Are there any specific industries preferred for the D2 Visa?

The D2 Visa is intentionally flexible, allowing entrepreneurs to build businesses across a wide range of industries.

There are no official restrictions on what type of company you can create.

However, some sectors naturally align better with Portugal’s economic priorities, making them more appealing to immigration authorities reviewing your application.

Industry-Neutral, But Strategy Matters

Portugal doesn’t publish a list of preferred industries for the D2 Visa.

Legally, everything from consulting to hospitality to e-commerce is acceptable.

What matters is that your business plan demonstrates sustainability, demand, and local economic contribution.

In practice, people tend to view certain industries more favourably because they align with national development goals or meet clear market needs.

Technology and Innovation

Portugal has emerged as a burgeoning tech hub, drawing in startups and global talent.

Tech-driven businesses (such as software development, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, and digital services) fit naturally into this environment.

They’re often supported by incubators, co-working hubs, and government-led innovation programs.

While you don’t need to be a startup in the traditional sense, tech-related projects often demonstrate strong scalability and economic impact, which strengthens a D2 application.

Tourism, Hospitality, and Experiences

One of Portugal's strongest industries continues to be tourism.

Travel services, boutique accommodations, ecotourism, guided experiences, food tours, and wellness retreats are businesses that typically integrate easily into the economy.

When these ventures emphasise sustainability or foster regional development, they receive particularly positive feedback.

Liberal and Professional Services

Self-employed professionals and service-based entrepreneurs also benefit from the D2 Visa.

This category often attracts applications from consultants, designers, marketers, IT specialists, legal advisors, architects, and other independent professionals.

If your business relies on expertise rather than heavy infrastructure, Portugal provides a stable environment to grow your client base locally or internationally.

Green Energy, Agriculture, and Sustainability

Portugal persists in making significant investments in renewable energy, environmental technologies, and sustainable agriculture.

Solar development, green construction, recycling, permaculture, and innovative farming projects often garner positive attention.

Authorities value initiatives that tackle long-term national objectives.

Creative Industries

Portugal boasts a thriving creative and cultural sector.

Entrepreneurs in digital media, film, design, artisanal goods, and cultural projects often find strong local demand and community support.

How Industry Choice Influences Your Application

Building a trendy or innovative business is not necessary for approval.

Often, a simple, well-executed concept outperforms an ambitious but unrealistic one.

What matters most is showing that your venture fits naturally into Portugal’s market and adds value through jobs, services, or local engagement.

The strongest applications aren’t defined by the sector itself, but by a solid business plan, credible funding, and a clear strategy for contributing to the Portuguese economy.