The D2 Visa is for entrepreneurs and investors, while the D7 Passive Income Visa is for individuals with stable passive income sources.
The D2 Visa and the D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa) are two distinct types of residency visas in Portugal, each catering to different profiles and purposes. Understanding the key differences between these visas can help you determine which one best suits your circumstances.
1. Purpose and Eligibility
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D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa):
- Purpose: The D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs, independent professionals, and business owners who wish to start, invest in, or manage a business in Portugal.
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate a viable business plan, show evidence of sufficient financial resources to support the business, and commit to actively managing the business operations. The visa is ideal for those looking to establish or expand a business in Portugal.
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D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa):
- Purpose: The D7 Visa is intended for individuals who have a stable passive income and wish to reside in Portugal without the need to work. This visa is popular among retirees, investors, and individuals with income from sources like pensions, rental properties, dividends, or savings.
- Eligibility: Applicants must prove they have sufficient passive income to support themselves without engaging in active employment or business operations. The visa is suitable for those seeking a quiet life in Portugal, supported by non-work-related income.
2. Income Requirements
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D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa):
- Business-Related Income: The D2 Visa focuses on the potential income generated by your business in Portugal. Applicants must show that they have the financial means to fund their business operations and sustain themselves during the initial stages of the business.
- Investment Requirements: While there is no set minimum investment amount, the business plan must be realistic and demonstrate the potential for economic impact, such as job creation or contributing to the local economy.
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D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa):
- Passive Income Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate a steady and sufficient passive income to meet the minimum income thresholds set by the Portuguese government. This income can come from pensions, rental properties, dividends, interest, or other investments.
- Minimum Income Levels: The required income levels are based on the Portuguese minimum wage, with additional amounts needed for dependents. As of the most recent guidelines, the minimum income for a single applicant is approximately €8,460 per year, with additional amounts for each dependent.
3. Residency Obligations and Flexibility
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D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa):
- Active Involvement: D2 Visa holders are expected to actively manage their business in Portugal. This visa requires a higher level of commitment to business operations and ongoing compliance with business-related regulations.
- Residency Requirements: The D2 Visa typically requires the visa holder to spend the majority of the year in Portugal, though the exact time requirements may vary.
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D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa):
- Flexibility: The D7 Visa offers more flexibility in terms of residency. While you are required to spend a minimum amount of time in Portugal to maintain the visa (at least six consecutive or eight non-consecutive months per year), there is less emphasis on active involvement in any business or employment.
- Passive Lifestyle: The D7 Visa is ideal for those who prefer a passive lifestyle, focusing on enjoying life in Portugal without the need for active business management.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
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D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa):
- Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residency, D2 Visa holders can apply for permanent residency in Portugal, provided they meet the necessary criteria, including demonstrating the stability and success of their business.
- Citizenship: Following permanent residency, D2 Visa holders may apply for Portuguese citizenship after another year, assuming they meet the language and integration requirements.
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D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa):
- Permanent Residency: D7 Visa holders are also eligible to apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous residency in Portugal.
- Citizenship: Similar to the D2 Visa, D7 Visa holders can apply for citizenship after six years of residency, provided they meet the relevant requirements, including language proficiency and integration.
Summary
The D2 Visa is tailored for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to establish and manage a business in Portugal, requiring active involvement in the business and a focus on economic contribution. In contrast, the D7 Visa is designed for individuals with a stable passive income who wish to reside in Portugal without the need for employment or business activities. Each visa has its own set of requirements and benefits, making them suitable for different types of applicants based on their residency goals and financial circumstances.