Established under Law No. 23/2007 – Lei de Estrangeiros and administered by the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA), Portugal’s D2 Visa offers a clear path for entrepreneurs, independent professionals, and small business founders to build their business presence in Portugal and access the wider EU market.
Unlike investment-heavy programs, the D2 focuses on viable business ideas rather than large capital injections. Whether you’re registering a Portuguese limited company via the Empresa Online portal, working as a freelancer, or relocating your existing enterprise, the D2 Visa opens the door to Portugal’s stable economy, favorable tax policies, and free movement across the Schengen Area.
The opportunity is significant, but the process is far from simple. Applicants must demonstrate proof of financial means (currently €10,440 for the first year, plus increments for dependents), present a robust business plan aligned with Portuguese economic priorities, and meet consulate-specific documentation requirements that can vary widely.
Navigating this complexity without specialized guidance can be risky. A law firm experienced with the D2 Visa process can anticipate bureaucratic hurdles, tailor your application to your local consulate’s requirements, and set you up for long-term success.
Summary
- Entrepreneur-focused pathway: for founders, freelancers, and small business owners building active ventures in Portugal.
- Strong legal foundation: Governed by Law No. 23/2007 and administered by AIMA.
- Proof of means: Minimum €10,440 for the first year, plus 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child.
- No fixed minimum investment: The emphasis is on a viable, well-supported business plan.
- EU access & business benefits: Residency allows Schengen mobility and the ability to register a company via Empresa Online.
- Variable consulate rules: Requirements differ; check your local Portuguese consulate or VFS checklist.
While the D2 Visa’s legal framework appears straightforward, the reality on the ground often differs. Official requirements published on government portals don’t always match what individual consulates demand; in some locations, additional financial documents, longer accommodation leases, or notarized translations are required.
Understanding both the law and the practice is critical. In the next section, we’ll break down these differences so you can prepare a stronger application and avoid costly surprises.
Top Choices Upfront
Zoark is a boutique, U.S.-focused law firm providing personalized immigration, relocation, and cross-border legal services. All cases are managed in-house by licensed immigration lawyers, with integrated tax planning and tailored documentation strategies to streamline your move.
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Movingto is a full-service legal and relocation partner for individuals and families relocating to Portugal. With physical offices, in-house immigration lawyers, and proprietary tools like the Funds Hub and Moving Hub, they manage every stage—from NIF registration and bank account setup to relocation support and citizenship processes.
Request Free ConsultationD2 Visa at a Glance: Law vs Practice
The D2 Entrepreneur Visa is aimed at entrepreneurs, freelancers, small business owners, and startup founders looking to establish an active business in Portugal without using the Startup Visa route.
On paper, the requirements seem straightforward: proof of sufficient funds, a viable business plan, accommodation, a clean criminal record, and valid health insurance.
In practice, consulate-specific rules and interpretations often raise the bar, making it important to understand how expectations can differ across jurisdictions.
Core Requirements
- Proof of financial means: Around €10,440 for the first year, plus increments for dependents.
- Viable business plan: Aligned with Portugal’s economic, social, cultural, or scientific priorities.
- Accommodation proof: Lease, property deed, or hosted accommodation declaration.
- Clean criminal record: From countries lived in for more than one year.
- Health insurance: Valid for Portuguese territory.
Side-by-Side Comparison
While the official criteria provide a baseline, the real application process is often shaped by local consular practices.
Two applicants with identical profiles may face completely different document requests, timelines, and even interpretations of “viable” depending on where they apply.
Understanding both perspectives, legal and practical, is key to preparing a strong, delay-proof submission.
Why a Law Firm Is Essential for D2 Applicants
Even the most prepared entrepreneurs can run into unexpected roadblocks during the D2 visa process.
While the legal framework outlines what’s required, how you meet those requirements and the quality of your presentation can make the difference between a smooth approval and months of costly delays.
Common pitfalls without professional guidance
- Rejected business plans due to insufficient detail or lack of market data.
- Delays in company incorporation, causing missed application deadlines.
