Table of Contents

1. Introduction

• Overview of the D2 Visa Portugal
• Target Audience: Entrepreneurs, Freelancers, and Independent Service Providers

2. Purpose and Contribution

• Objectives of the D2 Visa in Portugal
• Contribution to Portugal’s Economy and Resources

3. Eligibility and Scope

• Eligibility Criteria for D2 Visa Applicants
• Types of Businesses Permissible under the D2 Visa

4. Benefits of the Portugal D2 Visa

• Visa Exemption in the EU and Schengen Area
• Family Reunification and Residency Rights
• Pathway to Permanent Residence and Citizenship

5. Tax Incentives and Non-Habitual Resident Regime

• Overview of Tax Benefits for D2 Visa Holders
• Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Regime and Its Advantages

6. Portugal D2 Visa Eligibility Requirements

• Nominal Business Capitalization
• Personal Upkeep Funds
• Solid Business Plan and Reason for Choosing Portugal
• Health Insurance and Minimum Duration of Residency

7. Application Process for Portugal D2 Visa

• Step-by-Step Guide for Application
• Documentation Requirements and Submission Process

8. Setting Up a Company in Portugal

• Steps to Establish a Business: Trade Register, Legal Representative, Documentation, Bank Account, Permits, and Licences

9. Portugal Tech Visa

• Overview of the Portugal Tech Visa
• Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for International Startups

10. Conclusion

• Summary of Key Points

11.FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Compilation of Frequently Asked Questions and Detailed Answers

What Is the D2 Visa Portugal?

The D2 Visa Portugal is a long-term visa for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers.This startup visa is a viable route for you to immigrate to Portugal to start a business/startup, open a branch of an existing business in the country, or invest in one already existing in Portugal.

The Portuguese government started this visa to expand the country’s resources and investments externally to grow its economy. However, the immigrant entrepreneur visa is limited to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.

This visa serves small and medium-sized business owners with viable business plans. The immigration office weighs your plan’s viability by evaluating its technological, economic, and cultural impact. Once you get to Portugal, you can start any business within the scope, from a restaurant to a technological startup.

Although the D2 Visa isn’t as popular as the other Long Stay Residency visas, it’s a reliable pathway to a Portuguese residency permit and becoming a Portuguese citizen if you wish to work independently in the country.

What Are the Benefits of the Portugal D2 Visa?

There are several benefits of this startup visa, including the following:

1.Visa Exemption In The EU and Schengen Area

As a D2 Visa holder, you can enter and move around Portugal and 26 other EU countries (Schengen) without a visa.

This visa gives you travel rights to all EU member countries. Hence, it’s an ideal route to travel around Europe for business connection purposes.

2.Family Reunification

The D2 Visa has irresistible family perks. You don’t have to leave your family behind. This visa reunifies your family by giving your family members residency rights like yours, including permanent residence and tax benefits.

The eligible family members include:

• Studying dependent children over 18 years
• Children under 18 years
• Spouse
• Minor siblings
• Parents

However, you must prove your relationship to add any family to the program.

3.Permanent Residence

The D2 visa is a pathway to permanent residence. After receiving your D2 Entrepreneur Visa in Portugal, you must also obtain a residency permit.

Therefore, you must book an appointment with Portugal’s Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF).

The D2 Visa’s validity is 3 months. Hence, you must have proof that you have booked the appointment upon the expiry of the visa to continue staying in Portugal as you await the residency permit.

In the D2 Visa program, the initial Portuguese residency permits are renewable after the first year, then after every 2 years up to the fifth year.

After 5 years of stay in the country, you become eligible for a permanent residency application, which is renewable after every 10 years.

5.Citizenship Attainment

The D2 Visa is a reliable pathway to Portuguese Citizenship. You can become a Portuguese citizen if you reside legally for at least 6 years. In such a case, you must:

• Obtain an A2 Portuguese language certificate after learning how to speak Portuguese
• Provide necessary documents such as a Portuguese bank account proof
• Have a clean criminal history

6.Tax Incentives

You can become a non-habitual resident (NHR) as a Portugal D2 Visa holder.

Consequently, you benefit from the incentives associated with this fiscal regime. NHR allows you to transfer your tax residency to Portugal.

You mustn’t have been taxed in the country in the previous 5 years before the application to be eligible for this tax regime. Nonetheless, this condition doesn’t apply to corporate tax.

