What is the D2 Visa?
The D2 Visa is the ideal solution for those wishing to start or expand their professional activity in Portugal as a self‑employed worker.
In this article, we explain the requirements, the application procedure and the advantages associated with this residence permit, offering detailed information for anyone looking to establish their professional activity in Portugal.
What are the advantages of the D2 Visa?
The D2 Residence Visa is intended for individuals who wish to carry out their professional activity as self‑employed workers in Portugal and reside in the country for more than one year.
The residence visa is valid for 4 months and allows two entries into Portugal. During this period, the visa holder must move to Portugal and attend an appointment at AIMA to provide biometric data for the issuance of the residence card.
This visa also allows the simultaneous submission of accompanying visas for immediate family members, enabling the entire family to immigrate together, provided that family ties are proven during the application.
What are the requirements to obtain the D2 Visa in Portugal?
To submit a D2 residence visa as a self‑employed professional, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Have a partnership agreement or a written service provision contract within a liberal profession, or open a professional activity with the Portuguese tax authority;
- When applicable, hold a certificate from the competent authority proving that the applicant is authorised to practise the activity in Portugal;
- Demonstrate sufficient means of subsistence to reside in Portugal.
What is the procedure and timeline?
The D2 visa process consists of two phases:
1st Phase: Consulate – Issuance of the residence visa
The applicant must submit the request at the Portuguese Consulate or Consular Section of the Portuguese Embassy in their country of origin or country where they have resided for more than one year, either by email or through the E‑visa portal (depending on the consulate).
In some countries, due to high demand, the Consulate may delegate responsibilities to VFS Global, which collects applications before forwarding them to the Consulate for analysis.
Once submitted, the Consulate has 60 days to issue the residence visa.
After the visa is issued, the applicant must travel to Portugal to request the residence permit.
2nd Phase: AIMA – Issuance of the Residence Permit
In most cases, the residence visa already indicates the date and location of the AIMA appointment.
When this does not occur, the applicant must request an appointment by phone, email or via the appropriate form.
Once all documents have been submitted, AIMA has 90 days to issue the residence card.
What documents are required to apply for the D2 Visa in Portugal?
The D2 Visa involves two stages of document preparation:
1st Stage: Consulate
When submitting the residence visa request, the applicant must provide, among others:
- Partnership contract, written service provision agreement, or proof of activity registration with the tax authority;
- Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF);
- Proof of means of subsistence;
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
Fee: €110
2nd Stage: AIMA
At the appointment, the applicant must provide biometric data – photograph, fingerprints, signature – and submit:
- Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF);
- Proof of Social Security Registration Number (NISS);
- Proof of accommodation;
- Proof of registration as a self‑employed worker with the Tax Authority;
- Proof of means of subsistence.
Fee: €177.08
What is the validity of the Residence Card?
The residence permit is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance and may be renewed for 3 additional years. After 5 years, the applicant may request a permanent residence permit.
What are the main benefits of the D2 Residence Visa?
- Family reunification;
- Access to a qualified and affordable healthcare system;
- Access to justice and courts;
- Free movement within the Schengen Area.
Thinking about moving to Portugal?
The D2 Visa offers an excellent opportunity for self‑employed professionals seeking to make Portugal their new home and workplace. From the possibility of family reunification to access to healthcare and the justice system, this visa supports a smooth transition and provides a stable foundation for professional growth.
If you are considering this option, explore the requirements and procedures described above and begin your application process with confidence. Contact us to get started.