- Consulate checklist mismatches, leading to rejections or requests for additional documents.
- Missed opportunities for tax optimization, especially under Portugal’s NHR regime.
With vs Without a Law Firm
Choosing the right legal partner isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about anticipating problems before they surface.
From navigating consular quirks to ensuring your business plan meets both official and unwritten expectations, a skilled D2 visa lawyer can save you months of delays, protect your investment, and position your venture for long-term success in Portugal.
How to Choose the Right Portugal D2 Law Firm
Finding the right legal partner can make the difference between a smooth D2 visa approval and months of frustrating delays. In our 2025 analysis, we reviewed dozens of firms using official AIMA and MNE resources.
We examined updated consulate checklists, and compared independent review scores from Google, Trustpilot, and expat forums.
In that research, eight key criteria emerged as the most important when evaluating a D2 law firm:
How We Apply These Criteria
To compare firms consistently, we scored them on a weighted rubric:
These weights reflect what applicants value most, from in-depth knowledge of the D2 pathway to clear, predictable costs and ongoing support.
#1 Zoark
Zoark is a boutique U.S.-focused immigration law firm that excels in guiding foreign entrepreneurs through Portugal’s D2 Visa process with precision and foresight.
All cases are handled in-house by licensed immigration lawyers who understand the intricacies of immigrant entrepreneur visa applications, from comprehensive business plan drafting to submitting residence permit applications.
Beyond meeting visa requirements, Zoark helps clients structure their move to Portugal in a way that maximizes tax efficiency, ensures ongoing compliance, and anticipates potential hurdles with the immigration authorities.
Their approach is ideal for applicants who value personalized service, strategic planning, and an emphasis on long-term legal residency outcomes, whether that leads to permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
Key Features
By combining legal expertise with strategic foresight, Zoark ensures D2 Visa applicants don’t just meet the immigration authorities’ checklist but position themselves for long-term success in Portugal.
Case Study
A U.S.-based marketing consultant wanted to expand her foreign business into Portugal. Zoark created a detailed business plan highlighting opportunities in the Portuguese market.
They managed the company’s incorporation with the commercial registry and worked directly with the embassy to handle a consulate-specific request for extra bank statements.
The result? The plan received approval in less than 90 days and the relocation proceeded smoothly, including the processing of a family reunification visa for her spouse.
#2 Movingto
Movingto is a full-service legal and relocation partner for individuals and families who want more than just legal assistance for their Portugal D2 Visa, they want a stress-free transition into their new life.
With physical offices in Portugal, Movingto's team of in-house immigration lawyers, and proprietary tools like the Funds Hub and Moving Hub, we manage every aspect of the move.
From NIF registration and Portuguese bank account setup to post-landing support such as tax structuring and residence permit renewals, we act as a one-stop solution.
Our approach is especially valuable for foreign national legally resident abroad who need help aligning their well-structured business plan with the Portuguese government’s priorities, while also ensuring financial stability and long-term success.
Key Features
Our all-in-one relocation model eliminates the complexity of coordinating between multiple service providers.
From the first consultation to residence permit renewal, we will manage every milestone with precision, keeping you, the client informed and on track, even after the move is complete.
Case Study
An Australian tech entrepreneur sought legal residency in Portugal through the D2 Visa while launching a startup company.
We at Movingto prepared a well-structured business plan aligned with the Portuguese government’s innovation priorities, opened a business bank account, registered for a taxpayer identification number in Portugal, and arranged valid travel insurance.
Once in Portugal, we also assisted with tax compliance setup and guided the entrepreneur through the permanent residency application process, securing approval for both the applicant and his dependent family members.
#3 First Legal Portugal
First Legal Portugal is a full-service immigration and corporate law firm known for its transparent approach and tailored support for entrepreneurs, self-employed professionals, and SMEs.
They provide both immigration and corporate services in-house, enabling clients to handle visa applications, company setup, and ongoing accounting under one roof.
Their team is experienced in guiding applicants through the D2 process with efficiency, particularly for those looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising service quality.
With offices in Lisbon and Porto, they serve a multilingual clientele across several key markets.
