Startup Visa

Many inventors and entrepreneurs with new ideas and startups seek to expand their markets by establishing branches or relocating their businesses to other countries. In response, many countries have created special programs to attract innovative startups – sometimes even offering residency to founders who meet specific requirements.

Each country has its own rules for welcoming new ideas, investing in them, and granting temporary or permanent residency. At AppPatent, we have already helped more than 100 startups around the world successfully transfer their innovative business ideas to approved target markets. If you are interested in expanding your startup, you can start with a free initial consultation.

Our team has successfully obtained approvals in countries such as Canada, the United States, Austria, the Netherlands, Turkey, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. Below, you can find an overview of some of the key programs.

Startup Visa illustration
United States – EB2 NIW

The United States does not currently offer a dedicated “Startup Visa” program. However, many inventors and business owners can use the EB2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) category to relocate their businesses and obtain permanent residency.

Under the EB2 NIW program, you may apply directly for a Green Card if you can show that your research, inventions, or business provide substantial benefits to U.S. national interests – for example through job creation, improved efficiency, environmental benefits, or other positive impacts on the U.S. economy and society.

Unlike many other immigration programs, EB2 NIW does not require proof of English language scores, specific age limits, or minimum income levels. However, you must demonstrate that you are a recognized expert or talent at the national or international level in your field.

Canada – Startup Visa Program

Canada offers a dedicated Startup Visa Program. If one of more than 70 government-approved organizations endorses your business plan and idea – or if you secure investment from them – you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

These designated organizations fall into three main categories:

  • Angel Investors – Must agree to invest at least CAD 75,000 in your company.
  • Venture Capital Funds – Must agree to invest at least CAD 200,000 in your idea.
  • Incubators – Do not require direct investment but must agree to support your business. You will establish and grow your startup under their supervision and report your progress monthly or quarterly, which can involve additional costs.

Key requirements for the Canadian Startup Visa include:

  • Minimum English language proficiency at B2 level.
  • No official age limit, although applicants over 60 may find it harder to obtain support letters.
  • Processing time typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years.

Due to government restrictions, each designated organization can issue only around ten support letters per year. This has made the process more competitive and time-consuming than in the past.

Other Countries

Many European countries and the United Kingdom offer startup visa programs that are similar in structure, with only minor differences in requirements. A key point is that most of these programs do not grant permanent residency at the initial stage.

Typically, you will first receive a temporary residence permit. After entering the market, building traction, and meeting specific performance and compliance standards, you may become eligible to apply for permanent residency.

This approach often makes it easier to obtain the first support letters and enter the country, but converting temporary residency into permanent status requires carefully meeting a second set of conditions later on.

How We Can Help You

Our team supports you throughout the entire process – from choosing the right country to preparing documents, negotiating with designated organizations, and working with immigration attorneys.

The basic steps are:

  1. Registration – Sign up and access your personal dashboard.
  2. Submit Your Request – Enter your target country or countries, along with your business information and personal résumé.
  3. Expert Review – Our team quickly reviews your information and recommends the best option for your case.
  4. Agreement – Once you approve the proposed plan, we formally begin the process.

After signing the contract, our team will:

  • Prepare your idea for intellectual property protection in the target country.
  • Develop your business plan and pitch deck.
  • Assist with building your MVP (Minimum Viable Product).
  • Create your website and social media presence.
  • Plan financial strategies and projections for your startup.
  • Collect and organize all required documents.

In the second phase, we negotiate with designated organizations to obtain a support letter. Once a support letter is issued, our immigration attorney guides you through the visa process so that you can enter your target country as quickly and safely as possible.

Get started today: submit your request now and connect with our expert consultants to begin your startup visa journey.