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Portugal D2 Startup & Entrepreneur Visa Overview (2026)
The Portugal D2 Startup/Entrepreneur Visa is tailored for non-EU entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners seeking to launch or relocate their company within Portugal’s dynamic startup ecosystem.
This visa provides an accessible pathway to European residency for business founders and innovators, enabling them to tap into Portugal’s rapidly growing tech scene, benefit from a supportive policy environment, and establish a long-term presence in Europe.
Application Process
Advantages for Employers
Advantages for Employees
Costs
Benefits of the D2 Visa
- Access to European Residency: Provides a pathway to temporary residence initially, with options to renew and eventually apply for long-term residence.
- Business-Friendly Environment: Portugal offers supportive policies for startups, incubators, and access to funding programs.
- Family Inclusion: Visa holders can bring dependents, including spouses and children, under the same permit.
- Mobility within the EU: While based in Portugal, founders benefit from freedom of movement across Schengen countries for business and personal travel.
Who Is Eligible for the D2 Visa?
Eligible applicants for the Portugal D2 Startup/Entrepreneur Visa are non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who can demonstrate the capacity to launch, manage, or invest in a business in Portugal. Key eligibility criteria include:
- A viable business plan that contributes to the Portuguese economy or innovation ecosystem.
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support the business and personal living expenses.
- Evidence of professional qualifications, relevant experience, or entrepreneurial track record.
- Adequate accommodation in Portugal and compliance with health insurance requirements.
Meeting these criteria ensures that applicants are well-positioned to obtain the D2 visa, benefit from Portugal’s startup-friendly environment, and establish a long-term presence in Europe.
The Portugal D2 Startup/Entrepreneur Visa offers global founders access to a dynamic European startup ecosystem—with flexible business requirements, a straightforward application process, and strong advantages for both employers and employees. By enabling long-term residency and a pathway to EU citizenship, Portugal is positioned as one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs seeking scalable growth and European market access. With competitive costs, generous benefits, and clear renewal paths, the D2 visa is a strategic choice for international business establishment.
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The Portugal D2 visa is a residence permit for non-EU entrepreneurs who want to start or expand a business in Portugal's growing startup ecosystem. It enables permanent residency and access to the European market.
Entrepreneurs, business owners opening a branch in Portugal, self-employed professionals, freelancers offering relevant services, and digital nomads can apply if they meet financial and business plan requirements.
Applicants must submit a viable business plan demonstrating economic benefit, show proof of sufficient financial means (around €10,400 per year), and have comprehensive health insurance to reside in Portugal.
The D2 visa is primarily for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals. It is not a direct employee sponsorship visa, but it applies if your employee is starting or running a business in Portugal.
The processing time for Portugal's D2 visa typically takes around 60 to 90 days depending on the consulate and completeness of documentation.
The business plan is crucial, detailing market analysis, job creation, financial projections, and local economic benefits, often reviewed by chambers of commerce or incubators.
There is no minimum investment amount set, but applicants must prove financial capacity and the business's sustainability to benefit the Portuguese economy.
The D2 visa attracts global entrepreneurs and innovators who bring investment, create jobs, and integrate with Portugal’s expanding ecosystem of incubators and funding programs.
Employees with D2 visa status can live and work legally in Portugal, enjoy healthcare benefits, and potentially apply for permanent residency and EU citizenship.
Portuguese proficiency is not strictly required, but business plans and documentation are typically submitted in Portuguese or translated, and familiarity can aid integration.
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