If you are planning to start a business in Portugal or establish a company there, you may apply for Portugal’s D2 Visa. entrepreneurs can obtain a residence permit through the D2 Visa, granting them the right to live in Portugal and travel visa-free to other Schengen countries.
Although the process is relatively straightforward, you may have to wait up to three months or more to receive your D2 Visa.
To qualify for this type of visa, you must meet certain requirements. For instance, while you are expected to establish a business in any sector in Portugal, you do not need approval from Portuguese business incubators. Once all procedures are completed, you can reside in Portugal under the D2 Visa.
What is Portugal’s D2 Visa?
In short, Portugal’s D2 Visa is a residence visa designed for entrepreneurs and foreign nationals.
If you see yourself as an entrepreneur and aspire to establish an independent business in Portugal, you can apply for the D2 Visa. Additionally, you may qualify if you have been contracted as a service provider by a company or another service provider in Portugal.
The D2 Visa differs from Portugal’s Golden Visa. While both are residency-by-investment programs offered by the Portuguese government, they cater to different types of investors and have distinct requirements. However, both programs aim to attract foreign capital to Portugal’s economy in exchange for residency and, potentially, Portuguese citizenship.
The D2 Visa allows you to reside in Portugal for two years, after which you can renew it for another three years. After maintaining residency for five years, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Additionally, your family can join you in Portugal under the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, obtaining residence permits for family reunification purposes. To maintain the validity of your residency, you and your family must stay in Portugal for at least six months each year.
Read also about the portugal D7 visa
What is the Minimum Residency Requirement for the D2 Visa?
To be eligible for a residency permit renewal under the D2 Visa, you must meet the minimum residency requirements.
In the first year, you must reside in Portugal for at least four months.
In the second, third, and fourth years, you must stay for at least six months each year.
Who is Eligible for Portugal’s D2 Visa?
The primary requirement for the D2 Visa is that you must be an entrepreneur or a foreign national from outside the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, intending to establish an independent professional activity in Portugal. Eligible applicants include:
Entrepreneurs
Freelancers
Startups
Investors
Business owners
Shareholders
Business partners
Executives and managing partners
What are the Benefits of Portugal’s D2 Visa?
Key benefits of the D2 Visa include:
The right to live in Portugal
The ability to establish a business in Portugal
Permission to work in Portugal as an independent professional
Free movement within the Schengen Area
Travel rights similar to those of EU citizens
What are the Family Benefits of the D2 Visa?
The D2 Visa is a fast and efficient option for obtaining residency in the European Union.
It offers several advantages, including family reunification and visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone. Additionally, it can serve as a cost-effective pathway to acquiring EU citizenship, provided you meet the necessary requirements.
What are the Requirements for Portugal’s D2 Visa?
If you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or independent service provider from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and wish to reside in Portugal, you may be eligible for the D2 Entrepreneur Visa.
The Portuguese government has specific requirements for obtaining a D2 Visa. The five key criteria are:
Company’s Share Capital
You must demonstrate the existence of an established company in Portugal or sufficient financial resources to open a branch or invest in a Portuguese company. Additionally, providing proof of a loan from a Portuguese bank may be required. While no specific amount is mandated, maintaining a substantial bank balance is advisable.Personal Finances
You must prove that you have adequate financial resources to support yourself and your family in Portugal if applicable.Strong Business Plan
Your business idea must be viable and capable of contributing to Portugal’s economic growth. Your application will be reviewed based on its potential economic, social, and cultural impact on the country.Reason for Choosing Portugal
Your application should explain why Portugal is the ideal location for your business. It is recommended to emphasize how your business will benefit the country rather than simply citing good weather or low living costs.Comprehensive Health Insurance
You must purchase health insurance for yourself and any accompanying family members, ensuring coverage across the European Union. The policy should cover your entire residency period, typically costing between €300 and €1,000 per year.
If you meet these requirements and are interested in obtaining a D2 Visa for Portugal, you can fill out the application form on this page or contact us directly via WhatsApp. A member of our advisory team will reach out to you as soon as possible.
By Amjad khaddam
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