Entrepreneurs looking to establish or acquire a business in Portugal can apply for a D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa Portugal, which offers an array of advantages like a residence permit in Portugal and the liberty to travel across other Schengen countries without requiring a visa.
The Portugal D2 Visa appeals to individuals with ambitions of entrepreneurship who wish to either start a new business in Portugal or expand their current enterprise to the country. Commonly known as the Entrepreneur Visa or the Startup Visa, the Portugal D2 Visa is for individuals who are not citizens of the European Union or the European Economic Area.
What is a Portugal D2 Visa?
The Entrepreneur Visa Portugal is a gateway for entrepreneurs to acquire residency in Portugal. It is issued to those intending to start a new business or purchase an existing business in the country. In contrast to visas such as the Golden Visa or the D7 Passive Income Visa, the Portugal D2 Visa sets itself apart by not necessitating a substantial investment or a steady passive income.
Instead, it emphasizes the importance of business investment and the presence of a viable business concept. This visa offers versatility, catering to a wide range of business types, spanning from cozy cafes to expansive real estate agencies.
A minimum investment requirement does not bind the visa holder, but you must have sufficient funds to establish and run your business and sustain your livelihood in Portugal for a year. The visa is valid for four months, during which the entrepreneur must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit.
The residence permit post-D2 Visa is valid for two years and can subsequently be extended for three years. After five years of residency, applying for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence is possible.
Read our "Starting a Business in Portugal: An Overview" blog post
Types of D2 Visa Portugal
Entrepreneur route
The Portugal D2 Visa encompasses two distinct categories to accommodate different types of entrepreneurs. The first category is the entrepreneur route, which is suitable for individuals who intend to establish a new business or expand an existing business in Portugal.
To qualify for this route, certain essential requirements must be met:
- Obtaining a NIF (Portuguese tax number)
- Opening a business bank account with a Portuguese bank
- Establishing a Portuguese limited company (LDA)
- Employing an accountant well-versed in the Portuguese tax system
Additionally, it is necessary to demonstrate sufficient financial means to initiate and manage the company, which includes fulfilling obligations such as paying annual corporation tax and social security contributions.
Independent service provider route
Here are the key aspects of this alternative:
- Obtaining a NIF
- Opening a bank account in Portugal
- Demonstrating the existence of a self-employment agreement, or promise of a self employment agreement, with a Portuguese-based company.
If the services provided are delivered remotely to clients located outside Portugal, it is worth considering alternative visa options such as the D7 “Passive Income” Visa or the D8 “Digital Nomad Visa”. These options might be more suitable in such cases.
Entrepreneurs may be considered for the Portugal D2 Visa under several conditions, such as:
- The acquisition of a Portuguese company
- Having a pre-existing company abroad
- Intending to open a branch in Portugal or proposing a comprehensive business plan for a new company in Portugal.
The applicant must demonstrate their business’s potential economic and social contributions to Portugal.
Required Documents for Portugal D2 Visa Application
Application for the Portugal D2 Visa requires both business and personal documents.
Required business documents
Business documents include a detailed business plan and, if applicable, company registration documents, contracts, invoices, financial reports, and a bank statement.
Portuguese officials must be convinced that your business or service operations will yield adequate income to sustain your stay in Portugal. This income could originate from a company incorporated in Portugal or from contracts with clients.
Besides a solid business plan, it is necessary to provide “proof of means of subsistence,” typically signifying sufficient savings for at least a year, comparable to the Portuguese minimum wage, to show your ability to pay corporate tax.
Now, let’s further explore the necessary documents for your D2 Visa application in Portugal:
Investment declaration
A declaration indicating that you have invested or intend to invest in Portugal is required, detailing the type, worth, and timeframe of the investment. In assessing your visa application, factors such as the economic, social, scientific, technological, environmental, or cultural value of your investment will be taken into account. Plus, creating job openings in Portugal will significantly enhance your application.
Solid business plan
A meticulously crafted and comprehensive business plan is required, which will be rigorously evaluated based on its social, economic, and cultural implications. This plan must show how your business will prosper, stimulate the Portuguese economy, and aid Portugal’s economic growth by paying corporate tax.
Financial ability
Proof of having the financial capability to support and maintain your company throughout your planned stay in the country is essential, particularly to prove you will be able to pay corporate tax. Demonstrating the financial viability of your business and its capability to prosper during your stay in Portugal is crucial.
Share capital
The share capital is the minimum initial investment needed to ensure the business operates smoothly, even during periods when it may not be turning a profit. In Portugal, small businesses usually have an average share capital of €5,000, a benchmark worth considering when applying.
