Exploring the D2, HQA, D7, Golden and Startup Co-Investor Visas as we’re heading into 2025…

Portugal has emerged as one of the top destinations for individuals seeking residency in Europe, offering an appealing combination of lifestyle, safety, and a (previously) favorable tax regime – the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) Program.

(While new residents can presently no longer qualify for the old NHR program, it is expected that the new Portuguese Budget, to be released in mid-October of 2024, will shed some light on the new version of the program, commonly referred to as NHR 2.0.) 

While the country doesn’t offer a formal Self-Sponsorship Visa route like that of the UK, it nonetheless offers a range of residency programs that can effectively serve as a self-sponsored residency program.

Portugal’s residency programs are diverse, catering to entrepreneurs, freelancers, retirees, and investors alike. 

For those looking to explore self-sponsored residency, five key visa options stand out: 

Here’s a breakdown of these options:

  1. D2 Visa: The Entrepreneur Visa

The D2 Visa is designed for foreign nationals who wish to establish or invest in their own business in Portugal. Ideal for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals, this visa enables you to create or acquire an innovative business. 

Retail and hospitality businesses generally aren’t approved under the D2 route.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • A viable business plan that aligns with Portuguese interests or benefits the economy.
  • Proof of sufficient financial means to support both the business and personal living expenses.
  • Potential for job creation or economic contribution to the local community.

Benefits:

  • Opportunity to create and run a business in Portugal.
  • Residency for family members.
  • Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.

The D2 visa is an excellent option for entrepreneurial-minded individuals who are ready to actively manage their ventures in Portugal.

  1. Highly Qualified Activity (HQA) Visa

The HQA Visa (D3 Visa category) is aimed at individuals who hold higher-level qualifications and intend to engage in research, academia, or a highly specialized activity in Portugal. This visa is designed for those seeking to contribute to Portuguese innovation ecosystems through research or scientific initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • A contractual or partnership relationship with a Portuguese higher education or research institution.
  • Evidence of qualifications such as advanced degrees or professional experience in the field.
  • A research proposal or job offer in a recognized academic or technical institution.
  • OR participation in a white-glove, packaged program meeting the D3 Visa’s requirements. 

Benefits:

  • Access to Portugal’s vibrant academic and research networks.
  • Priority residency visa processing
  • Quick integration into Portugal’s scientific community.
  • Long-term residency options and eventual citizenship.

The HQA Visa is ideal for academics, researchers, entrepreneurs and area specialists who want to further their careers while contributing to Portugal’s knowledge economy.

  1. D7 Visa: Passive Income Visa

The D7 Visa is one of Portugal’s most popular residency options, especially for retirees, freelancers, and remote workers who have sufficient passive income. 

The visa allows individuals to live in Portugal without needing to invest in a business or actively manage a company.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Proof of passive income such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or other regular income streams earned without active work.
  • Minimum income thresholds set by Portuguese authorities (generally starting from around €820+ per month for a single applicant).
  • Sufficient funds, deposited in a Portuguese bank account, to cover living expenses for at least 12 months.

Benefits:

  • Flexible residency option without the need to work in Portugal.
  • Access to the healthcare and education systems.
  • Path to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.

The D7 Visa is particularly attractive for retirees and anyone with stable income streams from outside of Portugal.

  1. Golden Visa

The Portuguese Golden Visa program is one of the most well-known Residency By Investment programs in Europe, offering residency to individuals who make a qualifying investment in Portugal. It has been a popular choice for high-net-worth individuals seeking EU residency.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Investment options include:
    • Golden Visa Fund investment of at least €500,000.
    • A €250,000 contribution to Portuguese artistic production or cultural heritage preservation (or €200,000) for projects situated in low-density (AKA rural) areas.
    • Job creation (at least 10 new jobs) – no minimum investment specified
    • A €500,000 investment in scientific research activity.
    • A €500,000 investment towards job creation (minimum 5 jobs).

Benefits:

  • Residency for the investor and their family.
  • Minimal stay requirements (an average of seven days per year).
  • Visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
  • Path to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.

The Golden Visa is perfect for those seeking to invest in Portugal while maintaining the flexibility to reside elsewhere for most of the year.

  1. Startup Co-Investor Visa

The Startup Co-Investor Visa is tailored to entrepreneurs and startup founders seeking to enter the dynamic Portuguese startup ecosystem. 

This program enables you to obtain flexible Portuguese residency by funding a vetted Portuguese startup and serving as its co-founder.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Investment in a startup project in the technology or innovation sectors.
  • Participation in a recognized incubator program.
  • While holding a university qualification is not essential under all circumstances, it is nonetheless advantageous. 

Benefits:

  • Access to Portugal’s thriving tech ecosystem, including incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities.
  • Residency for family members.
  • Potential for high-growth ventures in a supportive environment.

The Startup Co-Investor Visa is ideal for those seeking a flexible investment based residency by investing in a high-potential Portuguese startup.

Final Thoughts

Each of these residency options offers a distinct pathway to living and working in Portugal whilst effectively sponsoring yourself. 

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to establish a business with the D2 Visa, a retiree seeking the relaxed lifestyle of the D7 Visa, or a high-net-worth individual investing through the Golden Visa, Portugal has a solution to fit your needs. 

These visas not only provide the opportunity to enjoy the high quality of life in Portugal but also a gateway to permanent residency and EU citizenship. 

For more information regarding any of the above residency programs, feel free to get in touch with us today.