Renewing residence permits (AR) in Portugal is an essential process for foreign citizens who wish to continue legally residing in the country. Recently, the Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN) implemented a new scheduling procedure for renewals to make the process more efficient and organized.
How does the new appointment procedure work?
Chronological order of expired RAs – The IRN has established that scheduling for face-to-face appointments will follow the chronological order of the residence permits that have expired since August 2024. In other words, the RAs that expired first will be the first to be renewed.
Direct contact by the IRN – Citizens will be contacted directly by the IRN to schedule the day and time of the service at the counter corresponding to their area of residence. This contact will be made using the details provided at the time of the initial residence application.
Who can apply for renewal?
Interested party or legal representative – The request for renewal can be made by the holder of the residence permit or their legal representative. It is essential that the contact details are up to date in order to guarantee receipt of notifications from the IRN.
What documents are needed for renewal?
To ensure an efficient renewal process, it is important to gather the following documents:
- Valid passport – Proof of identity and nationality.
- Expired residence permit – Original document of the expired RA.
- Proof of means of subsistence – Income statement or employment contract.
- Proof of current address – Document proving residence in Portugal.
- Criminal record – Up-to-date certificate from country of origin or countries where you have lived.
What are the consequences of not renewing your residence permit on time?
Irregular situation – Failure to renew the residence permit within the established deadlines can lead to a situation of irregular residence in Portugal, subjecting the citizen to possible legal sanctions.
Legal impediments – There may be restrictions on accessing public services, signing contracts and other activities that require a regular migration status.
How to ensure a successful renovation?
To avoid complications in the renewal process, it is recommended to:
- Keep your contact details up to date – Ensure that the IRN has the correct information to make the appointment.
- Prepare documentation in advance – Gather all the necessary documents before being contacted by IRN.
- Consult specialized professionals – In case of doubts or specific situations, seeking specialized legal advice can facilitate the process.
Do you need assistance renewing your residence permit?
At LACA we offer specialized legal advice to support foreign citizens in renewing their residence permits in Portugal. Our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring legal compliance and peace of mind.
Contact us for personalized support and to ensure a hassle-free renewal!