Company establishment
Evidence of having set up a company within Portuguese jurisdiction, or of having adequate financial resources in Portugal, as well as documents indicating your ability to establish a company in the country, are required.
Service contract
For independent service providers, a written contract or proposal outlining their service provision must be included in their application.
Required personal documents
You may be asked to submit the necessary documents, including an application form, a valid passport, a bank statement demonstrating sufficient funds to live in Portugal, proof of accommodation, a certificate of clean criminal record, valid travel insurance, and two color photographs (3×5 cm).
Personal financial requirements
You need to provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your dependents for a year such as bank statements, separate from your business earnings. The primary applicant should have at least the equivalent of the minimum annual salary, currently set at €9,120.
An additional 50 percent of this sum (€4,560.00) is required for a spouse, and an extra 30 percent (€2,736) is needed for each dependent child. Consequently, a couple with one child should have around €16,416 annually to meet the Portugal D2 Visa’s financial prerequisites.
Criminal background check from former countries of residence
A clear criminal record certificate from every country you have lived in for more than a year is typically required. This document should be no more than three months old when applying. Although many people believe otherwise, having a criminal record does not automatically exclude you from visa eligibility requirements—it depends on the nature and severity of the crime.
Designation of a tax representative
Non-EU citizens are required to appoint a tax representative in Portugal as part of the D2 Visa application process.
Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Proof of secure accommodation in Portugal must be provided. This can take the form of a rental contract, property ownership documents, or a letter of invitation from a friend or relative who is a legal resident of Portugal.
Travel insurance cover for at least six months
You should have at least six months of travel insurance coverage, which covers the initial four-month Portugal D2 Visa and the waiting period for registering as a resident with SEF (the Portuguese immigration authorities). Once you receive your temporary residence permit, you’ll be eligible for Portuguese state healthcare.
Empower yourself with our comprehensive guide, ‘Healthcare in Portugal – A Complete Guide for Expats.’ Packed with critical information, it demystifies the healthcare landscape in Portugal for expats. This indispensable resource is your key to confidently navigating the Portuguese healthcare system. Equip yourself with this knowledge powerhouse by downloading your copy here.
Passport and photographs
To apply for the Portugal D2 Visa, you must have a valid passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond the visa’s expiration date, which is initially valid for four months. Two recent passport-sized color photos are also needed for the application.
NIF and Portuguese bank account
Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (NIF) and opening a personal and business bank account in Portugal are essential steps in the D2 Visa application process.
To apply for a D2 Visa, you need to secure a Tax Identification Number (Número de Identificação Fiscal or NIF) from the Portuguese tax authorities.
Read the Global Citizen Solutions Guide to Buying Property in Portugal
Applying for a Portugal D2 Visa
The process of acquiring a Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa, typically takes about two to three months if you already possess a business plan or a company in Portugal. Following the acquisition of the visa, the applicant can then apply for a residence permit.
To apply for a D2 Visa Portugal, consider the following steps:
- Obtain a Portuguese Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF)
- Open a personal and business bank account in Portugal and deposit funds into it
- Arrange for long-term accommodation in the country by either buying or leasing a property for a suggested minimum of one year, even if the agreement includes a provision for early termination
- File the application online via the E-Visa Portal or VFS. This can be done through the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy in your home country.
The second phase transpires in Portugal with the immigration authorities, SEF. You will be sent an SEF appointment date with your visa. If all available appointment slots exceed your visa’s validity, your legal status in Portugal remains unaffected past the four-month visa term as long as an appointment has been scheduled.
How much does it cost to get a Portugal D2 Visa?
While there’s no predefined amount for business investment, entrepreneurs must demonstrate their financial capability to operate the intended business. In addition to this, proof of adequate funds to sustain yourself in Portugal for a year, equal to at least €10,640, and proof of rented or owned accommodation in Portugal are necessary.
Other costs include government fees, health insurance, and legal services.
Costs of obtaining a Portugal D2 Visa
Business investment | (Undefined) |
Living expenses | €10,64 |
Housing | (Undetermined, dependent upon location and type of property) |
Consular fee | €90 |
Residence permit card fee | €155.50 |
Health insurance | €400 + |
Professional visa and tax advice | (Undetermined) |
Benefits of a Portugal D2 Visa
Acquiring the D2 Visa offers numerous benefits such as residency in a developed and safe European nation, the opportunity to establish a business in Portugal, a residency permit for non-EU/EEA citizens, visa-free travel across the Schengen countries, and the possibility of applying for citizenship and/or permanent residence permit after five years of residency.
