Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa

For entrepreneurs, startup founders, and self-employed professionals

Overview

The D2 Entrepreneur Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to establish or expand businesses or work as freelancers in Portugal. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residence and citizenship while providing access to Portugal's business-friendly environment.

Processing Time

60 days (consular stage)
3-8 months total process

Visa Validity

Entry visa: 4 months
Initial residence: 1 year
Renewable for 2-year periods

Eligibility Requirements

Business Requirements

• Comprehensive business plan demonstrating viability and contribution to Portugal
• For freelancers: existing service contract or proposal and proof of professional competence

Financial Requirements

• Proof of sufficient funds to support the applicant and family for at least one year
• At least 100% of the Portuguese minimum annual salary for the main applicant
• 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child
• Access to the capital needed to launch and sustain the proposed business
• Evidence that the business will be financially viable in the long term

Personal Requirements

• Applicant is at least 18 years old
• Valid passport (at least six months beyond visa expiry)
• Clean criminal-record certificates issued within the previous 90 days
• Proof of suitable accommodation in Portugal
• Valid health-insurance policy covering Portugal
• Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)

Application Process

Phase 1: Preparation

Obtain NIF, open Portuguese bank account, prepare business plan and supporting documents

Phase 2: Consulate/Embassy

Submit the D2 visa application and pay the fee (appointment required)

Phase 3: Portugal

Enter on the 4-month visa, attend the AIMA appointment, submit biometrics and remaining documents for the residence permit

Required Documents

Personal Documents

• Valid passport
• Completed national-visa application form
• Two recent passport-size photographs
• Criminal-record certificates
• Recent bank statements (usually the last three months)
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
• Travel medical insurance covering the Schengen Area
• Statement of reasons for residence
• Signed consent for Portuguese criminal-register check

Business Documents

• Evidence of financial means for the proposed business activities
• If an existing company: certificate of incorporation, tax returns, bank details and recent financial statements
• For freelancers: service contracts or letters of intent and proof of professional qualifications
• Portuguese NIF
• Portuguese social-security registration (if obtained)
• Sector-specific licences or certifications where applicable
• Letters of investment support or incubation (optional)
• Details of share capital or investors, if relevant

Benefits

✓ Visa-free travel within the 27-country Schengen Area
✓ Eligibility for family reunification
✓ Path to permanent residence after five years and citizenship after six years
✓ Possible access to favourable tax treatment under the Non-Habitual Resident regime
✓ Access to Portugal's public healthcare (SNS) and education
✓ Business-friendly environment and high quality of life

Minimum Stay Requirements

• First year: at least 4 months in Portugal
• Each subsequent two-year period: at least 6 months per year or 16 months in the first two years and 28 months in the next three
• No absence longer than 6 consecutive months without justification

Common Reasons for Refusal

• Insufficient personal or business funds
• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
• Inadequate or unconvincing business plan
• Adverse criminal-record findings
• Lack of proof of accommodation
• Unclear purpose of stay or suspected intent to seek paid employment
• Submission of false information
• Weak business credentials or sector experience

Need Help with Your Application?

Our team can guide you through the D2 visa application process and help ensure your success.