Key Features
- In-house accounting and tax compliance services to help maintain your residence permit in good standing.
- Pre-application audits to ensure all required documents, from bank statements to a criminal record certificate, meet immigration authorities’ standards.
- Dedicated Portuguese embassy liaison for faster appointment scheduling and residence permit application follow-up.
- Transparent flat-fee pricing for the Portugal D2 Visa, ideal for foreign entrepreneurs launching an own business.
- Offices in Lisbon and Porto; services in English, Portuguese, Russian, Ukrainian.
Review Score & Recency: Limited recent independent reviews available on major platforms; reputation based primarily on website-stated services and industry presence.
#4 Oliveira Lawyers
Oliveira Lawyers is a Brazilian-founded legal firm with a strong presence in Portugal, specializing in immigration services for U.S. citizens and other international clients.
They have extensive experience with U.S. consulate-specific procedures, including FBI background checks and document legalization, making them a go-to choice for Americans relocating to Portugal.
Their team provides tailored legal solutions that cover immigration, tax, and corporate law, with a particular focus on ensuring smooth communication and transparent timelines. With offices in Lisbon and a client base across multiple continents, they combine local expertise with an international service mindset.
Key Features
- Expertise in criminal record certificate processing and apostille for foreign nationals legally resident in the U.S. or Brazil.
- Strong track record in family reunification visa applications linked to the Portugal D2 Visa.
- Assistance with Portuguese tax authority registration and opening a Portuguese bank account.
- Guidance on financial stability requirements and meeting sufficient financial resources thresholds.
- Office in Lisbon; services in English and Portuguese.
Review Score & Recency: 4.5/5 on Trustpilot and Trustindex.io (over 500 combined five-star reviews, mostly from June–Aug 2025).
#5 Abreu Advogados
Abreu Advogados is one of Portugal’s largest and most established law firms, offering comprehensive legal solutions with offices in Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal (Madeira).
Their multidisciplinary expertise spans corporate, tax, real estate, litigation, immigration, and more — all supported by strategic partnerships across Portuguese-speaking regions like Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and Timor‑Leste.
Clients benefit from a structured and highly professional service model, backed by an ISO 9001–certified quality system and B Corp recognition for excellence and sustainability.
Key Features:
- Business plan guidance through corporate and immigration teams
- Company incorporation assistance
- NIF and banking support
- Cross-disciplinary capabilities in corporate, tax, real estate, and immigration law
- Offices in Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal; services in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish
Review Score & Recency: The firm is renowned for its excellence in international rankings and legal directories, such as Legal 500 and IFLR 1000. Detailed consumer reviews are scarce, but its reputation is supported by decades of top-tier service and institutional recognition
#6 ERG Legal
ERG Legal is a boutique immigration law firm that provides tailored legal solutions for individuals and businesses considering multiple residency or visa options for Portugal.
Known for their strategic approach, they advise clients on the D2 visa alongside alternative pathways such as the D7, Golden Visa, and other niche residence categories. This broader perspective allows applicants to choose the most suitable route based on their personal, business, and financial circumstances.
With a focus on compliance and long-term planning, ERG Legal offers hands-on support throughout every stage of the relocation process.
Key Features
- Comparative strategy for Portugal D2 Visa, passive income visa, and Portugal Golden Visa pathways.
- Tailored proposed business plan drafting to meet cultural relevance and financial viability standards.
- Advises on taxpayer identification number setup with the Portuguese tax authority for foreign entrepreneurs.
- Specializes in temporary residence permit planning for company operating transitions and expansions.
- Office in Lisbon; services in English and Portuguese.
Review Score & Recency: Limited public review data; reputation built primarily on niche visa expertise and professional network recognition.
#7 Lexidy
Lexidy is a modern, international legal consultancy known for streamlining complex immigration processes with a tech-forward approach.
Their end-to-end service model covers every stage of relocation, from initial eligibility checks to company incorporation and post-arrival support. Clients benefit from fixed-fee proposals, multilingual lawyers, and a clearly structured process designed to minimize delays.
