Portuguese Republic · entrepreneur
D2 visa (entrepreneur / self-employment)
Residence visa for business owners, founders, and self-employed workers establishing activity in Portugal.
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Overview
The D2 visa covers foreign nationals wishing to establish a company in Portugal, invest in an existing Portuguese business, or work as a self-employed service provider. Applicants need a credible business plan, capital to support the activity, and evidence of qualifications where relevant.
Government fees
Visa around €90; residence permit around €170.
Typical duration
Same 2+3 year residence permit pattern; leads to permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Business plan or self-employment activity evidenced.
Capital or means to support the activity.
Professional qualifications where relevant to the activity.
Accommodation in Portugal.
Common blockers
Business plan judged non-viable.
Capital insufficient for scale of planned activity.
Typical evidence
Business plan.
Capital evidence / bank statements.
Portuguese company incorporation or service contracts.
Application pathway
Step 1
Incorporate Portuguese company or prepare service contracts
Set up the business legally before or in parallel with the visa application.
Step 2
Obtain NIF and open corporate bank account
Capital deposit supporting the business plan.
Step 3
Apply at consulate
Submit visa with business plan, capital evidence, and accommodation.
Step 4
AIMA appointment and residence card
Attend after arrival; receive 2-year residence card.
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Frequently asked questions
How much capital do I need for the D2 visa?
There is no single statutory threshold. The amount required is whatever the consulate assesses as proportionate to the business plan. Smaller service businesses have historically succeeded with €30,000–50,000 in deposited capital; capital-intensive plans need substantially more.
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