Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) is facing a severe backlog of over 400,000 cases, ranging from Golden Visa applications to renewals of residency cards. This has led to numerous delays, causing concern for those whose residency cards are about to expire.

However, there is some good news that will help ease the agency’s burden. The Portuguese government is implementing an action plan to resolve pending issues by June 2025 and announced that all residency visas and documents will remain valid until then.

Portugal Residence Card Renewal Extension

Portuguese Golden Visa and permanent residency applications go through various steps, with most people facing the dreaded task of renewing the cards every two years. For example, the initial golden visa residency permit is valid for two years and can be renewed in chunks of two years afterward.

After holding a Golden Visa in Portugal for five years, you may be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship if you meet additional requirements, such as demonstrating basic knowledge of the Portuguese language, typically at the A2 level.

Thankfully, this is no longer the case, as the government confirmed that all golden visa and residency card holders have been granted a renewal extension until June 2025.

This means all residency cards that expire on or after June 14, 2024, will still be valid. This takes an enormous amount of pressure off AIMA and, in theory, should speed up any ongoing renewals and applications.

Reducing AIMA's Backlog

AIMA was established in 2023 to replace Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) and was tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that immigrants are effectively integrated into Portuguese society.

However, since its inception, the agency has been facing significant challenges, including a massive backlog, thousands of complaints, and employee strikes. According to estimates, AIMA inherited 350,000 pending applications from SEF, placing it on the back foot from the start.

Acknowledging delays in processing golden visa applications and residency card renewals, the government is implementing an action plan to resolve pending issues by the middle of next year.

In addition to granting renewal extensions, AIMA will be hiring 300 more workers to assist with applications, and recently undertook to modernize the computer system.

Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your Immigration Visa?

GLOBAL APPROACH BY LOCAL EXPERTS

  • GCS has offices located across Portugal.
  • Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal, and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
  • Our expert team can help you throughout your journey to secure your Visa. 

100% APPROVAL RATE

  • Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to applicants. 
  • We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.

ALL-ENCOMPASSING SOLUTION

  • With a single channel of communication, our approach ensures that you have complete clarity on your application. 
  • Our BeGlobal® Onboarding System allows for a total flow of information.

TRANSPARENCY AND PRIVACY

  • Our pricing is clear and detailed, you will not face any hidden costs.
  • All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.

Frequently Asked Questions About Residency Card Renewals

Can I renew my residence card online?

Foreign nationals with a valid residence permit or one that expired less than 6 months ago can renew it on the AIMA website automatically. You can also renew it in person at a registration service desk, but you need to book an appointment. If you don’t have a Portuguese residence permit or if your permit expired more than 6 months ago, you must apply for one at an AIMA service desk.

How do I renew my residency card in Portugal?

Under normal circumstances, it’s recommended that you start the renewal process at least 30 days before your card expires. In addition to gathering all the necessary documents, you need to book an appointment for the renewal of your residency card online through the AIMA website. Bring all the required documents with you. During the appointment, your documents will be reviewed, and you may be asked additional questions regarding your stay in Portugal.

What documents are required for Portugal residence card renewal?

The specific documents you need can vary depending on the type of residency card you hold. However, according to the ePortugal online portal, you will need:

  • A residence permit that is valid or expired less than 6 months ago
  • A valid passport or travel document
  • Proof of means of subsistence
  • Proof of private accommodation
  • Your tax payments must be up to date
  • Proof that your social security contributions are up to date, where applicable.
  • Declaration of authorization for your criminal record to be consulted

How do I book an appointment online?

If you are unable to automatically renew your residency card through the AIMA website, you must book an in-person appointment on the SIGA portal, either through an internet browser or the mobile phone app. On the main screen, select “IRN Registo” as the entity, then select the “Cidadão” option, followed by “Autorização de residência” as the sub-topic. For the reason, enter “Renovação de autorização de residência” (Renewal of residence permit). Once you are presented with the calendar, choose the date, time, and place of your appointment, enter your details, and confirm your identity using your residence permit. After you’ve confirmed the appointment, you’ll receive an email containing the appointment information and the appointment code.

What are the fees for renewing a residence card in Portugal?

The fees associated with renewing a residency card depend on the type of visa. According to AIMA’s fees and payments table, renewing a temporary residence permit costs €82, while the renewal of a permanent residency card costs € 44.30. However, the fees for golden visa holders are significantly higher. Granting the initial permit is €6,045.20 while renewing the residence permit for investment is €3,023.20. In both instances, there is also a €605.10 fee for the “reception and analysis” of renewals.