Registration Certificate for EU Citizen & Families in Portugal

Citizens from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), Andorra, and Switzerland and their families can enter and stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa. If they wish to stay for longer than 90 days, they need a “Registration Certificate” which is valid for 5 years.

Step-by-step Process:

STEP 1: Schedule an appointment with the municipal council

Make an appointment with the local municipal council (Câmara Municipal) to obtain the Registration Certificate if you are an EU, EEA, Andorra, or Switzerland national who wants to stay in Portugal for over 90 days. The appointment must be scheduled in your area of residency.

STEP 2: Gather the required documents

When visiting for the certificate, bring the following documents:

STEP 3: Receive certificate

The Registration Certificate will be given to you during the appointment day and is valid for 5 years. This certificate grants you permanent residency in Portugal for the next 5 years and may lead to citizenship under certain conditions.

STEP 4: Residence card for EU national’s family members.

Portugal, following EU law, protects families of EU nationals. Family members who are non-EU nationals and intend to join an EU/EEA/Swiss national in Portugal must apply for a residence card at the Portuguese immigration office (AIMA).

Eligible family members include:

Before applying for a visa or residence permit, non-EU families must show their connection to Portugal through professional and/or financial means.

The following documents are required:

EU national's valid passport
Registration certificate
Non-EU family member's valid passport
Proof of relationship
Professionalism documents
Adequate financing or income
Portuguese tax numbers
Accommodation contract
Non-EU family member's criminal record
State responsibility form

Step 5: Apply at the Consulate

Apply for an EU-family visit visa at a Portuguese consulate in the non-EU family member’s home country, along with the required documents. The visa may not be required if the country is exempt or the family member already holds a Schengen visa.

Step 6: Book an AIMA Appointment

Book an appointment with AIMA by telephone and visit AIMA on the appointed day with all necessary documents translated into Portuguese. Fingerprints will be taken at AIMA.

Step 7: Receive Residence Card

The residence card will be sent to the Portuguese address by post and is valid for five years.