Opportunities for entrepreneurs
The D2 Visa authorizes you to set up a business or function as an independent professional in Portugal, opening doors for your entrepreneurial ambitions. Major cities like Lisbon and Porto offer an array of affordable, modern co-working spaces. Furthermore, long-term commercial space rentals in Lisbon can be up to 80 percent cheaper than startup locations in London, reinforcing Portugal’s appeal for startups.
Travel privileges in the Schengen Area
The D2 Visa permits unrestricted entry and movement within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European nations, without the need for another visa. This privilege provides you with the same travel freedoms as European Union citizens, facilitating easy networking and the development of business relations across Europe and the Schengen Area.
Family reunification
The D2 Visa also provides for family reunification in Portugal. This means your family members, including your spouse, children, parents, or dependent siblings, can join you and reside in the country.
Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime
As a holder of the D2 Visa, you become eligible to apply for the Non-Habitual Resident tax benefits of Portugal.
Non-habitual residents must maintain residency for up to 183 days a year in Portugal, or show proof of accommodation (either a rental contract or purchased property) inhabited as if it is their primary residency.
See: NHR Portugal Tax Regime.
Route to permanent residency and citizenship
After five years of legal residency in Portugal, you may be eligible to acquire a permanent residence permit and Portuguese citizenship under the country’s residency program. It’s worth noting that citizenship usually involves passing a basic test in the Portuguese language and culture.
Residential rights and service access
With Portuguese residency, you and your family members gain access to the public healthcare system, and your children can register in the public education system, providing essential services for your family’s well-being.
Portugal D2 Visa vs. the D7 and Golden Visas: What option to choose?
A comparison of the D2 Visa, D7 Visa, Startup Visa and Golden Visa in Portugal
Each visa serves a different purpose depending on an individual’s intentions and capabilities. The choice largely depends on an individual’s financial situation, business ideas, and immigration goals.
For example, the D7 Visa is suitable for those who have a steady passive income source and wish to live in Portugal without necessarily starting a business.
The Startup Visa is ideal for individuals or teams with a disruptive business idea that intends to scale their innovative startup from Portugal. The Golden Visa, on the other hand, requires a substantial investment but provides a swift path to residency, making it appealing to high-net-worth individuals.
The Portugal D2 Visa, D7 Visa, and Golden Visa program all allow for a temporary residence permit of two years which can be renewed.
See: The D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal.
An additional visa is the Portugal HQA Visa, or the Portugal Highly Qualified Visa, which is aimed at attracting workers with high professional qualifications. It is also a two year contract designed for those who already have the promise of a work contract or self-employed contract. For more information, see our Ultimate Guide to the Portugal HQA visa here.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: PORTUGAL GOLDEN VISA - OCTOBER 2023
The Portugal Golden Visa program has recently undergone substantial changes. The new legislation is now in effect, and it's crucial to note that real estate investments are no longer a valid qualifying option within the program.
However, several attractive investment routes still maintain their eligibility for the program. Please refer to our comprehensive guide: Portugal Golden Visa Ultimate Guide.
Take a look at our Portugal Golden Visa Ultimate Guide by local experts
How to get Portugal Citizenship or Permanent Residency After the D2 Visa
Once you’ve resided legally in Portugal for five years on a Portugal D2 Visa, you are eligible to apply for citizenship and permanent residency.
Permanent residence requirements
In order to apply for a permanent residence permit, you will need to fulfill several key criteria:
- Residency requirement: You must have lived in Portugal for at least five years. This period doesn’t have to be continuous, but it should not have any gaps longer than six consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months, within the validity of the residence permit.
- Financial stability: You must provide proof that you have stable and regular resources sufficient to maintain yourself (and any dependents).
- Accommodation: You need to demonstrate that you have a place to live in Portugal. This could be proof of property ownership or a rental agreement.
- Clean criminal record: You must not have been convicted of any crime in Portugal that carries a prison sentence of more than one year.
- Social Security: You need to be registered with the Portuguese Social Security and demonstrate regular contributions over the period of your residence.
- Health Insurance: Although you will have access to the national healthcare service as a legal resident, you must possess valid health insurance until you become a permanent resident.
- Integration into Portuguese society: This could include factors like language proficiency, community involvement, or other evidence of your commitment to living and integrating into Portuguese society.
After gathering the necessary documents that attest to the above conditions, you will need to book an appointment with the Portuguese immigration authorities (SEF) to submit your application.
Portuguese citizenship requirements
One of the crucial requirements to become a Portuguese citizen is to prove proficiency in the Portuguese language.