The fiscal regime tax benefits include the following:

• Eligibility for tax non-payment if you come from a country with a double taxation agreement with Portugal. Hence, you enjoy tax exemption from real estate gains, rental income, pensions, and income from outside Portuguese territory. In such a case, you pay taxes in your country of origin.
• If you’re taxed in Portugal, you’ll be charged a 10% flat rate tax on pension income. That includes insurance retirement savings.
• While ‘high value-added activities’ income is taxed at 20% in Portugal, you’ll be taxed as an ordinary tax resident for other domestic payments under the NHR. This tax benefit covers employment and self-employment earnings from activities in Portugal’s artistic, scientific, and technical performances.
• Your worldwide income taxation will only apply after 10 years of residence in Portugal.
• The fiscal regime allows you to enjoy tax exemption on property capital gains, rents, dividends, and foreign interest.
• Wealth and inheritance are tax-free under the non-habitual resident tax regime.

Advantages of Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa

Corporate Tax and Social Security Tax

The corporate tax (IRC) in Portugal applies to you as a resident but not a registered company.While the Portuguese regular corporate tax is 21%, you’ll pay 17% tax on the first €25,000 taxable profit for small or medium-sized companies.

The corporate tax is even lower in Madeira and Azores at 20% and 16.8%. Respectively.

On the social security tax (TSU), you pay it when paying your employees’ salaries. You pay 23.75% for each employee’s monthly earnings as an employer, while another 11% is directly deducted from the salary.

What Are the Portugal D2 Visa Eligibility Requirements?

You might be eligible for a Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa if you’re a non-EU/EEA/Switzerland freelancer, entrepreneur, or independent service provider looking to live in Portugal.According to the Portuguese government, you must meet several eligibility requirements to obtain a D2 visa. They include the following:

1.Nominal business capitalisation

You must prove that you have an existing company in Portugal and have enough financial resources in Portugal to open a branch or invest in a Portuguese company.

You can provide proof of a loan from one of the country’s banks. Although there isn’t a set official amount, a minimum of €5,000 is recommended.

2.Personal upkeep Funds

The Portuguese authorities require you to prove you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your family in Portugal. Here’s the breakdown:

• You (principal applicant): 100% of the minimum salary (€8,460) annually.
• Your spouse: 50% of the annual minimum wage (€4,230).
• Dependent child: 30% of the minimum yearly salary ((€2,538).
• Therefore, if you’re a couple with one kid, you must have at least €15,228 per year to be eligible for the Portugal D2 visa.
  

3.Solid business plan

Your business idea must be achievable as evidence of your business viability and contribution to the country’s economic growth.

The officer reviewing your plan assesses its impact on Portugal’s economic, social, and cultural status.

To understand the eligibility criteria better, speak to our experienced attorneys today.

4.A substantial reason for choosing Portugal for your business

You must explain in your D2 Visa application why you chose Portugal as your business location.In addition to the favourable weather and cost of living, focus more on how your business will positively impact the country and satisfy the needs of its residents. For instance, you can aim to solve an unaddressed need in Portugal.

5.Comprehensive health insurance

You’re required to purchase health insurance for you and your dependents, usable throughout the EU.

You should pay for such policies for the entire duration of your residency permit. Health insurance prices range between €300 and €1000 per year. The specific amount depends on the business and various personal factors like age.

6.D2 residency minimum duration

You must meet the minimum stay requirement to qualify for your residency permit renewal under the Portugal D2 Visa. Hence, you must remain in Portugal for at least 4 months in the first year and 6 months in the second, third, and fourth years.

How Do I Apply for a Portugal D2 Visa?

You can apply for a Portugal D2 Visa by following the steps below:

Step 1: Create a solid business plan that addresses the needs of Portuguese nationals and the country’s economy. You must have all the necessary documents for your project, including:

• Personal tax number and corporate tax number (NIF)
• Portuguese bank account indicating your capital transfer
• Social contribution receipt for the previous 3 months
• Portuguese company certificate
• Employment contracts
• Proof of accommodation
• Social security number

Step 2: Gather all the supporting documents for the D2 Visa application.

Step 3: Fill out your application form and submit it to the Portuguese Embassy or consulate in your country of origin.

