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Startup Visa Programs

Startup Visa Programs

Startup Visa programs are designed to attract entrepreneurs, business innovators, and investors who have the potential to create high-growth businesses. These visas offer a pathway to residency and citizenship while promoting economic development and innovation.

United Kingdom: Start-up Visa

  • Eligibility
  • Investment
  • Duration
  • Path to Settlement

Eligibility:

  1. Innovative Idea: Must have an original business idea that is viable and scalable.
  2. Endorsement: Endorsed by an authorized body, such as a higher education institution or a business organization with a history of supporting UK entrepreneurs.
  3. Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
  4. English Proficiency: Must meet the English language requirement.

Investment:

No specific minimum investment required.

Duration:

Initially granted for 2 years, with the possibility to switch to an Innovator Visa for further development and stay.

Path to Settlement:

After switching to an Innovator Visa and meeting certain criteria, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 3 years.

Canada: Start-up Visa Program

  • Eligibility
  • Investment
  • Duration
  • Path to Settlement

Eligibility:

  1. Designated Organization Support: Must have a letter of support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).
  2. Qualifying Business: Must meet ownership requirements; up to 5 people can apply as owners, each holding at least 10% of the voting rights.
  3. Language Proficiency: Must meet the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in English or French.
  4. Settlement Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to settle and support yourself and your family in Canada.

Investment:

No minimum investment requirement from the applicant; however, the designated organization must commit to supporting the business.

Duration:

Permanent residency is granted upon approval of the visa application.

Path to Settlement:

Direct path to permanent residency, with the potential for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Australia: Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188) - Entrepreneur Stream

  • Eligibility
  • Investment
  • Duration
  • Path to Settlement

Eligibility:

  1. Nomination: Must be nominated by a state or territory government.
  2. Funding Agreement: Agreement for at least AUD 200,000 from a third party to carry out entrepreneurial activity in Australia..
  3. Business Plan: Must present a realistic and credible business plan.
  4. Age: Generally, under 55 years of age, though exceptions can be made.

Investment:

Minimum funding agreement of AUD 200,000.

Duration:

Valid for up to 5 years.

Path to Settlement:

Eligible for the Permanent Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888) after meeting certain business and residency requirements.

New Zealand: Entrepreneur Work Visa

  • Eligibility
  • Investment
  • Duration
  • Path to Settlement

Eligibility:

  1. Business Plan:Must submit a comprehensive business plan showing how your business will benefit New Zealand.
  2. Investment: Minimum capital investment of NZD 100,000 (excluding working capital), though exceptions can be made.
  3. Experience: Relevant business experience.
  4. Points-Based System: Must meet a points requirement based on factors like age, business experience, and investment capital.

Investment:

Minimum of NZD 100,000.

Duration:

Initially valid for 12 months to establish the business, extendable to 3 years upon meeting certain milestones.

Path to Settlement:

Eligible for the Entrepreneur Residence Visa after successfully operating the business for 2 years (or 6 months under certain conditions).

Ireland: Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)

  • Eligibility
  • Investment
  • Duration
  • Path to Settlement

Eligibility:

  1. Innovative Business Proposal: Must present a high-potential start-up proposal in manufacturing or internationally traded services.
  2. Funding: Minimum funding of €50,000.
  3. Job Creation: Potential to create 10 jobs in Ireland and achieve €1 million in sales within 3-4 years.
  4. Good Character: Applicants must be of good character and without a criminal record.

Investment:

Minimum funding of €50,000.

Duration:

Initially granted for 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

Path to Settlement:

Eligible for long-term residency after 5 years, with the potential for citizenship.

Benefits of Startup Visa Programs

  1. Global Opportunities: Launch your business in a supportive environment with access to international markets.
  2. Access to Funding: Potential for substantial investment from government bodies, venture capitalists, and other designated organizations.
  3. Support and Mentorship: Benefit from mentoring, business incubators, and networking opportunities to help grow your business.
  4. Path to Permanent Residency: Many programs offer a direct route to permanent residency and eventual citizenship, providing long-term stability.
  5. Economic Impact: Contribute to economic growth and innovation in your new country, creating jobs and advancing technology.

How to Apply

  1. Step 1: Research - Understand the specific requirements and opportunities of each country's startup visa program.
  2. Step 2: Prepare Your Business Plan - Develop a detailed and compelling business plan that meets the criteria of the visa program.
  3. Step 3: Secure Endorsement/Funding - Obtain support from a designated organization or secure the necessary funding.
  4. Step 4: Submit Application - Complete and submit your visa application along with all required documentation.
  5. Step 5: Move and Establish Your Business - Upon approval, relocate and start working on your business venture in the new country.

Contact Us

Ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey? Contact us for more information on how to apply for a Startup Visa and take the first step towards global business success.

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