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Portuguese Residence Permit (D2 Visa) for Registration of Sole Proprietorship

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Foreign individuals who own companies or operate as sole proprietors have the opportunity to acquire a Portuguese residence permit, known as the D2 Visa. Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa is a popular program in international business circles as it enables non-resident entrepreneurs to secure residence permits for themselves and their families. 

Predictably, the D2 Visa grants its holder the freedom to travel within the Schengen area. In addition, it provides the path to citizenship and residing in Portugal for an extended period. Individuals holding this visa can also benefit from various tax incentives, including those provided under the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status. 

Portuguese Residence Permit (D2 Visa) for Registration of Sole Proprietorship

Portuguese D2 Entrepreneur Visa Explained

The D2 (Entrepreneur) Visa is tailored to accommodate company owners and sole proprietors seeking residency in Portugal. Initially valid for two years, this visa can be extended for another three years. Upon fulfilling the residency requirements, individuals may apply for permanent residency in Portugal and eventually pursue European citizenship. Eligibility for the D2 Visa extends to founders of new companies, foreign investors who have acquired existing businesses, sole proprietors, as well as individuals establishing subsidiaries of foreign companies in Portugal. Additionally, the program covers relatives, spouses, and dependents under the family reunification program. 

In contrast to the Investor’s Golden Visa and D7 Visa, the D2 Visa imposes minimal financial prerequisites and investment commitments. However, applicants must still exhibit adequate funds to sustain themselves and their business endeavors for a minimum of one year.

Foreigners Residence Permit in Portugal: Key Benefits

Porto, Portugal Skyline

Here are some key advantages of the D2 Visa in Portugal:

  • Residence in a safe and developed European country with freedom to travel within the EU;
  • Business opportunities in Portugal with favorable tax incentives in Azores or Madeira;
  • Potential to acquire European citizenship after five years of residency;
  • Family reunification rights, allowing dependent relatives to obtain residence permits;
  • Access to the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, offering tax benefits for ten years;
  • Access to state healthcare, education, and the European market.

In Madeira, the International Business Center offers favorable tax treatment for foreign entrepreneurs and companies. Our experts can assist with quick and efficient company registration in Madeira remotely.

Requirements for an Entrepreneur

Getting a Portuguese residence permit for entrepreneurs involves several important steps:

  1. Getting confirmation of accommodation (owned or rented);
  2. Company registration, albeit purchasing a ready-made business, or opening a subsidiary in Portugal;
  3. Retrieving proof of income from business activities;
  4. Submitting proof of available subsistence funds for the applicant and their dependents who will also be receiving resident permits;
  5. Preparing and submitting the application accompanied by the relevant documents.

Documents Required for Sole Proprietors and Company Owners

Applicants for a Portuguese D2 Visa must submit certain personal and business information. Foreign citizens must translate all documents into Portuguese or English, notarize them, and get the translations apostilled (legalized).

Documents for businesses and sole proprietors include:

  • Detailed business plan for the newly-created company or sole proprietorship with comprehensive reports;
  • Investment declaration stating the amount invested in the Portuguese business infrastructure and the additional planned investment;
  • Confirmation of available funds for business activities in Portugal during the intended stay (minimum one year);
  • Share capital documentation, typically around EUR 500 for small businesses in Portugal;
  • Business registration documents including contracts, invoices, financial reports, and bank statements;
  • Details on the planned number of employees and created job positions.

Personal Documents Required for the Applicants

When applying for a Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa (D2 Visa), applicants must submit various personal documents, including:

  • Personal financial statements for the main applicant and dependents:
    • EUR 9,120 for the company founder or sole proprietor
    • Additional 50% for the spouse: EUR 4,560
    • 30% for each child and other dependents: EUR 2,376
  • Certificate of criminal record (issued within the past six months from the applicant’s country of residence);
  • Appointment of a tax representative in Portugal (for non-EU citizens). 
  • Proof of residence in Portugal which can be established through:
    • Real estate purchase;
    • Long-term rental agreement (minimum one year);
    • Invitation letter from a resident friend or relative;
  • Medical insurance (covering at least six months), suitable for the initial D2 Visa application and while awaiting SEF’s response. 
  • Scanned copy of a foreign passport with an open tourist Schengen visa (expiring no later than six months after the primary visa’s expiration). 
  • Two passport-sized colour photos. 
  • Taxpayer’s identification number (NIF), which our experts will obtain for the applicant. 
  • Certificate of registration with the Social Insurance Fund of Portugal, provided by partners. 
  • Bank account in Portugal, opened by our specialists.

Applying with Expert Support

Submitting an application for a D2 Visa in Portugal with the help of our team offers the following advantages:

  • Free initial consultation covering various details like service options, location in Portugal, number of applicants, business type, and banking arrangements;
  • Flexible payment methods, including bank transfers, cryptocurrencies, and digital banking;
  • Comprehensive support in document preparation, legalization, translation, and notarization;
  • Share capital documentation, typically around EUR 500 for small businesses in Portugal;
  • Assistance in renting or purchasing real estate based on client preferences;
  • Facilitation of registering a sole proprietorship, Limited Liability Company, or Joint-Stock Company;
  • Handling the application and acquiring the Portuguese residence permit from immigration authorities (SEF).

Visa Fee

Here are the typical expenses associated with obtaining a residence permit for company founders and sole proprietors in Portugal in 2023:

  • Business investment: Starting from EUR 5,000, varying based on business type (sole proprietorship, company, subsidiary, ready-made business).
  • Living expenses: From EUR 10,640, complying with requirements.
  • Accommodation: Cost varies based on location and ownership/rental type.
  • Additional expenses (notary, apostille, document translation, etc.): Starting from EUR 1,000.
  • Consular fee: EUR 90.
  • Residence card payment: EUR 155.5.
  • Medical insurance: From EUR 400.
  • Opening a bank account: From EUR 4,000.

For a hassle-free and expedited process in obtaining a Portuguese residence permit, trust the expertise of our professional agents and experienced advisors.

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