European residency for non-EU entrepreneurs. No minimum investment, no capital lock-up, just a viable business and a plan.
Portugal - D2 Entrepreneur Visa
The Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa allows non-EU entrepreneurs, business owners, and independent professionals to live legally in Portugal while starting, expanding, or operating a business within the European Union. Unlike investment visas that require significant capital, the D2 focuses on the viability and economic contribution of your business plan. There is no minimum investment threshold.
The visa is initially valid for four months, during which you enter Portugal and apply for a two-year residence permit, renewable for a further three years. After five years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residency, and after six years for Portuguese citizenship.
It is worth noting that Portuguese legislation is currently under review, with proposals to extend the citizenship residency requirement from six to ten years. These changes are not yet law and remain subject to presidential review, but for those considering Portugal as a long-term base, acting now means securing your timeline under the current rules.
Eligibility, Benefits, Timelines and Costs
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Eligibility
Non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals only
A clear intention to start a new business, expand an existing business, or operate as an independent professional in Portugal
A detailed business plan demonstrating economic viability, innovation, or job creation potential aligned with Portugal's economic interests
Sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your business: no official minimum is set, but demonstrating funds of approximately €5,000 to €10,000 in a Portuguese bank account is commonly expected
Proof of accommodation in Portugal, either owned property or a rental agreement
Valid health insurance covering Portugal for the full duration of stay
Clean criminal record from your home country and any country of residence in the past year
Physical presence requirement: you must spend at least six consecutive months or eight non-consecutive months in Portugal per year to maintain your residency
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Benefits
No minimum investment required: no capital lock-up, no Golden Visa, no asset threshold
Start, expand, or operate a business in Portugal with full access to the European Union market
Live and work legally in Portugal as a business owner, entrepreneur, or independent professional
Spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents can be included through family reunification
Pathway to permanent residency after five years of legal residence
Portuguese citizenship after six years, providing full EU mobility, an EU passport, and visa-free access to over 180 countries
Potential eligibility for Portugal's NHR 2.0 tax regime, offering favourable tax treatment for new residents for up to ten years
Act now: proposed legislation could extend the citizenship residency requirement from six to ten years. Applications submitted under current rules lock in today's timeline
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Timelines & Costs
Processing time: approximately 12 to 18 weeks from application submission, depending on consulate appointment availability and processing times
Full setup support from €8,000, covering the initial visa application and residence permit, including business plan guidance, legal documentation, translations, lawyer's fees, coordination with authorities, consulate preparation, and AIMA residence permit application
Ongoing renewal support is available and quoted separately based on your individual requirements
Strategic guidance on permanent residency and citizenship pathways is available throughout your residency
Applications for permanent residency or citizenship are not included and are quoted separately should you choose to proceed
Final fees may vary depending on the number of applicants, jurisdiction, and complexity of the individual case
The Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa is one of the most flexible and accessible pathways to EU residency for non-EU business owners and independent professionals. With proposed changes to Portugal's citizenship timeline currently under review, now is the right time to act. Robert and Martin will review your business profile, confirm your eligibility, and walk you through every step of the process, with no obligation and no pressure.
