The D2 Visa is the gateway for anyone wishing to start a business or become self-employed in Portugal. Whether to open a company, practise a liberal profession or work as a freelancer, this is the most suitable route for the vast majority of cases.
Who the D2 Visa is for
The D2 is intended for nationals of third countries who wish to:
- Set up a company — opening a business headquartered in Portugal;
- Carry out an independent professional activity — consultancy, law, design, architecture, engineering and other liberal professions.
It should not be confused with the digital nomad visa, which is intended for those who work remotely for foreign entities. The D2 presupposes effective economic activity linked to the Portuguese market.
What you need to demonstrate
The D2 Visa application is submitted to the competent Portuguese consulate in the country of residence and generally requires:
- Business plan or project — a credible document describing the activity, the market, the expected clients and the economic viability;
- Financial means — proof that you have sufficient capital to start the activity and support your household for at least one year, using the Portuguese national minimum wage as the basis for calculation;
- Experience in the field — a curriculum vitae or documentation demonstrating qualifications suited to the type of business proposed;
- Accommodation — a tenancy agreement or proof of a property you own in Portugal.
The process: visa first, residence afterwards
The D2 works in two stages. First, you obtain the residence visa at the consulate, which allows you to enter Portugal for the correct purpose. After entry, there is a deadline to apply for the residence permit with AIMA, where requirements such as social security registration and the effective start of the activity are verified.
Regulated professions
For professions that require registration with a professional body (doctors, lawyers, engineers, architects, among others), you will need to present proof of qualifications and begin the recognition process with the relevant body.
Renewal and permanent residence
The D2 residence permit is initially granted for two years, renewable for equal periods. After five years of legal residence and compliance with the general requirements, it is possible to apply for permanent residence and, subsequently, Portuguese citizenship.
The importance of the business plan
The business plan is, in practice, the most decisive element. Consulates assess the consistency between the applicant’s profile and the proposed project. A generic plan, or one disconnected from the candidate’s experience, is the main cause of refusal. Investing in its quality is investing in the success of the application.
This publication is for general informational purposes. For analysis of a specific case, we recommend specialised legal advice.