AIMA Updates Residency Application Rules

The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) will no longer accept applications for new or renewed residence permits in Portugal unless all required documents are submitted.

AIMA Enforces Complete Documentation Requirement for Residency Applications in Portugal

📅 Effective Date: April 28, 2025

As of April 28, 2025, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) mandates that all applications for granting and renewing residence permits in Portugal must be complete upon submission.

This means that applications lacking any of the required documents, as stipulated by the Foreigners Act and Regulatory Decree No. 1/2024 of January 17, will not be accepted for processing.

Key Highlights

Complete Applications Only: AIMA will only accept applications that include all legally required documents. Incomplete submissions will be rejected outright.
Objective: This policy aims to streamline the application process, ensuring quicker and more efficient decision-making.

Required Documentation

Applicants must ensure the inclusion of all necessary documents, which may include:

Valid identification and travel documents
Proof of legal entry and stay in Portugal
Evidence of sufficient financial means
Valid health insurance
Criminal record certificates from the country of origin and/or residence
Proof of accommodation in Portugal

All documents must be current, and if issued abroad, they should be legalized or apostilled and translated into Portuguese or English, as applicable.

💻 Submission Methods

Digital Submission: Applicants are encouraged to submit applications through AIMA's online portal. Digital submissions benefit from a 25% reduction in application fees.
In-Person Submission: Applications can also be submitted at AIMA service centers. However, this method does not offer the fee reduction available for digital submissions.

Implications for Applicants

Preparation: Applicants must gather and verify all required documents before submission to avoid rejection.
Efficiency: Complete applications facilitate a faster processing time, aligning with AIMA's goal of swift decision-making.
Compliance: Strict adherence to the documentation requirements is essential to prevent delays or denials.