Since the beginning of 2024, many nationals have found themselves in a complex situation when it comes to renewing their European residence permit. This complexity is due in particular to the dissolution of the Aliens and Borders Service (SEF)which leaves behind a total of 347,000 pending immigration processes. The new Migration and Integration Agency (AIMA) has now assumed responsibility for these files, and aims to take significant steps to resolve this delicate situation.
AIMA has work to spare, following the closure of SEF
One of AIMA's initial priorities is to address outstanding processes, particularly those relating to family reunifications. The government is committed to launching a "specific operation" in the first quarter of 2024 to resolve these issues, and to setting up a "digital portal for online applications to issue and renew residence permits" by the end of this year.
AIMA is also planning a mega-operation to resolve the backlog of cases, with the participation of local authorities and local Migrant Integration Support Centers. This initiative includes the installation of an AIMA Contact Center, the opening of specific stores in public places, the creation of dedicated stores, and the extension of the physical presence on the territory through partnerships with municipalities, universities and other entities.
In addition to processing backlogs, AIMA will have to handle around 340,000 visa renewals in 2024, particularly for citizens of the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries and Ukrainians fleeing war. To achieve this, the new agency has a budget of 81 million euros, plans to open 34 reception offices across the country, and plans to add at least 10 new offices in the coming year. With 740 employees and 190 new hires planned, AIMA aims to improve the quality and speed of the services it offers.
Reinforcing document security is another of AIMA's priorities, with the creation of a permanent team to audit internal procedures and combat fraud.
In addition to these operational measures, the government plans to launch a new portal by the end of the year, facilitating family reunification applications without the need for a telephone appointment. Visit 2024A strategic plan for the promotion of the Portuguese language will also be put in place, extending the portal's functions to include applications for the issue and renewal of residence permits, as well as the creation of a multidisciplinary national center for the management of international protection processes.
European Union residents, how to renew your European residence permit
Following the closure of the SEF and the advent of AIMA, it is essential to understand the new procedures for obtaining the permanent residence certificate. This document, which formalizes the right of permanent residence, is now reserved for European Union (EU) nationals and their family members after five years of legal residence in the country (which means you must have previously obtained the CRUE).
Conditions of Eligibility
The right to enter, stay and reside in Portugal extends to nationals of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), Andorra and Switzerland, as well as their family members.
Application procedure
For stays of more than five years, the application must be submitted to Lojas AIMA, by prior appointment. Before going to the Lojas AIMATo register for a personal appointment, please use the contact form and select the subject "Cartão de Residente da União Europeia (CRUE)". Registrations will be examined in the order of expiry of titles.
How to apply
- Prior appointment : Make sure you make an appointment in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
- Legal residence for five years : You must have been legally resident in Portugal for five consecutive years.
- Documents required : Prepare two recent passport-style photos in color with a white background, your passport or valid ID/citizen card, and the EU registration certificate.
- Change of address : If you've changed address, provide proof such as a change-of-address certificate from the town hall, a notarized deed of purchase and sale, or a rental contract.
- Application form : Complete the Certificado de Residência Permanente application form for European Union citizens and their relatives from the same countries.
With this information, you should have no difficulty in obtaining your certificate of permanent residence in Portugal. But be patient.
