D2 Visa
What It Is:
The D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa, is a residency visa designed for non-EU/EEA nationals who wish to start or invest in a business in Portugal. This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors who want to contribute to the Portuguese economy by creating jobs, developing innovative ideas, or bringing expertise to the local market.
The D2 Visa allows individuals to live and work in Portugal while running their business or engaging in professional activities. It’s an attractive option for those looking to establish themselves in Portugal, whether by opening a new company, investing in an existing business, or working as a freelancer.
Requirements:
To qualify for the D2 Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Business Plan or Investment Proposal: Applicants must present a detailed business plan outlining their intended business activities, the potential for job creation, and how the business will contribute to the Portuguese economy. Alternatively, for those investing in an existing business, proof of investment is required. The business should ideally target sectors that are in demand in Portugal, such as technology, tourism, renewable energy, or innovation.
- Proof of Means of Subsistence Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any dependents while living in Portugal. This could be through savings, investments, or a reliable stream of income from the business. The required amount varies depending on the nature of the business and the applicant’s family situation.
- Business Registration in Portugal: If the applicant intends to start a new business, they must provide proof of business registration in Portugal with the Portuguese Commercial Registry (Conservatória do Registo Comercial). This includes details such as company name, type of business, and registration number.
- Proof of Accommodation: Applicants must show proof of accommodation in Portugal, whether it is a rental agreement, property ownership, or a letter from a host confirming the applicant’s place of residence.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance, either private or through Portugal’s public healthcare system, is required to cover the applicant and any dependents during their stay in Portugal.
- Criminal Record: A clean criminal record certificate from the applicant’s home country or countries where they have lived for the past five years is required.
- Visa Application Form: Applicants must complete the visa application form and submit it to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in their country of residence, along with all required documents.
- Valid Passport: The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least three to six months beyond the intended stay in Portugal.
Additional Documents:
- Proof of Professional Qualifications: Depending on the nature of the business, applicants may need to submit evidence of their professional qualifications, experience, or expertise.
- Evidence of Business Viability: In addition to the business plan, applicants may need to show evidence that the business has the potential to succeed, such as market research, financial projections, or letters of support from potential clients or investors.
Important Considerations:
- Business Activity Requirements: Applicants must engage in a business activity that has a significant impact on the Portuguese economy. The business should create jobs, promote innovation, or otherwise contribute to local development. Freelancers must also demonstrate how their work benefits the Portuguese market or economy.
- Income and Job Creation: The D2 Visa often requires applicants to show that their business can support themselves and at least one additional employee or generate significant local economic impact. For example, businesses in technology, tourism, and sustainable development are highly encouraged.
- Flexibility for Family Members: Family members of the main applicant, including spouses and dependent children, can join the applicant in Portugal. They will also be entitled to live, work, and study in Portugal during the duration of the D2 Visa.
Conclusion:
The D2 Visa is a great option for entrepreneurs and investors looking to start a business or freelance in Portugal. With its attractive benefits, including residency rights, tax incentives, and access to the European market, the D2 Visa provides an excellent opportunity for those who want to contribute to Portugal’s thriving economy while enjoying a high quality of life in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries.
If you are interested in applying for the D2 Visa and need expert guidance through the process, Best Option Consultancy is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in making your entrepreneurial dreams a reality in Portugal.
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to learn how we can help you achieve your immigration goals in Portugal and take the first step toward a new chapter in your life.
