AIMA New Rules for Residence Permit Applications in Portugal 2025

INLIS Consulting
May 30
3 min read

As of April 28, 2025, Portugal’s immigration authority, AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo), has implemented an important policy change that affects all new residence permit applications.

AIMA New Rules for Residence Permit Applications

Whether you're applying under Article 88 (expression of interest), family reunification, study, work, or investment purposes, this new rule demands that applications be 100% complete at the time of submission.

In this article, we break down what AIMA has changed, how it affects you, and how to prepare for your residence permit application under the new guidelines.

What’s Changed?

Under the previous system, it was common for applicants to submit partial or incomplete applications with the understanding that AIMA would later request missing documents.

That is no longer allowed.

As of April 28, 2025:

🔴 Incomplete residence permit applications will be automatically rejected.

AIMA will no longer accept submissions with missing documents or pending items. Applicants must ensure that all required forms, ID, supporting documents, and payments are submitted in full and correctly at the time of application.

💡 Why This Change?

This policy shift is part of AIMA’s effort to:

Streamline application processing
Reduce the massive backlog of over 400,000 cases inherited from SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras)
Ensure faster and more efficient decision-making

By requiring fully completed applications, AIMA aims to minimize follow-ups, reduce delays, and move toward a more professionalized immigration system.

What You Need to Submit a Complete Application

Here’s a general checklist of what a complete residence permit application typically includes (requirements vary based on the type of permit):

🧾 Basic Documents:

Valid passport (with a valid visa or entry stamp)
Recent passport-size photos
Completed application form (Modelo AR)
Proof of legal entry into Portugal

📍 Proof of Residence:

Rental contract, utility bill, or residence certificate from the Junta de Freguesia

💼 Financial & Employment:

Employment contract OR
Proof of self-employment or freelance registration
Social Security number (NISS) and contributions
NIF (Portuguese Tax Number)

💶 Financial Means:

Bank statements, salary slips, or proof of sufficient financial support

📃 Criminal Record:

Criminal record certificate from your country of origin/residence (apostilled and translated)
Portuguese criminal record (AIMA requests this internally)

🏥 Health & Insurance:

Proof of registration in the Portuguese health system (SNS)
Private health insurance (if applicable)

How to Submit Your Application

Currently, residence permit applications are submitted through:

SEF/AIMA online booking system (for appointment scheduling)
In person at an AIMA service center on the scheduled date

AIMA has also announced plans to digitize the application process in the near future, which may allow for full online submission.

What Happens if You Submit an Incomplete Application?

Your application will be rejected outright.
You will likely have to reschedule a new appointment, causing further delays.
You may risk losing your legal status in Portugal if your visa or permit expires before a valid submission is made.

Pro Tips to Avoid Rejection

Double-check the required documents for your specific type of residence permit.
Use a checklist and prepare digital copies of everything.
Get documents translated and apostilled in advance, if needed.
Seek professional help from a legal or immigration consultant, especially if your case is complex.

Source

AIMA Announces New Rules for Residence Permit Applications (April 2025)

Final Thoughts

If you're planning to stay in Portugal long-term, it's critical to stay informed and organized. These new AIMA rules signal a move toward a stricter, more formalized immigration process.

Make sure you're fully prepared before attending your appointment or submitting your file.

Need help preparing your complete application? Reach out to our team at INLIS Consulting — we assist with documentation, translations, and appointment scheduling for foreigners living in Portugal.