Step 4: After completing your application, you obtain your D2 Visa after about 60 days. However, the process may take longer, depending on your case and home country. The visa’s validity is 120 days.

Step 5: Once you obtain your visa, you can travel to Portugal. Upon your arrival in the country, you must apply for a Foreigners and Borders Service appointment to get a residency permit.

The permit processing can take up to 6 months. If the D2 Entrepreneur Visa Portugal expires before you obtain a residency permit, you can use proof of your appointment booking until you get a ticket.

Step 6: After residing in Portugal for 5 years, you can obtain permanent residency. If you continue staying in the country, you can become a citizen and get a Portuguese passport after 6 years. The process can take up to a year.

What Are the Portugal D2 Visa Fees and Processing Times?

In 2024, securing a Portugal D2 Visa involves demonstrating financial stability, including a minimum deposit in a Portuguese bank and presenting proof of health insurance. Additional expenses may arise from legal and notary fees for document verification. To navigate the process smoothly, consider consulting reputable immigration experts. Fast Global Migration, among the best immigration consultants in Dubai, can provide valuable assistance for obtaining a D2 Visa.

D2 Visa Processing Time

The entire Portugal Entrepreneur Visa application process takes about 6 months on average.If you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll receive the decision on your application 2 months after you submit it.

Nonetheless, the processing time may vary depending on the number of applications and your country of origin.

After obtaining the visa, you book an appointment with the SEF, which may take about 1 month to receive a residency permit.

How Can I Set Up A Company In Portugal?

You can set up a public or private liability company in Portugal by following the steps below:

1.Visit the Portuguese Trade register, confirm your business’s name, and make reservations.

2.Appoint your company’s legal representative in the country.

3.Prepare the Article of Association, including information like the owners’ details and business activities.

4.Open a bank account and deposit the €1.00 minimum share capital.

5.Apply for permits and licenses in line with your company’s activities.

6.Register for social contributions and tax purposes in Portugal.

Who Qualifies for the Portugal Tech Visa?

Under this visa program, international startups and companies registered in and operating in Portugal are allowed to hire employees from other countries to work in Portugal.

The list of certified organizations can be found on the Portuguese immigration website.

The Portugal Tech Visa, like the Startup Visa program, is not open to anyone permanent resident in the European Union region. Highly qualified and skilled workers outside the Schengen area are all eligible for this visa.

To qualify, workers must also have a minimum of level VI educational qualifications in line with the requirements of the ISCED 2011. Alternatively, employees must have a level V educational qualification with at least 5 years of specialized practice or experience.

Fast Global Migration Success Stories for Portugal D2 Visa:

Experience unparalleled success with Fast Global Migration’s Portugal D2 Visa program, boasting a remarkable 100% success rate. Join over 100 individuals who have realized their dreams of entrepreneurship in Portugal through our tailored solutions. Our proven track record exemplifies our commitment to ensuring a seamless and successful Portugal D2 application process. Trust Fast Global Migration to be your gateway to a thriving entrepreneurial journey in Portugal, where success is promised and consistently delivered.

Why Should You Choose Fast Global Migration For Portugal D2 Visa Program?

Choosing Fast Global Migration for your Portugal D2 Program has distinct advantages, ensuring a seamless and successful immigration journey. Here’s why you should consider this service:

1.100% Success Ratio: Fast Global Migration prides itself on maintaining a stellar 100% success ratio for clients participating in the Program. This remarkable achievement underscores the service’s commitment to delivering positive outcomes for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their startups. With a proven track record of success, you can trust Fast Global Migration to navigate the complexities of the Startup Visa process with precision and efficiency.

2.5000+ Clients Stories: The service brings a wealth of experience, backed by over 5000 success stories from clients who have successfully embarked on their ventures in Portugal through the D2 Program. These diverse stories highlight the service’s ability to cater to various entrepreneurial backgrounds and aspirations. The extensive portfolio of success stories is a testament to the service’s effectiveness in supporting entrepreneurs in realising their Portugal business dreams.

3.CICC & MARA Registered: Fast Global Migration is registered with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (CICC) and the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). This dual registration ensures that the service adheres to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in providing migration assistance. Choosing a CICC and MARA registered service instils confidence that your Portugal D2 application will be handled by qualified and accredited professionals, enhancing the likelihood of a smooth and successful immigration process.

