Changes to EU Citizens' Residency Process in Portugal

26 January 2024

European Union citizens intending to establish residence in Portugal will be impacted by recent updates outlined in Decree No. 13, from 22nd of January 2024. These modifications primarily concern the Registration Certificate for EU citizens and the Permanent Residence Certificate for EU citizens. 


The reasoning behind these adjustments lies in their alignment with the regulations stipulated by the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament. The primary goal is to reinforce the safety measures for EU citizens and their families as they exercise their right to free movement within the borders of the European Union.


AIMA, the Portuguese agency responsible for immigration matters is the public entity responsible for the emission and personalisation of the certificates. AIMA is also assigned with the implementation and management of technological infrastructures, ensuring the seamless registration, transmission, and processing of these requests. Furthermore, AIMA exercises authority over the collection of personal data, granting, and delivery of both the Permanent Residence Certificate for EU citizens and the Residence Card of a family member of a Union citizen.


It's important to highlight that Decree No. 13, from 22nd of January 2024, encompasses a broader spectrum, involving the reorganization of the Portuguese border control system, a legislative shift initiated by Law No. 73 from 12th of November 2021. This restructuring aims at a nuanced delegation and separation of entities responsible for enforcement and administrative activities. To delve into the specifics of this reorganization, you may examine the details provided in this article.


Decree No. 13, from 22nd of January 2024, comes into force 30 days following its publication. It applies exclusively to processes initiated from that specific day onward, without any retrospective impact on preceding processes.


If you need help with this matter or any other related issue, please don't hesitate to ask for our assistance. We will be delighted to assist you.

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