While they serve a broad range of clients, Lexidy is particularly appealing to entrepreneurs and professionals who value digital communication tools, predictable costs, and comprehensive support under one roof.
Key Features
- Digital onboarding for residence visa clients, with secure document uploads for detailed business plan review.
- Guides foreign entrepreneurs through Portuguese commercial registry processes and business bank account setup.
- Fixed-fee legal assistance covering everything from valid passport checks to valid travel insurance compliance.
- Support for family reunification and permanent residence strategy alongside the Portugal D2 Visa.
- Offices in Lisbon and Porto; services in English, Portuguese, Spanish, French.
Review Score & Recency: 4.8/5 average rating based on over 1,200 client reviews on-site, with mixed but mostly positive independent feedback.
#8 Global Citizen Solutions
Global Citizen Solutions (GCS) is a multidisciplinary migration consultancy offering high-touch relocation services for individuals and families moving to Portugal.
Beyond visa applications, they integrate legal services with real estate guidance, tax planning, and long-term residency strategies.
Their tiered service packages cater to clients seeking a hands-off experience, with dedicated advisors managing each step of the process.
Known for their professionalism and responsiveness, GCS is particularly well-suited to applicants who want a single point of contact for all aspects of their move.
Key Features
- Integrated legal assistance and relocation, including residence permit application and family members’ processing.
- Works with the embassy and immigration authorities to handle required documents efficiently.
- Helps structure existing business relocation or incorporation into the Portuguese economy.
- Offers strategic tax compliance planning for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship eligibility.
- Office in Lisbon; services in English and Portuguese.
Review Score & Recency: 4.4/5 on Trustpilot (~70% five-star reviews).
#9 Feod Group
Founded in 1992, Feod Group specializes in corporate, investor, and high-net-worth relocation to Portugal. Their services combine immigration law with business advice, helping clients select the optimal legal structure for their venture.
With experience in both company formation and cross-border tax considerations, Feod Group is well-positioned for entrepreneurs planning more complex corporate setups.
Their team offers personalized guidance through each step of the process, from initial consultation to settlement, with a strong emphasis on long-term planning and compliance.
Key Features
- Expert in company operating structures for foreign entrepreneurs and existing foreign business expansion into Portugal.
- Facilitates business connections and introductions to raise external resources for growth.
- Advises on ongoing compliance with Portuguese tax authority and portuguese state healthcare registration.
- Corporate advisory for permanent residence planning and legal residency maintenance.
- Offices in Portugal (and internationally); services in English and Portuguese.
Review Score & Recency: Limited independent public reviews; reputation supported by decades in corporate immigration and advisory work.
#10 Almeida & Associados
Almeida & Associados is a Lisbon-based law firm offering combined expertise in immigration and tax law, making it a strong choice for applicants who want a seamless approach to both residency and fiscal compliance.
Their team assists with every stage of the relocation process, from preparing the visa application and establishing a company to advising on Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime. The firm’s integrated service model ensures that legal and tax considerations are addressed together, reducing the risk of costly oversights.
Key Features
- Integrated NHR tax compliance and residence permit support for foreign national legally resident applicants.
- Assistance with professional qualifications recognition for self employed persons.
- Drafting a well-structured business plan that meets Portuguese government’s financial viability criteria.
- Legal representation for family reunification cases and permanent residency transition.
- Office in Lisbon; services in English and Portuguese.
Review Score & Recency: Limited recent independent reviews; reputation supported by long-standing practice and expertise in both immigration and tax law.
Common D2 Visa Challenges: And How Top Firms Solve Them
Even the most prepared D2 visa applicants can face unexpected setbacks. From business plans that fail to convince consulates to banking or accommodation hurdles, small oversights can lead to big delays.
Addressing these challenges quickly and effectively often makes the difference between a frustrating experience and a smooth approval.
The best firms anticipate these issues long before they become roadblocks, using established networks, tested processes, and in-house expertise to keep applications moving forward without costly delays.