FAQs on D2 Portugal Visa

1.What is the D2 Visa Portugal, and who is it designed for?

The D2 Visa Portugal is a long-term visa designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers from non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries.

2.What are the primary purposes of the D2 Visa in Portugal?

The D2 Visa serves as a pathway for individuals to immigrate to Portugal, start a business or startup, open a branch, or invest in an already established company.

3.How does the D2 Visa contribute to Portugal’s economy?

The visa is part of the Portuguese government’s initiative to attract external resources and investments, contributing to the growth of the country’s economy.

4.Who is eligible for the D2 Visa and excluded from applying?

The D2 Visa is available to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, specifically targeting entrepreneurs and business-minded individuals.

5.What types of businesses can be started under the D2 Visa in Portugal?

The D2 Visa allows individuals to start various businesses within the given scope, ranging from restaurants to technological startups.

6.How does the D2 Visa compare to other long-stay residency visas in Portugal?

The D2 Visa offers a reliable pathway to Portuguese residency and Citizenship for those wishing to work independently.

7.What are the benefits of the Portugal D2 Visa regarding travel within the EU and Schengen Area?

D2 Visa holders can travel freely within Portugal and 26 other EU countries (Schengen) without requiring an additional visa.

8.Can family members join D2 Visa holders, and what are the residency rights for family members?

Eligible family members, including spouses, dependent children, minor siblings, and parents, can join D2 Visa holders and obtain residency rights.

9.What is the process for obtaining permanent residence through the D2 Visa?

After five years of stay in Portugal, D2 Visa holders become eligible for permanent residency, with renewals required every ten years.

10.How does one qualify for Portuguese Citizenship under the D2 Visa program?

D2 Visa holders can apply for Portuguese Citizenship after legally residing in the country for at least six years and meeting specific requirements such as language proficiency and a clean criminal history.

11.What tax incentives are available for D2 Visa holders in Portugal?

D2 Visa holders can benefit from the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, providing exemptions and reduced rates on various types of income.

12.What is the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, and how does it benefit D2 Visa holders?

The NHR tax regime allows D2 Visa holders to transfer their tax residency to Portugal and enjoy tax exemptions on various income sources.

13.What are the tax implications for corporate tax (IRC) and social security tax (TSU) for D2 Visa holders?

Corporate tax (IRC) applies to residents, with varying rates for different company sizes. Social Security Tax (TSU) is levied on employee salaries.

14.What are the eligibility requirements for the Portugal D2 Visa, including financial criteria?

Eligibility criteria include nominal business capitalization, personal upkeep funds, a solid business plan, a substantial reason for choosing Portugal for the business, and comprehensive health insurance.

15.How does one demonstrate a viable business plan for D2 Visa approval?

The business plan should address the needs of Portuguese nationals and the country’s economy, providing documentation such as tax numbers, bank statements, employment contracts, and more.

16.What factors contribute to choosing Portugal as a business location under the D2 Visa?

In addition to favourable weather and cost of living, applicants should focus on how their business will positively impact Portugal and meet the needs of its residents.

17.What health insurance requirements are associated with the D2 Visa, and how long must it be maintained?

D2 Visa holders are required to purchase health insurance covering the entire EU for the duration of their residency permit.

18.What are the minimum stay requirements for D2 Visa holders to qualify for residency permit renewals?

D2 Visa holders must remain in Portugal for at least four months in the first year and six months in the second, third, and fourth years to qualify for residency permit renewals.

19.What is the processing time for the D2 Visa application, and how long does it take to obtain a residency permit?

The entire D2 Visa application process takes about six months on average. Visa approval is typically received two months after submission, and the residency permit processing may take up to six months.

 20.Can D2 Visa holders apply for the Portugal Tech Visa, and what are the eligibility criteria for this program?

D2 Visa holders can apply for the Portugal Tech Visa, which is designed for international startups and companies operating in Portugal. Eligibility criteria include highly qualified, skilled workers outside the Schengen area with specified educational qualifications and experience.

In summary, Fast Global Migration stands out as a preferred choice for the Portugal D2 Program, offering a flawless track record with a 100% success ratio, a rich repository of client success stories, and the assurance of being registered with both CICC and MARA. Entrepreneurs can rely on Fast Global Migration to guide them through the Portugal D2 journey, providing expertise and support for successfully establishing their startups in Portugal.