10 Countries That Offer Startup Visas for Entrepreneurs
Being an entrepreneur today doesn’t just mean starting a business—it also opens doors to global opportunities. Many countries recognize the value of innovative startups in boosting their economies, creating jobs, and fostering technological growth. As a result, more than 40 countries now offer special startup visas to attract talented foreign entrepreneurs.
A Startup Visa gives non-citizen founders a chance to live and grow their business in a new country—often in high-impact sectors like tech, health, clean energy, and fintech. These visas typically last for 2–3 years and can lead to permanent residency or even citizenship, depending on the business’s success and national requirements.
Here are 10 countries that offer compelling visa programs for entrepreneurs:
🇨🇦 Canada
Start-Up Visa Program
Canada’s Start-Up Visa is one of the few programs that offer permanent residency from day one. It targets innovative entrepreneurs who can create jobs and compete globally. To qualify, applicants must:
- Secure support from a designated organization (VC fund, angel investor, or business incubator)
- Meet minimum language and settlement fund requirements
This program has helped many startups find a new home in Canada’s thriving tech and business ecosystem.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Innovator Founder Visa
The UK’s Innovator Founder Visa is designed for entrepreneurs with scalable and innovative business ideas endorsed by an approved body. Key features include:
- No initial investment funds required
- Eligibility for permanent residency after 3 years
It replaces the former Start-Up and Innovator Visas and positions the UK as a startup-friendly destination.
🇺🇸 United States
International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP)
Though the US doesn’t have a dedicated startup visa, the IEP program allows foreign startup founders to live and work in the US temporarily. To qualify, founders must:
- Demonstrate substantial funding (from investors or government)
- Show high potential for job creation
While not a direct path to a green card, it can open doors to longer-term residency options for successful ventures.
🇵🇹 Portugal
Startup Visa
Portugal’s Startup Visa welcomes non-EU entrepreneurs looking to develop innovative, tech-based businesses. Requirements include:
- Acceptance into a certified Portuguese incubator
- A business model with job creation potential and minimum financial benchmarks
Residency can eventually lead to Portuguese citizenship after five years.
🇸🇬 Singapore
EntrePass
Singapore offers the EntrePass for foreign entrepreneurs starting venture-backed or innovation-driven companies in key sectors like tech, biotech, and sustainability. Applicants must:
- Be supported by a recognized VC or incubator
- Demonstrate innovation and growth potential
EntrePass holders may later apply for permanent residency under Singapore’s business and talent schemes.
🇦🇺 Australia
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188)
Australia’s Subclass 188 includes a Business Innovation stream ideal for startup founders. Applicants must:
- Present a viable business plan
- Have access to funding or financial backing
Successful entrepreneurs can later transition to permanent residency via the Subclass 888 visa.
🇩🇪 Germany
Self-Employment Visa
While Germany doesn’t offer a formal startup visa, its Self-Employment Visa allows entrepreneurs to establish businesses that bring economic benefit to the country. Requirements include:
- A strong business plan
- Market demand for the business
After three years of operation, entrepreneurs may apply for permanent residency. Berlin, in particular, is known as a European startup hotspot.
🇪🇸 Spain
Entrepreneur Visa
Under Spain’s Entrepreneur Law, non-EU founders can apply for a visa to develop innovative business ventures. The visa offers:
- A renewable residence permit
- A pathway to permanent residency and citizenship
Applicants must submit their business plan for approval to Spain’s Trade and Investment Office and prove its economic impact.
🇮🇪 Ireland
Start-Up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
Ireland’s STEP visa targets high-potential startups, especially in technology and life sciences. To be eligible, founders must:
- Have at least €50,000 in startup funding
- Propose a scalable business idea
The visa grants an initial 2-year residency, extendable to lead toward permanent status.
🇫🇷 France
French Tech Visa for Founders
France’s French Tech Visa is part of a broader initiative to attract global entrepreneurial talent. Benefits include:
- A 4-year renewable residence permit
- Fast-track approval for accompanying family members
Founders must be supported by an approved incubator or accelerator and have a project deemed “innovative” by French authorities.
Final Thoughts
Startup visas are more than just entry permits—they’re launchpads for global growth. Whether you’re a tech founder, biotech innovator, or clean-energy disruptor, these countries offer a mix of support, infrastructure, and long-term opportunities for international entrepreneurs. Choosing the right country depends on your business model, market fit, and long-term goals—but each of these 10 nations can offer the chance to build something world-changing.
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