How to Apply for an Entrepreneurship Visa in Portugal: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re an entrepreneur who’s interested in starting a business in Portugal, then you’ll need to apply for an entrepreneurship visa. Thankfully, the process isn’t overly complicated and can be broken down into manageable steps. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at how to apply for an entrepreneurship visa in Portugal.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for an entrepreneurship visa in Portugal, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria. To be eligible for a Portuguese entrepreneurship visa, you must:
– Be an entrepreneur with a scalable and innovative business idea that’s economically viable
– Have a minimum investment of €32500, and a viable business plan
– Have relevant business experience or training
– Be capable of creating jobs, boosting economic growth and contributing to the competitiveness of the Portuguese economy
Step 2: Register Your Business in Portugal
Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you’ll need to register your business in Portugal. You can complete this step online via the ‘Empresa na Hora’ platform.
To register your business, you’ll need:
– A valid passport or ID card
– A list of potential company names
– Your business plan
– A registered address in Portugal
– Your company’s memorandum of association and articles of association
Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive your Business Identification Number (NIF) and Company Registration Certificate.
Step 3: Access Capital
To secure an entrepreneurship visa in Portugal, you must be able to demonstrate your financial capacity to invest in Portugal. Potential entrepreneurs must obtain a bank guarantee, or have proof of a bank deposit, equivalent to 25% of the minimum investment amount, that is, €8125.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
With your business registered and finances secured, the next step is to submit your application. You can submit your application online or at one of the Portuguese consulates in your home country.
Your application must include:
– Your business plan and proof of investment
– Details on your experience and training
– Your passport or ID card, valid for at least three months
– A criminal record certificate from your country of origin
– Proof of sufficient funds
– Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Step 5: Attend an Interview
After submitting your application, you’ll be invited to an interview with the Portuguese Immigration and Border Service. The interview will focus on your business plan, your background, and your ability to create jobs and boost economic growth in Portugal.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
After attending the interview, you’ll need to wait for a decision on your entrepreneurship visa application. The decision can take up to six months and will be communicated to you via email.
Conclusion
Applying for an entrepreneurship visa in Portugal is a manageable process for eligible entrepreneurs. By following these six steps, you’ll be on the right path towards setting up your business and contributing to the Portuguese economy. Remember that each step requires careful attention to detail and accurate completion of application forms, so be prepared to invest the necessary time and energy to succeed.
