Portuguese D2 Residence Visa for Independent Work / Entrepreneurs

Who it's for

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to be self-employed in Portugal, provide independent professional services, or open and run a company there.

Requirements

• Business plan and/or contracts for the services you will provide
• Evidence of a company incorporated in Portugal, or a declaration of intent to incorporate, where applicable
• Proof of financial means to establish and sustain the activity
• Professional qualifications / registration with a Portuguese professional body if the activity is regulated
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
• Portuguese tax number (NIF)
• Clean criminal record certificate and valid passport

What you can do

• Operate as a freelancer or run a business in Portugal
• Convert the visa into a renewable residence permit via AIMA
• Include family members via family reunification
• Build time toward permanent residence and citizenship

How to apply

Prepare your business plan / service contracts and set up the Portuguese groundwork (NIF, and often a Portuguese bank account and/or company). Apply for the D2 residence visa at the consulate or VFS centre for your area.

After entering Portugal on the visa, attend the AIMA appointment to obtain the residence permit.

Documents

• National visa application form and passport with photos
• Business plan and/or service/client contracts
• Proof of funds and, where relevant, company registration
• Proof of accommodation
• Criminal record certificate
• Health/travel insurance
• Professional qualification proof for regulated activities