What is the D2 ‘Entrepreneur’ Visa in Portugal?
The Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa, alternatively referred to as the Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa, is designed to grant residence authorisation to individuals from non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries.
Learn more about the Golden Visa options in Portugal
This visa is specifically targeted at those who have already invested or intend to engage in investment activities in Portugal.
This is through utilising financial resources, which may include funding acquired from a Portuguese financial institution.
Who can apply for D2 Visa in Portugal:
- Entrepreneurs who want to establish a business in Portugal.
- Entrepreneurs with an existing business in their home country seeking to establish a branch in Portugal.
- Self-employed individuals, including independent or liberal professionals, intending to work in Portugal with a pre-existing work contract or a documented work proposal. Freelancers and digital nomads are also eligible if they can demonstrate the provision of distinctive services pertinent to the country.
How to meet the criteria for applying for the D2 ‘Entrepreneur’ Visa
Meeting the criteria for the Portugal D2 Visa entails satisfying several requirements.
To successfully obtain the visa, evaluators assess the conditions and the potential contribution of the applicant's company to the country.
The following elements must be presented to support your application:
Declaration of Investment
Provide a declaration confirming your investment in Portugal, outlining its nature, value, and duration. The evaluation takes into account the economic, social, scientific, technological, or cultural relevance of the investment, with a focus on job creation in Portugal.
Learn more about other residency-by-investment visa options in Portugal...
Company Set Up
Furnish evidence of establishing a company operating in Portuguese territory or demonstrate financial resources within Portugal that indicate your capability to set up a company in the country.
Business Plan
Submit a well-structured business plan that undergoes scrutiny for its social, economic, and cultural impact. This plan should convincingly demonstrate that your business will thrive, contributing to economic growth.
Financial Capacity
Demonstrate the financial capacity to sustain your company throughout your intended stay in the country.
Personal Financial Means
Provide proof of possessing the financial means to reside in the country for a year, irrespective of your business income. The main applicant must have 100% of the minimum annual salary (€9,870), with additional requirements for a spouse and dependent children.
Share Capital
Indicate an initial capital ensuring the company's functionality, even in the absence of profits. Small companies in Portugal typically have an average social capital of €5,000, serving as a reference value for your application.
Health Insurance
Obtain comprehensive EU-wide health insurance coverage for both yourself and any dependent applicants. Access to the Public Healthcare System is granted upon receiving the residence card.
Service Contract
For liberal professionals, submit a written contract or proposal demonstrating your commitment to providing services.
Tax Representative
Non-EU citizens applying for the D2 Visa are required to appoint a Tax Representative in Portugal or opt for notification through the Portuguese Tax Authority via the tax authority portal or an official electronic mailbox.
Contact Portugal Pathways to find out more about receiving a tax representative...
What are the benefits of the D2 'Entrepreneur' Visa in Portugal?
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The D2 Visa offers a range of compelling benefits:
Establishment of Business or Independent Professional Work
Holders of the D2 Visa have the right to establish a business or work as an independent professional while residing in Portugal.
Schengen Area Access
Enjoy free entry and circulation within the Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries, without the need for an additional visa. Essentially, the D2 Visa provides travel rights equivalent to those of European Union citizens, facilitating seamless networking and corporate connections throughout Europe.
Family Reunification
The visa allows for family reunification in Portugal, enabling the family, including partners, children, parents, or siblings dependent on either partner, to also live in the country.
Qualification for Permanent Residence or Citizenship
After five years of legal permanent residence, D2 Visa holders may be eligible for permanent citizenship in Portugal through the country's residency program. It's important to note that citizenship is contingent upon passing a basic Portuguese language test.
Portuguese Residency Rights
Enjoy Portuguese residency rights, including access to the Public Healthcare System for you and your family, as well as enrolment of your children in the Public Education System.
How to renew the D2 'Entrepreneur' Visa in Portugal?
Renewing the D2 Visa involves a step-by-step process to secure the Portuguese Residence Permit, allowing you to reside and work in Portugal for one year.
This permit is renewable every two years, provided the applicant demonstrates the continuity of their professional activities.
After five years of legally authorised residence, applicants can request Portuguese nationality.
