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.

by António Prata Nunes 13 January 2026
Legal analysis of Portugal’s post-2023 crypto tax framework, covering IRS classification, capital gains, exemptions, tax deferral and cross-border implications.
by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 6 January 2026
Registration of equivalent foreign entities in Portugal: requirements, fiscal representation, rights, and key legal and tax considerations for non-EU investors.
by Cleuzina Silva 2 January 2026
Key points of the EU driving licence reform and what the new rules mean in practice for residents and drivers in Europe.
by Luís Maria Branco 26 December 2025
An overview of the Portuguese Golden Visa, highlighting investment fund and cultural routes, family advantages, mobility within Schengen, and long-term residency planning.
by Francisca Abrantes 19 December 2025
Before buying real estate in Portugal, understanding the tax impact of asset vs. share deals is crucial. Learn why structuring upfront matters for exit.
by Javier Mateo 18 December 2025
Discover how Portugal’s D3 visa supports highly qualified professionals and enables immediate family reunification following the 2025 immigration reform.
16 December 2025
The Constitutional Court has ruled key provisions of the proposed Portuguese Nationality Law reform unconstitutional. Learn what remains in force.
by Cleuzina Cruz 12 December 2025
A practical overview of how foreign nationals can access Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS), including eligibility, Número de Utente and key requirements.
by Danielle Avidago 11 December 2025
Understand how Article 122.º j) allows certain applicants to apply for a residence permit in Portugal without returning home. Requirements, context and practical guidance.
More posts