Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa
Expert Guide to Starting Your UK Business Journey
The D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa or Business Visa, provides a pathway for non-EU citizens to establish or invest in businesses in Portugal.
This visa stands out for its flexibility, as it doesn’t require a minimum investment threshold.
Instead, it focuses on the potential impact of your business venture on Portugal’s economy through job creation and economic growth.
What is the Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa?
The D2 Visa enables holders to create a new business in Portugal, open a branch of an existing operation, or invest in an existing Portuguese business.
It has played a vital role in attracting overseas investment and creating job opportunities in Portugal.
The visa is initially valid for four months, after which holders must convert it to a Resident Permit valid for 12 months
Key Features of the Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa
- Create new businesses in Portugal
- Open branches of existing companies
- Invest in established Portuguese businesses
- No specific minimum investment threshold
- Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship
- Valid for an initial 4 months with residence permit conversion
Eligibility Requirements
The Portuguese government has established clear criteria for D2 Visa applicants to ensure they can contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy.
These requirements focus on both personal qualifications and business potential.
Your application must demonstrate that your business will have a positive impact on the local economy.
Personal Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older
- Clean criminal record
- Valid residence address in Portugal
- Travel and medical insurance from a recognized provider
- Evidence of sufficient funds for 12 months in Portugal
Business Requirements
- Comprehensive business plan showing viability
- Proof of investing in existing business (if applicable)
- Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF)
- Portuguese bank account
- Business registration documentation
- Evidence of financial capacity
Required Documentation
When applying for the D2 Visa, proper documentation forms the foundation of a successful application. A comprehensive set of paperwork must be submitted to support your business aims and demonstrate your plans to run a successful enterprise in Portugal.
Every document must be either in English or Portuguese or accompanied by certified translations.
Business Documentation
Detailed business plan showing:
-
- Business concept
- Economic viability
- Portugal market contribution
- Cultural impact assessment
- Job creation potential
- Funding sources
- Operational strategy
Investment Proof
- Contract letter or memorandum of sale (for existing business investment)
- Bank statements showing capital
- Company registration documents
- Tax identification documents
- Business bank account details
Personal Documentation
- Completed application form
- Valid passport (3 months beyond stay)
- Two recent color passport photos
- Bank statements showing personal funds
- Accommodation proof in Portugal
- Health insurance certificate
- Criminal record certificate
- Visa fee payment proof
Financial Requirements
Starting a new life in Portugal through the D2 visa requires careful financial planning and proof of adequate resources. Entrepreneurs must demonstrate they can support themselves and their business ventures for at least 12 months after arrival.
Additionally, the cost of life in Portugal, including housing, utilities, and daily expenses, must be factored into the financial calculations when planning your emigration.
Personal Funds:
- Main applicant: €19,680 (double minimum annual salary)
- Spouse/Adult dependent: +€9,840 (50%)
- Child under 18: +€5,904 (30%)
Example for Family of Four:
Family Member |
Required Amount |
|---|---|
|
Main Applicant |
€19,680 |
|
Spouse |
€9,840 |
|
Two Children |
€11,808 |
|
Total Required |
€41,328 |
Application Process
The journey of emigration to Portugal through the D2 visa follows a structured process that typically takes between 60-90 days.
This entrepreneurial pathway requires careful preparation and attention to detail, with each step building upon the previous one to ensure a smooth transition to Portuguese residency.
Pre-Application
- Obtain Portuguese NIF
- Open a Portuguese bank account
- Transfer required funds
- Secure long-term housing
STEP 1
Documentation
- Gather all required documents
- Prepare business plan
- Obtain a criminal record certificate
- Secure health insurance
STEP 2
Submission
- Apply through E-Visa Portal
- Submit documents to the Portuguese Embassy
- Pay €90 processing fee
- Attend interview if required
STEP 3
Post-Approval
- Enter Portugal within 4 months
- Apply for a residence permit at SEF
- Complete biometric registration
- Receive temporary residence permit
STEP 4
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Visa Validity and Renewal
Understanding the timeline and renewal requirements of the D2 visa is crucial for long-term planning in Portugal.
The initial visa opens a pathway to longer-term residency, with specific stay requirements that must be met to maintain valid status.
Each renewal period brings entrepreneurs closer to the possibility of permanent residency.
