Aug 19 • Legal & Practical Tips
Key Difference: Golden Visa vs. D2 Visa
Golden Visa
Purpose: Attract large investors into Portugal.
Minimum investment required (2024 rules):
€500,000+ in funds, companies, or R&D.
Or creation of 10 jobs (8 in rural/low-density areas).
Cost barrier: Out of reach for most small entrepreneurs or freelancers.
Who it suits: Wealthy investors, real estate buyers (though property path is now restricted).
D2 Visa (Entrepreneur / Independent Professional Visa)
Purpose: Attract small and medium entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent workers.
Investment requirement: No fixed minimum. Instead:
Show you have a viable business plan.
Deposit sufficient funds in a Portuguese bank account to support yourself and the business (often €5,000–€10,000+ is enough, depending on activity).
Legal structures accepted:
Sole Trader (ENI) – e.g. a freelancer registering in Portugal.
LDA (Limited Company) – if you want liability protection and credibility.
Who it suits: Freelancers, digital nomads, entrepreneurs wanting to set up a business in Portugal without needing €500k+.
Immigration Benefits of D2
- Residence permit initially valid for 2 years, renewable.
- Can lead to permanent residence and citizenship after 5 years.
- Family reunification possible.
- Access to Schengen area.
Tax incentives possible (NHR – Non Habitual Resident regime, though reforms apply after 2024).
Steps to Apply for a D2 Visa
1. Prepare a Business Plan (showing feasibility and benefit to Portugal).
2. Open a Portuguese bank account and deposit initial funds (€5k–€10k recommended).
3. Get a NIF (tax number).
4. Register your business (as Sole Trader or LDA).
5. Gather documents:
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
- Proof of funds.
- Business registration papers.
- Business plan.
- Clean criminal record.
- Valid health insurance.
6. Apply at Portuguese Consulate in your country of residence.
7. On approval, enter Portugal and schedule SEF appointment (immigration office) for residence permit.
Cost Comparison (Realistic Minimum)
Path Investment Requirement Legal Setup Residency Outcome
Golden Visa €500,000+ Usually LDA or fund Residence + family, but only for high net worth
D2 Visa (ENI) €5,000–€10,000 (bank deposit + basic setup) Sole Trader (low cost) Residence after approval
D2 Visa (LDA) €6,000–€12,000 (bank deposit + LDA setup + accountant) Limited Company Residence after approval
In short:
Golden Visa = investment-based (for wealthy investors).
D2 Visa = entrepreneurship-based (for small businesses and freelancers).
For low cost immigration into Portugal, the D2 Visa is the realistic choice.
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Key Difference: Golden Visa vs. D2 Visa
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