What are the minimum stay requirements for people under the D2 Visa in Portugal?
To continue residing in Portugal, applicants must spend a minimum of 4 months in the country during the first year and at least 6 months per year during each subsequent 3-year period.
How to apply for the D2 'Entrepreneur' Visa in Portugal
To apply for the D2 Visa, follow these steps
- Obtain a Portugal taxpayer identification number (NIF).
- Open a bank account in Portugal and transfer recommended funds (€12,000.00, plus €6,000.00 for the spouse and €3,600.00 per child).
- Secure long-term accommodation in the country through property purchase or rental (recommended for 1 year).
- Apply online through the E-Visa Portal at the Portuguese Consulate in your home country or in Portugal if you are already in the country.
When applying for a D2 Visa, you'll need the following documents
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months after the Visa expiry date).
- Two recent passport-size colour photos.
- Declaration outlining the reasons for Portugal residency.
- Valid Health Insurance Plan in Portugal or an affidavit stating the intention to purchase within 90 days of arrival.
- Criminal record certificate or Police clearance letter (FBI report for US residents) issued within 90 days before submission.
- Documentary evidence of accommodation in Portugal (property title deed or tenancy agreement).
- Documentary evidence of sufficient funds for subsistence in Portugal (e.g., local bank statement).
- For freelance professionals: Copy of a contract and, if applicable, proof of professional qualifications. For entrepreneurs: Business plan and proof of investment or access to necessary funding in Portugal.
What are the costs for a D2 Visa in Portugal
Government fees for this temporary residence Visa range between €50.63 and €158.15 per applicant. The primary costs incurred by the applicant include relocation expenses and professional fees, while alternative residency acquisition routes may be more expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some commonly asked questions around the D2 Visa in Portugal that might interest you.
How much money do I need to invest in my business for the D2 Visa?
There is no minimum investment requirement for the D2 Visa. However, your business plan should demonstrate financial viability and how you'll support yourself in Portugal.
Is there a minimum income requirement for the D2 Visa?
There's no set minimum income requirement. However, you must show you have enough funds to financially support yourself and your dependents throughout your stay in Portugal. Bank statements or other proof of income can help demonstrate this.
Can I bring my family with me on the D2 Visa?
Yes, the D2 Visa allows you to bring your spouse and dependent children (minor unmarried children) to Portugal. They will need to apply for their own dependent visas.
How long does the D2 Visa last?
The D2 Visa itself is initially valid for one year. However, it's tied to a residence permit that can be renewed for up to five years, provided you continue to meet the program requirements.
What types of businesses qualify for the D2 Visa?
There are no specific limitations on the type of business that qualifies for the D2 Visa. As long as your business plan demonstrates viability and a potential benefit to the Portuguese economy, it can be considered. Examples include traditional businesses, tech start-ups, freelancing, or digital nomadism.
The key is to show how your business will be financially sustainable, contribute to the economy (through job creation, investment, etc.), and have a positive impact.
Do I need to have a registered business address in Portugal for the D2 Visa?
Yes, having a registered business address in Portugal is a requirement for the D2 Visa. This address will be used for official communication and demonstrates your business has a physical presence in the country.
Do I have to live and work in Portugal full-time with the D2 Visa?
There is no minimum stay requirement, but you need to demonstrate a connection to Portugal
How do I renew my D2 Visa residence permit?
To renew your D2 Visa residence permit, you'll need to submit the required documents to the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) typically within four months before the expiry of your current permit. Documents typically include your passport, residence permit, proof of business activity and investment, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of accommodation.
What are the requirements for applying for permanent residency in Portugal after having the D2 Visa?
After holding a D2 Visa and residence permit for five years, you can apply for permanent residency in Portugal. Generally, you'll need to show:
- Continued possession of a valid D2 Visa and residence permit
- Fulfillment of tax obligations in Portugal
- Maintenance of sufficient financial resources
- No criminal record in Portugal
- Proof of integration into Portuguese society (optional but beneficial)
Does my business need to be successful to get permanent residency?
Business failure doesn't automatically disqualify you, but continued contribution to the economy
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways website and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.
