Thank you very much for your question. The HQA (Highly Qualified Activity) visa is an excellent option for those who wish to establish themselves legally in Portugal based on recognised technical or scientific skills, combining business innovation and collaboration with higher education institutions or research centres. ✔ What is the HQA Visa? The HQA visa was created based on article 61 of Law no. 23/2007 (Foreigners Law), and allows residence in Portugal for highly qualified individuals, with an innovative and entrepreneurial profile, who are interested in: Setting up an innovative company in Portugal, Developing a research or technology-based project in partnership with a Portuguese university. 🎯 Essential Qualification Requirements To qualify for the HQA visa, it is important to meet the following elements: 1. Highly Qualified Professional Profile Have higher education (preferably postgraduate or master's degree) in areas such as technology, science, engineering, health, finance, management or similar. It is not mandatory to currently work at a university, but the profile must demonstrate high technical knowledge and practical experience, whether in academia, the public sector or the private sector. Previous experience in leadership, innovation or management of scientific/technological projects is an important advantage. 2. Establishment of an Innovative Company in Portugal The company must be registered in Portugal with a suggested minimum share capital of €50,000 to €175,000, depending on the project. The company will develop a technology-based or applied research project, in partnership with a Portuguese scientific institution. 3. Partnership with a University or Research Centre The project must be validated and put together by a higher education institution in Portugal, with which a cooperation protocol for research and development will be signed. 4. Business Plan and Documentation Preparation of a structured business plan and an applied research plan. Complete personal documentation (valid passport, criminal record, health insurance, proof of means of subsistence and address in Portugal). ✅ Is it necessary to have experience in the private sector? It is not mandatory. The most important thing is that the candidate demonstrates: Advanced technical knowledge, Capacity for leadership or execution of value-added projects, Vision to develop something that can be transferred to the Portuguese business community or generate scientific innovation. Therefore, a profile with a strong academic background may be perfectly eligible, as long as we can present a solid project with business and scientific perspectives. 🔍 How can I help you? As a lawyer specializing in immigration and business in Portugal, I can offer complete and personalized advice on all stages of the HQA process: Analysis of your profile and eligibility; Structuring the company project and business plan; Intermediation with universities and research centers in Portugal; Legal constitution of the company; Preparation and submission of the visa application with legal certainty; Support with SEF and consulates. The HQA program is highly advantageous, with fast approval (usually in 30 to 60 days) and easy access to permanent residence and Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
