The D2 Visa application process includes gathering documents, scheduling an appointment, providing biometric data, submitting the application, waiting for processing, and following consulate/embassy instructions.
The application process for the D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa) in Portugal involves several key steps, from preparing your business plan to submitting your application and attending an interview. The process is designed to ensure that applicants have a viable business idea and the means to establish and run their business in Portugal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved:
1. Preparation of Required Documents
- Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan is the cornerstone of your D2 Visa application. It should include details about your business idea, market analysis, financial projections, and how your business will contribute to the Portuguese economy.
- Proof of Financial Means: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your business in Portugal. This could include bank statements, proof of personal savings, or investment funds.
- Accommodation in Portugal: Provide evidence of accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or property purchase contract, to show that you have a place to live once you arrive.
- Passport and Identification: A valid passport and any other necessary identification documents are required. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in Portugal.
- Criminal Background Check: Obtain a criminal background check from your home country or any country where you have lived for more than one year. This document should be translated into Portuguese and authenticated (apostilled) if required.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance that covers you in Portugal is also necessary. This can be a private health insurance policy that meets Portuguese requirements.
2. Submission of the Visa Application
- Apply at the Portuguese Consulate: The D2 Visa application must be submitted to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country or country of legal residence. This is where you will submit all your prepared documents.
- Application Form: Complete the official D2 Visa application form, which you can obtain from the consulate or their website. Ensure that all sections are filled out accurately and completely.
- Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the consulate. Keep the receipt as proof of payment, as it may need to be included in your application packet.
3. Consulate Review and Interview
- Document Review: The consulate will review your application and supporting documents. If everything is in order, they will schedule an interview.
- Visa Interview: Attend an interview at the consulate. During the interview, you may be asked questions about your business plan, your reasons for choosing Portugal, and how you plan to manage and grow your business. Be prepared to explain your business idea in detail and demonstrate its viability.
4. Approval and Initial Visa Issuance
- Initial Approval: If your application is approved, the consulate will issue you an initial visa that allows you to enter Portugal. This visa is usually valid for four months, giving you time to enter the country and begin the process of establishing your business.
- Enter Portugal: After receiving your visa, you can travel to Portugal and start setting up your business according to your plan. This includes registering your business, securing necessary licenses, and fulfilling any other legal requirements.
5. Obtaining the Residence Permit in Portugal
- SEF Appointment: Once in Portugal, you need to schedule an appointment with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service, to apply for your residence permit. It is important to book this appointment as soon as possible after your arrival.
- Submission of Additional Documents: At your SEF appointment, you will need to submit additional documents, such as proof of your registered business, updated proof of accommodation, and any other documents SEF may request.
- Biometrics and Fees: You will be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) during the SEF appointment and pay the residence permit fee.
6. Issuance of the Residence Permit
- Residence Permit Issuance: After your SEF appointment and review of your documents, SEF will issue a residence permit that is usually valid for two years. This permit allows you to live and work in Portugal and must be renewed before it expires.
- Renewal Process: The residence permit can be renewed for an additional three years, provided you meet the renewal requirements, including continued business operation and meeting residency requirements.
7. Renewal and Long-Term Residency
- Renewal of Residence Permit: As the end of your initial residence permit approaches, apply for a renewal through SEF. You must demonstrate that your business is active, financially viable, and that you have fulfilled the residency requirements (typically spending at least 183 days per year in Portugal).
- Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of continuous residency, you can apply for permanent residency. Following one more year, you may be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided you meet the additional requirements, such as language proficiency.
Summary
The application process for the D2 Visa involves preparing a detailed business plan and necessary documentation, submitting your application to a Portuguese consulate, attending an interview, and obtaining an initial visa to enter Portugal. Once in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit through SEF, which allows you to live and work in the country. The residence permit is initially valid for two years and can be renewed. After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. The process requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal requirements to ensure a successful application.