DE Business & investor Temporary
Portugal D2 Entrepreneur / Self-Employment Visa
Start a business or work as a freelancer in Portugal.
Official Germany & Europe pageWho this route is for
Non-EU entrepreneurs investing in or founding a Portuguese business, and independent service providers/freelancers with Portuguese contracts.
Eligibility requirements
- A viable business plan and evidence of investment or company formation in Portugal (no fixed minimum capital, but enough to make the venture credible)
- For freelancers: a service contract or proposal from a Portuguese entity
- Proof of sufficient financial means (broadly the minimum wage, ~EUR 920/month, plus savings)
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal and valid health insurance
- Portuguese tax number (NIF) and clean criminal record
Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Other Germany & Europe routes
Germany Self-Employment / Freelance Visa (Sec 21)
TemporaryRun a business (Sec 21(1)) or freelance (Sec 21(5)) in Germany.
Netherlands DAFT Visa (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty)
TemporaryUS citizens can live in the Netherlands as self-employed with just EUR 4,500 in business capital.
Netherlands Startup Visa
TemporaryOne year to build an innovative startup with a recognised Dutch facilitator.
Portugal Golden Visa (Investment Residence)
ProvisionalResidence by investment with minimal stay — funds, culture or research, no longer real estate.