Consulate-by-Consulate Requirements & Quirks
One of the most overlooked aspects of the D2 visa process is that the rules can shift depending on which Portuguese consulate you apply through.
While the legal framework remains the same, local interpretations and internal checklists can make the process smoother, or far more demanding.
Below are some examples from major consulates around the world, illustrating just how varied the experience can be.
- Applicants in New Delhi often face a higher proof-of-funds threshold than the legal minimum, with some cases requiring additional bank statements to demonstrate “economic stability.” This means preparing more extensive financial documentation early on, which can prevent delays. 1
- In London, it’s common for consular officers to insist on original, hard-copy bank statements rather than PDF downloads. This extra step can add weeks to the preparation timeline if your bank needs time to print and certify documents. 2
- For applicants going through New York, notarized lease agreements are the norm, even when the same lease would be acceptable without notarization elsewhere. Coordinating this with a Portuguese landlord can require careful timing. 3
- Sydney tends to be strict about business plan formatting, often preferring structured, data-driven plans with clear financial projections. A well-structured business plan aligned with the Portuguese economy is more likely to pass their review without revision requests. 4
- Finally, Rome is known to request supplementary evidence of tax compliance, especially for applicants who already operate a business abroad. Gathering Portuguese tax authority records or international compliance documents ahead of time can speed up processing. 5
Note: Consular checklists can change without notice. Always verify your jurisdiction’s requirements before submission to avoid last-minute surprises.
How to Maximize Your D2 Visa Beyond Approval
Getting your Portugal D2 visa approved is a major milestone, but the real opportunities come after you arrive. From scaling your business to optimizing your taxes and planning for long-term residency, there are strategic moves that can turn your visa into a powerful platform for success.
Portugal is more than a base of operations; it’s a launchpad into the European Union market. With access to EU funding, vibrant startup ecosystems, and a business-friendly legal framework, you can grow faster and more securely while positioning yourself for permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship.
Strategic Moves After Approval
To make the most of your D2 status, focus on these key areas:
- Tap into EU Funding Programs: Explore grants and financing options like Horizon Europe, EEA Grants, or Portugal 2030 to fuel your expansion.
- Join Business Incubators: Organizations like Startup Lisboa, UPTEC, and Beta-i provide mentoring, networking, and investor access.
- Optimize with the NHR Regime: Register with the Portuguese tax authority to lock in potential tax reductions on qualifying foreign-sourced income for up to 10 years.
- Expand Your Client Base: Use your legal presence in Portugal to target EU clients without cross-border restrictions.
- Maintain Tax & Compliance Records: Keep proof of ongoing compliance such as tax returns, social security payments, and corporate filings for renewals.
- Prepare for Renewal Early: Update your business plan annually with new revenue data, market trends, and projections to strengthen your case.
- Work Toward Permanent Residency: After 5 years of legal residency, prepare for permanent residence or citizenship applications, including Portuguese language certification.
- Leverage Business Networks: Engage with chambers of commerce, trade fairs, and local networking groups to build visibility.
The D2 visa is more than an entry permit; it’s a growth tool. By combining financial stability, business expansion, and compliance discipline, you’ll not only protect your residency status but also position yourself for long-term success in Portugal and the wider EU market.
Red Flags & Risky Shortcuts to Avoid
Not every D2 visa service plays by the rules and cutting corners can cost you both time and money.
Watch for these warning signs before committing to a firm or consultant.
Bottom line: The D2 visa is a legal pathway for foreign entrepreneurs, not a shortcut to residency. A credible partner will be transparent about risks, avoid overpromising, and ensure your application is built on solid business and compliance foundations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The D2 Visa can be a powerful pathway for entrepreneurs and independent professionals ready to bring their ideas to Portugal. With the right preparation, from a well-structured business plan to a clear understanding of consulate-specific requirements, the process can be both efficient and rewarding.
Choosing the right legal partner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A skilled firm can help you navigate complex procedures, avoid costly mistakes, and position your business for long-term success in the Portuguese economy.
Take the time to research, compare, and select a partner who aligns with your goals so you can focus on building your future in Portugal with confidence.
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