In an increasingly globalized economy, many countries are opening their doors to foreign entrepreneurs with bold, innovative business ideas. Whether you’re a tech founder, a creative startup visionary, or an investor looking to scale internationally, several nations now offer special entrepreneur or startup visas to attract global talent.
These visa programs often provide a path not just to launch your business, but also to secure residency—and in some cases, even citizenship. While the requirements vary, most emphasize innovation, job creation, and the potential for economic impact.
Here are 10 countries offering entrepreneur-friendly visa options for those ready to take their business global:
1. Canada
Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who can create jobs and compete globally. To qualify, applicants must secure backing from a designated organisation (like a venture capital fund or business incubator), meet language proficiency standards, and demonstrate financial stability. Successful candidates receive permanent residency right from the start.
2. United Kingdom
The UK’s Innovator Founder Visa, which replaced the Start-Up and Innovator visas, targets entrepreneurs with scalable, original business ideas endorsed by an approved organisation. No upfront investment is required, but applicants must prove the idea is viable and innovative. The visa can lead to permanent residency after 3 years.
3. United States
While the U.S. lacks a formal startup visa, the International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP) program allows foreign startup founders to live and work in the U.S. temporarily. To qualify, founders must secure significant investment or government grants and demonstrate potential for job creation. It’s not a direct route to a green card, but it can be a valuable stepping stone.
4. Portugal
Portugal’s Startup Visa targets non-EU entrepreneurs who want to launch innovative tech-based ventures. Applicants must join a certified incubator and show plans for job creation and business scalability. The visa leads to residency and has a path to citizenship after 5 years.
5. Singapore
Singapore offers the EntrePass for foreign entrepreneurs launching venture-backed or innovative businesses, especially in tech, sustainability, and biotech. Backing from a government-recognised incubator or VC is essential. The visa is renewable, and successful applicants can later apply for permanent residency.
6. Australia
Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188) includes a stream for startup entrepreneurs. Applicants must have a viable business plan and access to adequate funding. The visa can eventually lead to permanent residency under Subclass 888.
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7. Germany
Germany doesn’t offer a dedicated startup visa, but its Self-Employment Visa allows entrepreneurs to build businesses that provide clear economic benefits. A strong business plan is key. After three years of success, applicants can qualify for permanent residency.
8. Spain
Spain’s Startup Visa, part of its Entrepreneur Law, is available to non-EU founders with innovative business ideas. Approval from Spain’s trade and investment office is required, and the idea must be of high economic interest. It offers residency with a path to long-term stay and citizenship.
9. Ireland
Ireland’s Start-Up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is aimed at non-EU founders with high-potential startups, especially in tech, healthcare, and life sciences. Entrepreneurs must show at least €50,000 in funding and present a scalable business plan. The visa grants 2 years of residency, renewable and leading to permanent residency.
10. France
France’s French Tech Visa for Founders supports foreign entrepreneurs backed by a recognised incubator or accelerator. It provides a 4-year renewable residence permit, offers a fast-track process, and allows family members to join. It’s part of France’s larger push to become a startup and innovation hub.