What is Portugal’s D2 Visa?
The Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa, is a residency program designed for non-EU nationals who wish to establish or invest in a business in Portugal. This visa provides an opportunity for business owners, freelancers, and startup founders to relocate and operate legally within the country. Governed by Article 60 of Law No. 23/2007, the D2 Visa aims to attract international talent and boost Portugal’s economy.
To qualify, applicants must submit a detailed business plan demonstrating the economic, social, or cultural impact of their venture in Portugal. Additionally, they must have sufficient financial resources to sustain their business and living expenses. Successful applicants receive a two-year residence permit, allowing them to reside, work, and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
After five years of legal residence, D2 Visa holders may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, gaining access to EU benefits and global opportunities.
Key Benefits of the Portugal D2 Visa
1️⃣ Residency Through Entrepreneurship
The Portugal D2 Visa allows business owners and entrepreneurs to establish a company in Portugal and gain residency. Unlike investment-based programs, the D2 Visa focuses on economic contribution through business creation rather than large financial investments.
2️⃣ Visa-Free Travel Within the Schengen Area
D2 Visa holders obtain Portuguese residency, which enables them to travel visa-free across the 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, providing business mobility and personal travel flexibility.
3️⃣ Right to Work and Expand Business in Europe
The D2 Visa grants full work rights in Portugal, allowing entrepreneurs to operate their businesses and expand into the broader European market. Additionally, holders can employ staff and benefit from Portugal’s business-friendly environment.
4️⃣ Access to Portugal’s Banking, Healthcare, and Education System
D2 Visa holders and their families can access Portugal’s public healthcare and education systems. They can also open bank accounts, register their business legally, and benefit from financial incentives for startups.
5️⃣ Family Reunification & Citizenship Pathway
Successful applicants can bring their family members, including spouses, children, and dependent parents, through Portugal’s family reunification policy. After five years, they become eligible for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, gaining access to one of the world’s most powerful passports.
Portugal D2 Visa Eligibility Criteria
The Portugal D2 Visa is open to entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who meet the following requirements:
Main Applicant:
✅ At least 18 years old
✅ Clean criminal record
✅ Non-EU citizen
✅ Viable business plan with economic relevance to Portugal
✅ Proof of sufficient financial resources to sustain business and living expenses
✅ Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Spouse & Dependents:
✅ Clean criminal record
✅ Legally married or in a recognized partnership with the main applicant
✅ Children under 18 or financially dependent adult children (up to 21 years old)
✅ Dependent parents can be included in the application
Business Investment and Financial Requirements
To qualify for the Portugal D2 Visa, applicants must establish or invest in a Portuguese business. While there is no minimum investment threshold, the business should contribute positively to Portugal’s economy.
✔ Minimum Recommended Investment: €50,000+ (varies by business type)
✔ Business Registration: Must establish a legal entity in Portugal
✔ Bank Account & NIF (Portuguese Tax ID): Required for financial transactions
✔ Business Plan: Should outline economic viability, job creation potential, and industry relevance
✔ Proof of Funds: Demonstrate financial capacity to sustain the business and living expenses
Portugal D2 Visa Costs
The total cost of obtaining a Portugal D2 Visa depends on business setup fees, accommodation expenses, and application fees.
| Expense Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Business Registration Fees | Varies |
| Capital Investment | €50,000+ (recommended) |
| Visa Application Fee | €90 per applicant |
| Residence Permit Processing Fee | €83 per applicant |
| Residence Card Issuance Fee | €72 per applicant |
| Health Insurance | From €14 per month per family member |
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Portugal D2 Visa
1️⃣ Business Plan Submission & Pre-Assessment
📅 Processing Time: 1-2 weeks
Applicants submit a business plan detailing their venture’s economic impact and potential job creation in Portugal.
2️⃣ Obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) & Bank Account
📅 Processing Time: 1-2 weeks
Applicants must obtain a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and open a business bank account.
3️⃣ Business Registration in Portugal
📅 Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Register the business with Portuguese authorities and obtain legal permits for operation.
4️⃣ Apply for the D2 Visa at the Portuguese Consulate
📅 Processing Time: 2-4 months
Submit all required documents, including proof of business registration, financial resources, and accommodation.
5️⃣ Travel to Portugal on a D2 Visa & Apply for Residence Permit
📅 Processing Time: 1 month
Once the D2 Visa is approved, applicants must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit at the immigration office.
6️⃣ Receive Residence Permit Card
📅 Processing Time: 2+ weeks
Upon approval, applicants receive a residence permit valid for two years, renewable for three additional years before applying for permanent residency or citizenship.
Comparison between Portugal D2 Visa and Portugal Startup Visa
| Feature | Portugal D2 Visa | Portugal Startup Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers aiming to establish or expand a business in Portugal. | Tailored for non-EU/EEA/Swiss entrepreneurs intending to launch innovative and scalable startups in Portugal, often in tech or high-growth sectors. |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Viable business plan – Proof of sufficient financial means to support living expenses in Portugal – Establishment of a company in Portugal or investment in an existing Portuguese business | – Approval from a certified Portuguese incubator – Presentation of an innovative business idea with growth potential – Proof of financial self-sufficiency – Clean criminal record |
| Investment Requirement | No specific minimum investment; applicants must demonstrate adequate funds to support both the business and personal living expenses. | No fixed investment amount; however, the startup must show potential for innovation, scalability, and the capacity to create jobs. |
| Business Type | Open to various business types, including traditional sectors like retail, services, and manufacturing. | Focuses on innovative sectors, particularly technology and high-growth industries, requiring endorsement from a recognized incubator. |
| Residency Requirements | Must reside in Portugal for at least 183 days per year to maintain residency status. | Must reside in Portugal for at least 183 days per year to maintain residency status. |
| Family Reunification | Allows for family reunification, enabling immediate family members to obtain residency permits. | Permits family reunification, allowing immediate family members to join the primary applicant in Portugal. |
| Path to Citizenship | Eligible to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship after five years of continuous residence. | Eligible to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship after five years of continuous residence. |
| Ideal For | Entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand traditional businesses in Portugal. | Entrepreneurs with innovative startup ideas looking to leverage Portugal’s startup ecosystem and support structures. |
Note: Both visa types require a commitment to residing in Portugal and offer pathways to permanent residency and citizenship. It’s essential to assess which visa aligns best with your business objectives and personal circumstances.
How Pelican Migration Consultants Simplifies Your D2 Visa Process
Navigating the Portugal D2 Visa process can be complex, but with Pelican Migration Consultants, you receive expert assistance at every stage:
✅ Eligibility Assessment: We assess your business and personal profile to ensure a strong application.
✅ Business Plan Preparation: Our team helps draft a compelling business plan tailored to Portuguese regulations.
✅ Effortless Application Submission: We professionally handle your visa application for timely approval.
✅ Legal & Financial Guidance: Assistance with business registration, tax compliance, and proof of funds.
✅ Post-Visa Support: Helping you integrate smoothly into Portugal’s business and social environment.
Start Your Portugal Journey with Pelican Migration Consultants
Moving to Portugal through the D2 Visa is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners seeking European residency. Let Pelican Migration Consultants guide you through every step and make your dream of doing business in Portugal a reality.
Contact us now for a free consultation!