How long is the start-up permit valid and what happens after the year?

The start-up permit gives you up to one year to develop your innovative business with your facilitator's support. It is intended as a launch phase rather than a long-term status.

When the year ends, the usual next step is to apply for the self-employed residence permit, which requires your facilitator to confirm the mentoring went well and that your business is developing as planned. In effect, the start-up year is the on-ramp and the self-employed permit is how you continue once your venture is established.