Which Countries Have Startup Visas in 2026?

As a founder looking to expand globally, you might ask: “Which countries have startup visas in 2026?” There are more than 20 active startup visa programs across 5 continents for innovative entrepreneurs that would like to internationalize their businesses.

From 44 countries in Europe, 13 countries including the Netherlands, Estonia, Finland, France, the UK and others offer startup visas. Besides Europe, 5 countries in Asia like Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and 2 countries in America including Canada and Chile have startup visa programs.

In this blog, we briefly describe the top countries that have startup visa programs.

Which Countries Have Startup Visas?

The startup visa countries have well-developed innovation hubs, strong startup ecosystems, founder-friendly policies and clear residency pathways. Below, we’ve listed the startup visa countries by region.

Startup Visa Countries in Europe

Startup Visa Countries in Asia

Startup Visa Countries in North America

Startup Visa Countries in South America

Startup Visa Countries in Australasia

If you would like to get expert guidance to compare Startup Visa programs in different countries and find the best path for your business, fill out the consultation form now.

Why Do Countries Offer Startup Visas and Attract Global Entrepreneurs?

Many countries have created a startup visa program in their business ecosystem to attract elite entrepreneurs from other countries.

By startup visa, they attract innovative businesses and international talent, create jobs, and increase global competitiveness. 

Countries that are offering startup visa programs create open access to global markets, offer entrepreneurs funding and venture capital opportunities, facilitate professional networking and foster an innovative and supportive business ecosystem.

Which Country Offers the Ecosystem You Need for Your Startup?

Choose the country that its industries match your startup’s sector for better local support and funding:

This alignment increases the chance of success and easier integration into local startup networks and visa programs.

Top 6 Countries that Have Startup Visa 

From the 22 countries that we mentioned above, 6 countries are highly demanded among entrepreneurs worldwide. Notably, 5 leading European countries alongside Canada offer startup visa programs with no capital requirements.

The Netherlands Startup Visa, Founder-Friendly and Entrepreneur Supporter

The Netherlands, ranked 4th startup ecosystem in the EU. This European country has over 41,000 startups. The Netherlands startup visa program is one of the most flexible and founder friendly startup visas in Europe that has a high acceptance rate compared to other European startup visa programs.

With a population of over 17 million, this country has a very dynamic startup ecosystem. 

French Tech Visa, Max Initial PR in EU  

France has the 12th rank in the EU startup ecosystem. This country has the maximum initial PR among EU countries that is extendable by 2 years. In France Startup Visa Program 2025 we have mentioned that more than 29,000 startups exist in this country and most of them are in the software sector.

Estonia Startup Visa, The Fastest Startup Visa in EU

Estonia is the accurate choice for technology based startups with the 5th rank in EU startup ecosystem. Based on the Estonia startup visa program, this country with the lower cost of living compared to other European countries has the fastest startup visa in the EU. 

Finland Startup Visa, The Affordable Startup Visa in EU

Finland holds the 7th position in the EU startup ecosystem. Despite its small population, the country has over 10,000 startups. As it is mentioned in the Finland startup visa program, this country is ranked 1st in Europe for well-being and life quality. Finland has one of the most affordable startup visas in Europe.

UK Innovator Founder Visa, Gateway to Europe’s Best Startup Ecosystem

The UK is one of the countries with the best startup ecosystem, ranking 2 in the EU. This country has supportive policies and networking for founders. It has a suitable market for almost all startup sectors.

As stated in the UK Innovator Founder Visa Program, the citizenship path of this country is relatively long at 10 years, but like France, it has a long initial residency of 3 years which is extendable by 2 years.

Canada Startup Visa, The Only PR-First Program

Canada offers permanent residency to startup founders from day one. This startup visa is suitable for entrepreneurs who do not want to extend their visas annually. 

All the required information is explained on the Canada startup visa program. Generally, the processing time of this program takes 24 to 40 months. The language certificate is necessary.

There are more than 50,000 startups in this country. Canada has a supportive startup ecosystem for businesses in the fields of AI and fintech. 

8 Tips for Choosing the Right Country for Your Startup

The best choice depends on your business goals, industry, and personal factors like financial capacity, and long-term targets. Below are the tips for choosing the right country for your startup:

1. Choose a Country That Supports Your Industry 
2. Evaluate Startup Visa Requirements and Accessibility 
3. Consider Market Access and Growth Opportunities  
4. Check Long-Term Stay and Residency Options
5. Evaluate Cost of Living and Business Expenses  
6. Check Language and Cultural Compatibility
7. Seek Local Support Networks and Resources  
8. Research Tax Incentives and Business-Friendly Policies 

 At Reevolve, we have a free assessment that you can find out which country is the best fit for your startup condition.

Choose the Best Startup Visa Country with Reevolve

In recent years, we at Reevolve have successfully launched +45 business in dynamic and founder-friendly countries without any rejections. You can read the success stories of Founders We’ve Helped Go Global to see how Reevolve has guided entrepreneurs toward thriving international business ecosystems.

At Reevolve, we assess your business goals and personal conditions to find the suitable country and visa program that matches your vision. If you tend to enter the top European ecosystems or take the direct route to Canada, our experts with more than 5 years of experience in the startup visa field assists you on this path.

Book your free consultation with Reevolve and see which startup visa program is the best fit for your startup’s success.

Sources:

• NanoGlobals
• Red-White-Red Card for Start-up Founders
• Cyprus Startup Visa Scheme
• Danish Business Authority
• Italian Startup Visa
• Latvia Startup Visa
• Startup Visa Lithuania
• Portugal StartUP Visa
• San Marino Startup Visa
• Japan Startup Visa
• Malaysia New Entrepreneur Pass
• EntrePass (Innovator)
• K-Startup Grand Challenge
• Taiwan Startup Visa
• Entrepreneur Work Visa