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How to regularize my status in Portugal?

A residence permit is a legal document that allows its holder to reside in Portugal for a specific period of time or indefinitely. There are two types of residence permits: temporary and permanent. Learn more about this topic.

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Índice

  1. Entry visas and extensions
  2. How to apply for a residence permit
  3. Important Documents for Applying for a Residence Permit

Residence permits are intended for:

  • When working for someone else.

  • Engaging in self-employment – ‘recibos verdes’.

  • Conducting scientific research or highly qualified work.

  • Studying or participating in an unpaid professional internship.

  • Volunteering.

  • Family reunification.

The authority responsible for issuing these documents in Portugal was SEF – the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service. Since 2023, SEF was abolished and the responsibility for residence permits was transferred to AIMA.

Entry visas and extensions

If you plan to apply for a residence permit in Portugal, it is important that you enter the country with a valid visa. Visas are granted to those who:

  • Are not legally prohibited from entering Portugal.

  • Are not listed for refusal of entry in the Schengen Information System.

  • Are not listed for refusal of entry in SEF’s Integrated Information System.

  • Have sufficient means of subsistence.

  • Hold a valid passport.

  • Have travel insurance.

Before your visa expires, you can request an extension, giving you more time to meet the requirements for applying for a residence permit, provided that you:

  • Have a valid passport.

  • Have proof of means of subsistence and accommodation.

  • Allow access to your Portuguese criminal record.

  • Hold a travel ticket that ensures your return at the end of the visa period.

To do this, go here and select the option that applies to your situation. For example, if your visa is a tourist (Schengen) visa, choose the first option, gather the required documents, and complete the form (“impresso”) to submit at one of SEF’s offices.

If your visa expires before you start the residence permit application process, you will have to pay a fine. The same applies if you fail to declare your entry into Portugal when entering through a border without SEF control. This declaration must be made within three working days of your arrival (see below for instructions on how to do this).

How to apply for a residence permit

The application for a residence permit must be submitted at one of SEF’s offices. To be assisted at a SEF office, you need to make an appointment by calling 808 202 653 or 808 962 690. Appointments can be made on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Important Documents for Applying for a Residence Permit

To apply for a residence permit in Portugal, you will need to have the following documents ready:

  • A valid passport.

  • Proof of means of subsistence (e.g., bank statements, employment contract).

  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement, declaration from host).

  • Proof of health insurance or access to the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS).

  • Criminal record certificate from your home country and, if applicable, from Portugal.

  • Completed application form (“impresso”) for the residence permit.

  • Any additional documents depending on the type of permit (e.g., employment contract, enrollment in studies, volunteer agreement).

Make sure all documents are up-to-date and, when necessary, officially translated into Portuguese.