Residence Authorisation in Portugal through your Children in 2025

Portugal remains an attractive destination for families seeking stability, quality of life, and opportunities. In 2025, one of the most relevant ways to obtain a residence permit stands out: residence permit in Portugal through minor children. This process provides a simplified path for parents who meet certain legal requirements and wish to establish themselves in the country.

In this article, we will explore in detail the legal requirements, the procedure involved, the necessary documents, and answer the most frequently asked questions. The goal is to clarify how this option can be a practical solution for many families interested in residing in Portugal.

What are the requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Portugal through children?

According to paragraph K) of item 1, article 122 of Law no. 23/2007, dated July 4, to obtain a residence permit in Portugal through children, it is cumulatively necessary that:

• The children are under 18 years of age;
• The children are Portuguese or hold a residence permit in Portugal;
• The applicants exercise effective parental responsibilities over the minors;
• They ensure the sustenance and education of the minors.

What is the procedure and timeframe?

This process does not require obtaining a visa before arriving in Portugal. This means it can be requested directly at AIMA, so it is not necessary to return to the country of origin when the applicant is already living in Portugal.

After scheduling, the residence card will be issued within 90 days.

What documents are required to apply for a residence permit in Portugal through children?

As this is a single-stage process corresponding to the application for a residence permit directly at AIMA, the preparation of documents is also simplified and concentrated in one moment.
During the AIMA appointment, the applicant must present:

• AIMA Application;
• Applicant’s passport;
• Residence card or Portuguese identification document of the minor child;
• Proof of address;
• Proof of means of subsistence;
• Proof of family relationship.

What is the validity of the Residence Card?

This residence permit is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance of the residence card and is renewable for a period of 3 years. After 5 years, the foreign citizen may apply for permanent residence and Portuguese nationality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this residence permit offer the same benefits as others?

There is a set of rights inherent to all residence permits, including access to healthcare and education, the possibility of exchanging a driving license, free movement within the Schengen area, and the ability to reunite family members.

My minor child is not living with me. Can I apply for this residence permit?

In addition to the requirement of minority and the legal residence in Portugal or Portuguese nationality of the minor, it is also necessary to prove the minor’s financial dependence and the effective exercise of parental responsibilities. Therefore, if the minor is not living with the applicant, at least the latter requirement is not met.

If my child is already of legal age at the time of renewal, can I renew?

The requirements established for obtaining a residence permit under article 122, paragraph K) of the Immigration Law apply only to the initial grant. For legal security reasons, the fact that any of the requirements related to the minor child no longer apply does not prevent the renewal of the residence permit.

If you are planning to move to Portugal or regularize your situation in the country, rely on our experience to support you at every step of the process. From personalized case analysis to the preparation of the necessary documentation, we are here to simplify and make your path to residence in Portugal as smooth as possible. Contact us to clarify doubts or start your process with confidence and security.