From Dreams to Destinations
From Dreams to Destinations
Discover the unique opportunities Portugal offers for entrepreneurs looking to launch their startup. With a welcoming environment, access to funding, and a strategic location within the EU, the Startup Visa provides a solid foundation for growing your business in one of Europe's most dynamic markets.
Establish Your Global Presence
You must start an innovative, scalable business in the UK. There's no fixed investment amount; an approved endorsing body must support your idea. Setting up a company costs a few hundred pounds, depending on your business structure.
You must prove you can support yourself and your family. For yourself, you'll need to have £1,270, for your partner £285, for the first child £315, and for additional children £200. Keep this money in your account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
The application fee is £1,191 if you apply from outside the UK or £1,486 if you apply from within the UK. You also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year, which adds up to £3,105 for a 3-year visa.
You pay £1,000 for your endorsement, plus £500 for two assessments (totaling £2,000). Legal fees range from £2,000 to £3,000 (excluding VAT). Additional costs may include English tests, document translations, medical exams, and police clearance.
Your Gateway to Innovative Founder Visa UK: $50k+ Investment Amount 6-12 Months Waiting Period 180 Countries Visa-Free Entry
The first thing you will need is to get an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. They will be sure that your business idea is new and that your idea can't already exist in the market; it has to be innovative and scalable. The endorsing body will give you a letter, but it has to be dated no earlier than three months before you submit your application.
You'll need the endorsement letter, a valid passport or another ID document, and proof of at least £1,270 in savings. You'll also need to prove your English skills, either with a Secure English Language Test (SELT), a recognized academic qualification, or by being from an English-speaking country. If required, you'll need to provide tuberculosis test results and certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh.
After you've collected all the materials, you can apply online. You will need to complete the application form and have your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph. You may be required to use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check app or attend a visa application center if you are somewhere else.
Once you submit your application, you will have to wait for a decision. Average process times differ depending on where you are applying from. If you apply from elsewhere, it usually takes around three weeks. If you're applying from inside the UK, it will usually take about eight weeks. It could take longer if they require more information or an interview.
If you're approved, you'll receive your visa to enter or stay in the UK. You'll need to meet with your endorsing body at least twice during your stay. And if you want your family to join you, they can apply as dependents.
Our expert-driven process is faster, easier, and completely hassle-free.
| Terms | Startup Visa | Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | £50,000+ | No investment required |
| Processing Time | 6-12 Months | 4-12 Months |
| Residency | Must run a business in the UK | Must contribute to UK economy |
| Family | Included | Included |
| Investment Period | No fixed term | No fixed term |
| Fees | £1,270 (Main Applicant) + £1,035 (per dependent) | £623 (Main Applicant) + £1,032 (per dependent) |