Initial Period
- D2 Visa: 4 months
- First residence permit: 2 years
- Renewal period: 3 years
Stay Requirements
- First year: Minimum 4 months
- Subsequent years: 6 months per year
Benefits of the D2 Visa
The D2 visa opens doors to numerous advantages for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in Portugal.
Beyond the immediate business opportunities, this visa provides access to various social, economic, and lifestyle benefits that make it an attractive option for international business owners and their families.
D2 Visa vs Other Portuguese Visas
Feature |
D2 Visa |
D7 Visa |
Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Primary Purpose |
Business/ Entrepreneurship |
Passive Income |
Investment |
|
Investment Required |
No minimum |
Passive income proof |
€280,000+ |
|
Processing Time |
2-3 months |
2-3 months |
6-8 months |
|
Stay Requirement |
4 months first year |
183 days/year |
7 days first year |
|
Family Reunification |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Path to Citizenship |
5 years |
5 years |
5 years |
Path to Permanent Residency
The D2 visa serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency in Portugal, offering a clear pathway for entrepreneurs who wish to make Portugal their permanent home.
After maintaining your residence permit and business operations for five years, you become eligible for permanent resident status, which brings additional rights and security.
This transition represents a significant milestone in establishing long-term roots in Portugal.
Years Experience
Business Plan Requirements
Essential Components:
- Business description
- Market analysis
- Financial projections
- Investment timeline
- Employment creation
- Economic impact
- Cultural contribution
- Operational strategy
Costs Breakdown
Understanding the financial investment required for the D2 visa is essential for proper planning.
While the visa itself has modest government fees, entrepreneurs should budget for various additional expenses related to business setup, legal services, and living costs.
These costs vary depending on business type, location, and family size
Government Fees
- Visa application: €90
- Residence permit: €155.50
Additional Costs
- Health insurance: From €400/year
- Bank account minimum: Varies
- Business registration: Varies
- Legal services: Variable
- Translation services: As needed
Family Reunification
The D2 visa program strongly supports family unity, allowing entrepreneurs to bring their immediate family members to Portugal.
This aspect of the visa makes it particularly attractive for business owners who wish to relocate with their families, providing opportunities for spouses and children to fully integrate into Portuguese society.
Eligible Family Members
- Spouse/partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adult children
- Dependent parents
- Siblings (under certain conditions)
Requirements for Family
- Additional financial proof
- Health insurance
- Accommodation evidence
- Clean criminal records
- Relationship documentation
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Frequently Asked Questions
The D2 visa is for entrepreneurs and business owners, while the D7 visa is designed for individuals with stable passive income such as pensions, rentals, or investments.
The initial D2 visa is valid for 4 months, after which you must convert it to a residence permit valid for 2 years, renewable for 3 years.
No specific minimum investment is required, but you must prove sufficient funds to operate your business and maintain yourself in Portugal for at least 12 months.
Yes, you can bring your spouse, children under 18, and dependent family members through family reunification once you obtain your residence permit.
No, Portuguese language skills are not required for the initial visa, but an A2 level is required if you later apply for citizenship.
The main applicant must show €19,680 (double the minimum annual salary), with additional amounts for family members: 50% for spouse and 30% for each child.
Yes, you can choose any location in Portugal, but you must have proof of accommodation through either rental or property ownership.
The processing time is typically up to 60 days once all required documents are submitted correctly.
Yes, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Yes, comprehensive health insurance valid in Portugal is mandatory for both the main applicant and any family members.
Any legitimate business sector qualifies, including technology, tourism, catering, health, or research, as long as it contributes to Portugal's economy.
Yes, but your primary activity must remain related to your business venture in Portugal.
After the initial 2-year period, you can renew for 3 years, and then apply for permanent residency after 5 years total.
You must stay in Portugal for at least 4 months in the first year and 6 months in subsequent years.
Yes, a comprehensive business plan demonstrating your business's viability and potential contribution to Portugal's economy is essential.
Yes, after 5 years of residence plus 1 year as a permanent resident, you can apply for citizenship if you meet all requirements.
Business failure doesn't automatically invalidate your visa, but you must continue meeting residence permit requirements and may need to present new business plans.
Yes, you can either purchase an existing business or invest in shares of a Portuguese company.
Yes, you must open both personal and business bank accounts in Portugal before applying for the visa.
You may qualify for tax benefits under the new Tax Incentive for Scientific, Research, and Innovation scheme, with a potential 20% flat tax rate on Portuguese income.