IAPMEI plays a crucial role in the Tech Visa program, providing support to companies hiring foreign tech talent, facilitating visa applications, promoting Portugal as a tech hub, and driving innovation in the tech industry.
The IAPMEI (Instituto de Apoio às Pequenas e Médias Empresas e à Inovação), or the Institute for Support to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Innovation, plays a crucial role in the administration and implementation of the Tech Visa program in Portugal. Here’s an overview of its responsibilities:
1. Certification of Companies
- Certifying Eligible Companies: One of the primary roles of the IAPMEI in the Tech Visa program is to certify companies that wish to hire foreign tech professionals under this visa scheme. Companies must meet specific criteria related to innovation, financial stability, and contribution to the Portuguese economy. The IAPMEI assesses these companies to ensure they are suitable participants in the Tech Visa program.
- Maintaining Standards: By certifying companies, the IAPMEI ensures that only those organizations that contribute positively to Portugal’s tech ecosystem and have the capacity to offer high-quality employment opportunities can be hired under the Tech Visa program. This helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the program .
2. Program Oversight and Monitoring
- Ongoing Monitoring: The IAPMEI is responsible for the ongoing monitoring of certified companies to ensure they continue to meet the standards required by the Tech Visa program. This includes checking compliance with labor laws, verifying that the roles offered to Tech Visa holders are aligned with the program's objectives, and ensuring that companies uphold the conditions under which they were certified.
- Reviewing Performance: The institute also periodically reviews the performance of the Tech Visa program, assessing its impact on the tech industry and the broader Portuguese economy. This involves gathering data, analyzing outcomes, and making recommendations for improvements to the program.
3. Support and Guidance
- Assisting Companies: The IAPMEI provides support and guidance to companies that are part of the Tech Visa program. This includes helping them understand the application process, clarifying eligibility requirements, and offering advice on how to effectively integrate foreign tech professionals into their workforce.
- Facilitating the Application Process: The IAPMEI also plays a role in facilitating the application process for companies seeking certification. They provide detailed information and resources to ensure that companies can successfully navigate the requirements of the Tech Visa program.
4. Collaboration with Other Government Entities
- Cooperation with Immigration Authorities: The IAPMEI works closely with other Portuguese government entities, such as the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF), which handles immigration and residency matters. This collaboration ensures that the Tech Visa process is seamless and that all aspects of the program, from company certification to visa issuance, are coordinated effectively.
Summary
The IAPMEI plays a vital role in the Tech Visa program by certifying eligible companies, monitoring compliance, supporting participating companies, and collaborating with other government entities. This ensures that the Tech Visa program attracts highly skilled professionals and contributes effectively to the growth of Portugal's tech sector.