Portugal D2 Visa For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent professionals

The Portugal D2 Visa is a national long-stay visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent professionals who want to start a business or work for themselves in Portugal. The process involves first obtaining a 4-month visa, then applying for a renewable residence permit after you arrive in Portugal.

The table below summarizes the core requirements and application steps for the D2 Visa.

Aspect

Key Details

Who It's For

Entrepreneurs starting a business; business owners opening a branch; freelancers/independent professionals with a service contract.

Financial Requirements

Personal subsistence: €10,440+ (main applicant) in a Portuguese bank account. Business investment: No official minimum; must be viable (often €5,000+ for small businesses).

Main Benefits

Live/work in Portugal; visa-free travel in Schengen Area; family reunification; path to permanent residency/citizenship after 5 years.

Application Steps

1. Obtain Portuguese NIF (Tax ID) & open bank account.

2. Prepare business plan & documents.

3. Apply via Portuguese Consulate/E-Visa portal.

4. Enter Portugal & apply for Residence Permit with AIMA.

📝 In-Depth Requirements and Process

Eligibility and Document Checklist

To qualify, you must demonstrate a viable business or professional plan and sufficient financial means. You will need both business and personal documents.

Business & Professional Documents

• Business Plan: A detailed plan showing economic viability and contribution to Portugal's economy (e.g., job creation, innovation).
• Declaration of Investment: Outlining the investment's type, value, timeframe, and relevance.
• Proof of Company Setup: Evidence you have registered a company in Portugal or have the financial means to do so.
• Service Contract (for Freelancers): A written contract or proposal for services from a Portuguese entity.

Personal Documents

• Portuguese NIF (Tax ID) and Bank Account: Mandatory for application.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements showing sufficient funds for personal subsistence.
• Criminal Record Certificate: From country/countries of residence for the past year.
• Proof of Accommodation: Rental agreement or property deed in Portugal.
• Valid Passport, completed application form, photos, and valid health insurance.

Financial Requirements Explained

• Personal Subsistence: You must prove you can support yourself and family members without income from your business. The main applicant needs 100% of the Portuguese minimum annual wage (€10,440). Add 50% (€5,220) for a spouse and 30% (€3,132) per child.
• Business Investment: No legal minimum, but must be credible for your business plan. Small businesses often have around €5,000 in share capital.

Step-by-Step Application Journey

1. Prepare in Advance: Obtain your NIF and open a Portuguese bank account, then deposit required personal subsistence funds.
2. Secure Accommodation: Arrange long-term housing (1-year lease recommended).
3. Submit Visa Application: Apply online via the E-Visa portal or in-person at the Portuguese Consulate/Embassy in your home country. Include all documents and pay the €90 visa fee.
4. Wait for Approval: Processing takes up to 60 days. Once approved, you receive a 4-month D2 Visa.
5. Apply for Residence Permit in Portugal: Enter Portugal within visa validity and schedule an appointment with AIMA. Submit biometrics and documents, pay the €170 fee, and receive your residence card valid for two years, renewable for three.

⚖️ Comparison with Other Portuguese Visas

Visa Type

Purpose

Key Financial Requirement

Stay Requirement

D2 Visa

Entrepreneurship, independent work

Viable business investment; €10,440+ personal funds

4 months in first year; 6+ months per year thereafter

D7 Visa

Passive income (pensions, rentals, dividends)

Proof of stable passive income; €10,440+ personal funds

Similar to D2 Visa

Golden Visa

Investment in funds, job creation, or donations

€250,000 to €500,000 depending on investment route

Very low: an average of 7 days per year

💡 Important Considerations for a Successful Application

• Start Business Formalities Early: While not always mandatory before the visa, initiating company registration or having a signed service contract significantly strengthens your application.
• Craft a Solid Business Plan: This is the most critical document. It must convincingly demonstrate your business's viability, economic contribution, and potential for job creation.
• Understand Tax Obligations: As a resident, you must comply with Portuguese tax laws. The "Non-Habitual Resident" (NHR) regime offered tax benefits but is now closed for new applicants. Consult a tax advisor for current obligations and potential incentives.
• Plan for Citizenship: After five years of legal residency, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Citizenship requires basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2 level)