.
• Securing investment or local support from accredited sources.
• Demonstrating potential for job creation and economic growth in the host country.

What is the best start-up visa?

The “best” Start-Up Visa depends on factors like business needs, sector focus, and personal preferences. For instance, Portugal’s Start-Up Visa is known for its focus on innovation, while Estonia offers a streamlined process for tech startups. The UK Innovator Founder Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic market without a minimum investment requirement.

Does the UK offer a Start-up visa?

Yes, the UK offers the Innovator Founder Visa, designed for entrepreneurs with new, scalable business ideas. This visa doesn’t require a minimum investment and provides a pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for early-stage entrepreneurs.

What is a start-up business visa?

A Start-Up Business Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to enter a country to establish and grow an innovative business. These visas typically support businesses that contribute to the local economy through innovation, job creation, and economic development, providing opportunities for residency and potential citizenship.