About residency requirements
If you are a national of a European Union country, how much time can you stay in Portugal without having to do any paperwork?
European Union citizens have the right to reside in Portuguese territory for a period of up to three months without any conditions or paperwork other than holding a valid identity card or passport, along with any family members in possession of a valid passport, accompanying or joining the Union citizen.
How can I obtain a permanent residency certificate (certificado de residência permanente)?
This document must be requested from an office of the Foreigners and Borders Service prior to the expiry of a residency certificate. You must make an appointment before going to the office.
What is a Residence Permit?
A residence permit (Authorization of Residence) shall be issued for the foreign national authorized to reside in Portuguese territory, which comprises 2 types:
a) Temporary residence permit - valid for 1 year from the date of its issue, renewable for successive periods of 2 years.For more information about the granting of Residence Permits, see the information provided by the Foreign Nationals and Borders Service here.
b) Permanent residence permit - with no expiration date, should be renewed every 5 years, or whenever changes occur with the identification elements therein registered.
How to acquire Portuguese nationality?
- The current legislation establishes various forms to acquire Portuguese nationality which you may consult here.
For detailed information on this matter, contact the Institute of Registration and Notary Affairs (IRN)
