Immigration
AIMA leaves entrepreneur with startup visa and her two children in illegal status in Portugal
A Brazilian entrepreneur approved by IAPMEI for a cybersecurity startup visa has had her residency request denied by AIMA, effectively placing her and her two children in an irregular situation. Despite the business being vetted and accepted under the national program, the administrative process at AIMA has resulted in a denial that leaves the family's legal status in limbo.
Why it mattersThis case highlights significant administrative friction within the Startup Visa program, where approval by the national business agency (IAPMEI) is not currently guaranteeing a smooth residency path at AIMA, putting those relying on this visa at risk of becoming irregular despite following official procedures.
