What the D2 visa is and who can apply
The D2 visa, often called the entrepreneur visa, allows third-country nationals to settle in Portugal to develop a business project or an independent professional activity. It mainly fits two profiles:
- Entrepreneurs and founders who incorporate or invest in a company in Portugal;
- Independent workers who provide professional services on their own account, under a contract or service proposal.
Unlike the Golden Visa, the D2 has no statutory minimum investment — the viability of the project and the available means are assessed case by case. If you are looking for the passive-investment route, see our Golden Visa.
Setting up a company in Portugal and the role of the NIF
Most D2 applications rest on creating a business structure in Portugal — typically a private limited company or a single-shareholder company (sociedade unipessoal), the latter ideal for the solo entrepreneur. The first practical step is obtaining the Tax Identification Number (NIF), essential to incorporate the company, open a bank account and sign contracts. We cover these steps in detail in our NIF and taxation service.
We handle the whole process remotely and securely: the NIF and fiscal representation can be obtained from abroad through NIF Express, and we structure the company around your plan. For your later move to Portugal — address, contracts and logistics — we support you through Reside Portugal.
Business plan and proof of economic viability
The heart of a D2 application is a solid, credible business plan. The authorities assess the coherence, sustainability and economic impact of the project — intention alone is not enough; viability must be demonstrated.
A robust plan typically includes: a description of the activity and business model; market analysis; realistic financial projections; evidence of funds to invest and operate; and the social, economic, scientific or cultural relevance of the project to Portugal. We draft and review the plan with legal rigour, aligning it with the criteria actually applied in the decision.
Capital, investment and means of subsistence
The D2 does not impose a legally fixed minimum investment. Even so, the applicant must show sufficient financial means to implement the project and to support themselves (and their family, where applicable) in Portugal.
The means-of-subsistence thresholds are updated periodically and must be confirmed case by case at the time of the application. At the initial assessment we present the framework in force and help you structure your proof of funds in a sound, documented way.
Documents, process and application timelines
The application generally starts at the Portuguese consulate covering the applicant's area of residence, with the residence visa; once in Portugal, the residence-permit appointment follows. The typical document set includes passport, business plan, proof of incorporation/intent to incorporate, evidence of financial means, criminal record, health insurance and proof of accommodation.
Timelines vary by consulate and stage, so they are confirmed case by case. We follow every step — from document preparation to scheduling and issuance of the permit — to minimise delays and requests for clarification.
Family reunification, renewal and permanent residency
The D2 visa allows family reunification: spouse or de facto partner, dependent children and dependent parents may be included, under the conditions provided by law. The residence permit is issued with a defined validity and is renewable on maintaining the activity and the requirements.
After the legal residence period and once the requirements are met, the path opens to permanent residency and, later, to Portuguese citizenship. We assess your specific journey and plan each renewal.
Tax regime applicable to the entrepreneur
A D2 holder's taxation depends on the chosen structure (company or independent activity) and on tax residency. In certain cases, qualified professionals may be eligible for IFICI (the Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation, which succeeded the former NHR regime), with its own eligibility conditions.
The actual applicability and benefits depend on the individual situation and must be confirmed case by case. We integrate tax planning into the structuring of your project, so the business decision and the tax decision move in step.