Latest news and stories about visa renewal in Portugal for expats and residents.
The Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) has launched its online portal for renewing residence permits that expire in November and December. The agency continues to release renewal slots in two-month blocks to manage demand, eliminating the need for in-person appointments for these specific cases.
Home News AIMA announces opening of Renewal Portal for expired Residence Permits AIMA announces opening of Renewal Portal for expired Residence Permits In an online publication, AIMA reveals that the Renewals Portal, aimed at Residence Permits expiring in September and October 2026, is now open.
A common question from immigrants in Portugal is whether a full year of social security contributions is required to renew a temporary residence permit. The answer is no; Portuguese law does not mandate a twelve-month minimum. Instead, applicants must prove they continue to meet the conditions for residency, such as having sufficient means of subsistence, adequate housing, and a regularized tax and social security status. While contributions help demonstrate professional activity and income, the focus is on overall compliance with legal requirements rather than a specific duration of payments. It is essential to ensure all tax and social security obligations are up to date to avoid issues during the renewal process.
Foreigners who need AIMA cannot even submit the contact form, as the online system returns an error. The validity period for expired documents ends on April 15.
New renewal receipts will be available in the personal area of the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) website. The validity is being extended ahead of the April 15 deadline for renewals that have not yet been processed. The new document is valid for 60 days and can be renewed until a final decision is reached. Despite government efforts to ensure these receipts are recognised by public and private entities, many immigrants continue to face difficulties due to delays in the issuance of residence cards.
Home News AIMA extends validity of renewal certificates AIMA extends validity of renewal certificates According to Diário de Notícias, the validity of renewal certificates issued by AIMA will be extended. By Bruno G.
Query asking which documents are needed to renew a residence permit — typically identity document and current permit, proof of address, evidence of means of subsistence or employment, a criminal record certificate if required, passport photos and payment of fees (requirements vary by country and permit type).
