How to Move to Portugal as an Entrepreneur in 6 Easy Steps

Introduction

Portugal, located in Southwestern Europe, is known for its strong passport, political stability, and entrepreneur-friendly economy. If you’re looking to move to Portugal as an entrepreneur, the D2 visa is your best route.

If you’re an entrepreneur planning to move to Portugal, the D2 Visa is your best route. This visa offers temporary residency and the potential for permanent residency after five years—not just for you but for your family too.

Step 1: Understand the D2 Visa to Move to Portugal

Portugal created the D2 Visa to attract foreign entrepreneurs and investors who want to launch a business and live in the country. After five years of temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency and eventually Portuguese citizenship.

You can either:

 

• • Apply through a visa consultant, like Mirpur Visa Consultant, or

• • Follow the steps and apply on your own.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Before beginning the application process, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• • Valid passport

• • Passport-size photographs

• • Completed D2 visa application form

• • Cover letter explaining your business plan and intent

These are essential. Incomplete documentation will result in automatic rejection.

Step 3: Hire a Visa Attorney

If you’re applying independently, we strongly recommend hiring a Portuguese immigration attorney. They will:

• • Review your documents

• • Apply for your Portuguese tax number (NIF)

• • Assist in acquiring your Social Security Number

• • Submit your application to the nearest Portuguese consulate

Having professional guidance will increases your chances of approval.

Step 4: Visa Approval Process

Once submitted, your D2 visa file will be reviewed by the Portuguese Embassy. You may be called for an interview. The embassy typically takes 2 to 4 months to evaluate your application, so stay in close communication with your attorney and follow their guidance.

Step 5: Open a Bank Account

After your visa is approved:

• • Your attorney will guide you open a Portuguese bank account

• • You’ll receive online access to manage it

• • The process typically takes up to 60 days

• • You are required to transfer a minimum of €5,000 into this account to demonstrate financial stability

After that, you or your attorney will set up your business bank account as well.”

Step 6: Enter Portugal and Secure Residency as an Entrepreneur

Upon arrival in Portugal:

• • You must complete a biometric appointment with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) within the first 60 days

• • After your biometric process,SEF will issue your Temporary Residence Permit after completing biometrics

• • Once you receive this document, you can legally operate your business in Portugal.

Bonus Step: Apply for Family Reunification

Once you have your temporary residence permit, you can apply for your family’s dependent visas. Portugal’s D2 visa policy allows your immediate family members (spouse and children) to join you and live legally in the country.

Conclusion

Portugal offers a smooth and rewarding path for entrepreneurs to move, start a business, and settle with their families. With the D2 visa, you gain access to a business-friendly environment and the possibility of permanent residency.

Whether you want to do it yourself or prefer expert help, Mirpur Visa Consultant is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation or to start your visa process.