Portuguese language proficiency
Applicants for Portuguese citizenship must demonstrate a minimum proficiency in the Portuguese language, equivalent to level A2 or higher.
Final Notes and Checklist for Obtaining a Portugal D2 Visa
Before you begin the process of acquiring the Entrepreneur Visa Portugal, ensure you have a viable business idea or an existing company, enough financial resources to sustain your life in Portugal for a year, and proper accommodation. You also need to prepare the required documentation for the visa application and ensure all the details in your business plan are accurate and clear.
Conducting initial due diligence is crucial. This involves researching the Portuguese market, understanding the existing startup ecosystem, and determining the feasibility and scalability of your innovative business venture or idea in Portugal. It’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with Portugal’s culture, laws, regulations, and potential business challenges.
Consider legal immigration advice for a seamless process, and always stay informed about the latest updates in immigration laws and procedures.
Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your Immigration Visa?
GLOBAL APPROACH BY LOCAL EXPERTS
- GCS has offices located across Portugal.
- Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal, and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
- Our expert team can help you throughout your journey to secure your Visa.
100% APPROVAL RATE
- Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to applicants.
- We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.
ALL-ENCOMPASSING SOLUTION
- With a single channel of communication, our approach ensures that you have complete clarity on your application.
- Our BeGlobal® Onboarding System allows for a total flow of information.
TRANSPARENCY AND PRIVACY
- Our pricing is clear and detailed, you will not face any hidden costs.
- All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
Why work with us to get your Portugal D2 Visa?
- Our real estate arm, Goldcrest Real Estate, provides comprehensive assistance in property acquisition, from viewings to negotiations. We have a strong track record in immigration, offering reassurance of our competency.
- We provide hassle-free onboarding services, including pre-arrival bank account setup and NIF acquisition, and our unique BeGlobal Onboarding System® offers real-time visa application updates.
Book a one-on-one consultation with a D2 Visa specialist
Frequently Asked Questions about the D2 Visa Portugal 2023
What is a D2 Visa in Portugal?
The Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa, is designed for non-European Union individuals who intend to invest in Portugal, either by setting up a business, operating as a freelancer, or conducting independent professional activities.
The Portugal D2 Visa aims to attract foreign investment and stimulate the Portuguese economy.
You can set up an already existing business.
The Portugal D2 Visa allows opportunities for family reunification, low-income tax, a temporary residence permit, and the opportunity to acquire a Portuguese passport after five years.
Can family members join under the Startup Visa program?
When you receive a Portugal Startup Visa, one of the key benefits is the possibility of family reunification. This allows your family to join you in Portugal while you establish your business. Your spouse, minor children, or financially dependent parents can apply for their own residency permits. The application for family reunification can be made concurrently with your visa application. However, it’s crucial to note that the approval of their visas is contingent on your visa being granted.
Once in Portugal, your family members are free to live their regular lives, which includes pursuing professional activities. This means that your spouse or adult children can work, study, or start their own businesses.
To apply for family reunification, certain documentation requirements must be fulfilled. These may include proof of family ties, such as marriage or birth certificates, and evidence that you have enough money to support your family members.
Remember, after five years of legal residency in Portugal, you and your family members may also apply for permanent residency. This Startup Visa program is thus an excellent opportunity to visit Portugal, establish a thriving business, and potentially become permanent residents.
How do I get a Startup Visa for Portugal?
You must meet the eligibility criteria to get a Startup Visa for Portugal. This includes intending to develop innovative products or services, creating qualified employment, and the potential for significant business growth.
You’ll then need to gather necessary documents such as a motivation letter, CV, project presentation, valid passport and copy, and proof of financial means. The application is submitted online via the IAPMEI website.
Can a US citizen start a business in Portugal?
Yes, a US citizen can start a business venture in Portugal. They can do so either by moving their existing business or starting a new one. In both cases, they would need to obtain a visa, such as the Startup Visa, specifically catering to entrepreneurs. This would allow them to live and work in Portugal and establish their business.
What are the benefits of a Startup Visa in Portugal?
The benefits of the startup visa in Portugal are numerous. It allows for residency in Portugal with relatively low costs and provides visa-free travel to the Schengen Area. This visa offers opportunities for starting a business venture in Portugal and offers potential tax benefits through Portugal’s Non-Habitual Residency Tax Regime.
Additionally, it provides a pathway to permanent residency and/or citizenship after five years of legal residency.
The country’s thriving startup ecosystem, high English proficiency, and quality of life make it a desirable location for entrepreneurs.
