Startup Visa
The visa for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners moving to Portugal. No minimum investment required — just a viable plan and our lawyers to back you every step of the way.
Visa Type
D2 Entrepreneur
Min. Investment
€920/month income
Who can apply
Non-EU / EEA
Packages from
€1,595
Portugal's Startup Visa = the D2 Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa
Portugal does not have a separate "Startup Visa" product — the D2 Visa is the official route for all entrepreneurs, freelancers, startup founders, and independent professionals. Our full D2 Visa page has the complete income requirements, business plan guidance, and pricing.
Who This Visa Is For
The D2 works for three types of founder
Whether you're launching a tech startup, going freelance, or relocating an existing business to Portugal — the D2 covers all of these paths.
Tech & Startup Founders
Building a scalable business? Portugal's NHR 2.0 tax regime and startup ecosystem make it one of Europe's best bases for founders. We support your visa application and business registration.
Freelancers & Consultants
Working independently and billing clients internationally? The D2 is the right route. You'll need to register a company (Lda) or as a sole trader (ENI) — we handle both.
Relocating Business Owners
Moving an existing business to Portugal? We advise on the best structure — whether that's registering a branch, a new Lda, or transferring your existing company.
Core Requirements
What the D2 Visa requires
The D2 is flexible but evidence-heavy. Here's what AIMA looks for in a successful application.
Business Plan
A professional business plan demonstrating viability, market knowledge, and your ability to sustain yourself in Portugal. We advise on what consulates expect.
Income / Funds Proof
Minimum €920/month subsistence requirement (2026). Proof of business revenue, savings, or investment capital — calculated per family member.
Business Registration or LOI
Either a registered Portuguese Lda or a letter of intent / partnership agreement demonstrating genuine business activity in Portugal.
Valid Passport
Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay. All family members included in the application must have valid travel documents.
Proof of Accommodation
Rental contract, deed of purchase, or letter from a host confirming you have a place to live in Portugal.
Clean Criminal Record
Criminal record certificate from your country of residence and any country where you've lived for more than 1 year in the past 5 years.
Pricing
Choose the right level of support
No hidden fees. No surprises. Every package includes your NIF and bank account setup.
Complete Visa Package (Entrepreneur)
€1595
For entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Portugal
- Determine the most suitable visa for you
- NIF & Bank account assistance included
- Document checking and guidance before submission
- Unlimited email support for all your inquiries
- Video consultations with immigration lawyer
- Access to a live interpreter for your visa interviews
Business Incorporation
€1495
For entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Portugal
- Company registration (LDA and other forms)
- Drafting articles of association and shareholder setup
- Registration with tax and social security authorities
- Integration with visa and residency applications
- Includes NIF number and Bank Account applications
- (Typical timeline: 10–20 business days)
Client Stories
Real people. Real results.
FAQ
Questions about our Startup Visa
What exactly is the D2 visa?
The D2 — officially the "Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa" — is a long-stay visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to establish or invest in a Portuguese business. It covers sole traders, freelancers with international clients, entrepreneurs launching startups, and existing business owners expanding operations. Unlike the Golden Visa, it requires no minimum investment — just a viable business plan.
Do I need to start a company in Portugal, or can I be a freelancer?
Both routes are valid. Freelancers with established international client bases can apply without incorporating a company, though you'll need to demonstrate an ongoing income-generating relationship with clients. Entrepreneurs and business owners typically incorporate a Portuguese company (Lda.) as part of their D2 process — this strengthens the application and gives you a legal trading entity in Portugal.
How important is the business plan? What do they look for?
The business plan is the centrepiece of your D2 application — it's what sets it apart from every other visa type. Portuguese authorities want to see economic viability, market research, realistic financial projections, job creation potential, and your relevant experience and expertise. A weak or generic business plan is the most common reason D2 applications are rejected. We help you build one that meets consulate standards.
How much money do I need in the bank?
You need to show subsistence funds covering one year of living costs in Portugal: €11,040 for a single applicant, or more if you're bringing family. These must be held in a Portuguese bank account at the time of application. This is separate from any business capital — it's purely to demonstrate you can support yourself while establishing your business.
Can I apply for the D2 from my home country without visiting Portugal first?
Yes. The initial application is submitted at your Portuguese consulate in your home country — there's no need to be in Portugal first. We handle everything remotely: NIF, bank account, document preparation, and consulate coordination. Once your visa is approved, you enter Portugal and we assist with your AIMA residency appointment, which is done in person.
How long does the D2 process take?
Roughly 4–6 months in total. NIF setup: approximately 7 business days. Bank account: 4–6 weeks. Business plan preparation: 2–4 weeks (depending on complexity). Consulate processing: 8–16 weeks after submission. Once in Portugal, we aim to schedule an AIMA appointment within 4 months, though timelines depend on your consulate and current backlogs.
Can I bring my family on the D2?
Yes. As the main D2 applicant, you can apply for family reunification for your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents. Each family member receives their own Portuguese residency card. The second adult applicant receives a 50% discount on our package fee; children receive a 70% discount. Additional subsistence funds are required for each family member added.
Are you actual immigration lawyers, or just agents?
We're qualified Portuguese immigration lawyers — not agents or referral middlemen. When you work with Visas.pt, your case is handled by someone with legal training and professional accountability. That matters particularly for the D2, where business plan quality and consulate representation can genuinely make the difference between approval and rejection.
Ready to Start?
Ready to build your business in Portugal?
Book a free 15-minute call. We'll assess your D2 eligibility and tell you exactly what your business plan needs — no commitment required.
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