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The D2 visa is for people who want to set up a company in Portugal, move an existing business there, or work as an independent professional (a consultant, designer or developer with Portuguese clients, for example). For innovative projects, the Startup Visa, with admission to an IAPMEI-approved incubator, is a separate route.
D2 or Startup Visa?
| Feature | D2 | Startup Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | A conventional business or independent profession | An innovative, technology-based project |
| Main requirement | Business plan or investment, or service contracts | Contract with an approved incubator and IAPMEI approval |
| Proof of means | No fixed legal figure; usually about 12 months of the minimum wage (€11,040) | 12× IAS (about €6,446 in 2026) |
| Minimum capital | None; it must fit the plan | None |
D2 documents
- A credible business plan or proof of investment in Portugal (company registration, office lease, contracts)
- For independent professionals: client contracts or proposals and, where required, recognised professional credentials
- Proof of means available in Portugal
- NIF, accommodation, health insurance and a criminal record certificate
Steps
- Assess the idea and write a business plan that meets consular expectations
- Get a NIF, register the company (Lda or Unipessoal) and open a company bank account
- Apply at the embassy or VFS centre
- Enter Portugal, give biometrics at AIMA and register the activity with the tax and social security offices
Professional tips
- Consulates reject generic, copied plans; the target market, costs and hiring plan must be real.
- At renewal, the company's real activity (revenue, tax returns, staff social security) is reviewed.
- D2 holders' families follow the general reunification rules: a spouse without children usually after 2 years. Family reunification
- With larger capital, also consider the "company capital + job creation" option of the golden visa.
Frequently asked questions
How much capital do I need for a D2 visa?
The law sets no fixed minimum; capital must fit the business plan, and proof of means of about 12 months of the Portuguese minimum wage is usually expected.
Can freelancers get a D2?
Yes. If you have clients in Portugal, the D2 as an independent professional fits. If all your clients are outside Portugal, the D8 is usually the better option.
What does the Startup Visa require?
A contract with an IAPMEI-approved incubator, IAPMEI approval of the project and means equal to 12× the IAS index.
Requirements reflect the rules as of October 2026. Review the legal and tax structure with Imperial before registering a company.
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