1. Framework in August 2026
AIMA handles first permits, biometrics and card administration. Consulates issue residence visas; border control is not an AIMA function. The former SEF name is historical.
The general route is entry with an appropriate residence visa followed by an AIMA application. Manifestação de Interesse is not open to new applicants. ARI, EU-family and protection cases have separate rules.
2. Appointment
An appointment may accompany the visa. If missing, use only current AIMA contact channels. Appointments are personal and free.
- Check visa remarks and confirmation
- Keep passport and visa references ready
- Document rescheduling or a missed appointment
- Attend task-force centres only by invitation
3. Documents
AIMA lists passport, residence visa, means, a sworn address declaration with evidence of the legal basis for occupying the home, health cover and family evidence where relevant. Tax and social-security registrations are required where applicable; NIF and NISS are not identical universal requirements.
| General file | Category additions |
|---|---|
| Passport, visa, form, accommodation, means and health cover | D1 employment; D2 activity/company; D3 qualifications; student enrolment; D7 income; D8 foreign work; family civil records |
An Atestado is not the only universal accommodation document.
4. Biometrics
The applicant attends with originals and copies. Documents, photograph, fingerprints and signature may be collected. A representative cannot replace personal biometric attendance.
- Appointment and passport
- Current category documents
- Correct delivery address
- Payment and application receipts
- Written missing-document instructions
5. Fees
The fee table changed from 1 March 2026. Amounts vary by procedure, channel, card and category; ARI charges differ greatly from ordinary temporary residence.
6. Receipt and travel
The receipt may evidence a pending Portuguese procedure, but AIMA states it is not a travel document. Schengen transit or re-entry with an expired visa/card is not guaranteed.
7. Card delivery
AIMA does not publish one guaranteed delivery time for every case. Keep the recipient name visible, monitor notices, contact CTT/AIMA after failed delivery and check all printed data immediately.
8. Renewal
In August 2026 the Renewal Portal covers permits expiring from 1 July 2025 through 31 October 2026, specified ARI cases and permanent EU documents. AIMA may request biometrics after digital review. Coverage can change.
9. Family reunification
Lei 61/2025 changed the rules from 23 October 2025. The general two-year period, a 15-month rule in specified prior-cohabitation circumstances and statutory exceptions require case-specific review. Family relationship, accommodation and resources remain relevant.
10. Delays and security
Start with AIMA’s official form. Serious delay may justify Livro de Reclamações, the Ombudsman or qualified legal advice.
- Report lost/stolen cards
- Use official domains and payment references
- Avoid paid appointments and personal IBAN requests
- Protect passports and banking access
11. Checklist
- Check visa and appointment
- Download the current category page
- Prepare passport, accommodation, means and health evidence
- Add category documents
- Confirm delivery address
- Keep receipts
- Check the card
- Monitor renewal coverage
12. FAQ
No appointment on the visa?
Use current official AIMA channels.
Receipt for Schengen travel?
No. It is not a travel document.
NIF and NISS universal?
AIMA says where applicable; check the category.
Atestado always compulsory?
No. Evidence depends on the legal basis for occupying the home.
Lawyer compulsory?
Not for an ordinary filing.