Freedom of movement
As a permanent resident of Portugal, you are a resident of the European Union, thus you are entitled to freedom of movement in the Schengen area.
Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa Overview
Unlike Portugal's golden visa program, the D2 visa requires minimal investment, making it an appealing option for prospective business owners.
Who Can Apply
Main Applicant Requirements
- 18+ years of age
- Good health
- No criminal record
- Successfully pass due diligence checks
- Confirmed solid business plan
Eligible Dependents
- Spouse of the main applicant
- Children (biological or adopted) under 27 years of age
- Dependent parents over 55 years of age
- Parents and children older than 18 must be dependent on the main applicant
Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa Benefits
Health & Education
Access to Portuguese schools, universities, and world-class healthcare for applicants and families.
Tax Relief
Eligibility to become a non-habitual resident (NHR) and benefit from associated fiscal incentives.
Pathway to citizenship
After 5 years of residency, applicants may qualify for Portuguese citizenship upon meeting minimal requirements.
High ranked passport
The Portuguese passport is ranked in the top 5 passports in the world for ease of travel.
Ease of travel
Citizens of Portugal can travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to over 185 countries and territories including the United States of America, the European Union, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Legal Basis
The Portugal D2 Visa is governed by Portuguese immigration law under Law No. 23/2007, of July 4. Specific provisions appear under Article 60, which outlines residence permit conditions for entrepreneurs, independent professionals, and immigrants with entrepreneurial projects.
Costs of Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa
Applicants must either operate an existing company in Portuguese territory or maintain necessary financial resources to establish one. Though no exact legislative figure exists for "necessary financial resources," approximately €15,000 is recommended. Personal maintenance funds must meet Portugal's minimum wage rate to support applicants and dependents.
Minimum Wage Requirements
Main ApplicantEUR 10,440
Spouse50% of the minimum wage
Dependent Child30% of the minimum wage
Associated Investment Costs
Consular FeesEUR 90
Residence Permit Issuance FeeEUR 160
Health Insurance (approx.)EUR 400
Application Process For Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa
Expected timeframe: 6 months. Initial document collection duration varies based on applicant capability. The review stage follows government schedules and external factors beyond agent control.
01
Eligibility consultation
Initial consultation meeting to verify eligibility for the D2 visa general requirements.
02
Engagement & down payment
Down payment of professional fees and execution of engagement agreement for application assistance.
03
NIF, banking & company setup
Assistance obtaining TIN (NIF) number, opening personal and company bank accounts, incorporating the business, preparing detailed business plan, and transferring capital to accounts.
04
Visa application submission
Visa application submission with VFS, Portuguese Embassy, or Consulate in country of residence.
05
Travel & SEF appointment
Travel to Portugal and appointment scheduling with SEF for residency permits following visa approval. Residency cards issue within 60 days.
06
Residency card & renewal
Initial residency card granted for two years, renewed for three years thereafter. Applicants may pursue permanent residency or citizenship if requirements are met, including Portuguese language test (level A2) and demonstrated community links.
Visa-free Countries for Portugal Residency
Upon achieving permanent Portuguese residency, visa-free circulation applies throughout the Schengen Area. Portuguese citizenship holders enjoy visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to over 186 countries, with Portugal's passport ranking among the world's most powerful travel documents.
