Residence Permits in Portugal Now Valid Until 15 October 2025
A new legal change has just come into effect in Portugal. As of 1 July 2025, Decree-Law No. 85-B/2025 is officially in force, introducing significant changes for foreign residents in Portugal: residence permits that expired between 22 February 2020 and 30 June 2025 are now considered valid until 15 October 2025.
This measure affects a large number of people and provides additional time to prepare the necessary documentation and move forward with the renewal process.
Who Is Covered Under the New Rules?
The extension applies to foreign nationals legally residing in Portugal whose residence permits expired during the previously mentioned period. However, it is important to note that the decree is valid only within Portugal and in the resident’s home country.
If your residence permit is included in this time window, that means it will expire, so there is a need to renew it. The process must be initiated through the online platform created by
AIMA, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum. After registering, applicants will receive email notifications with instructions on how to proceed. A fee, set by the Portuguese government, will apply.
How the Renewal Process Works
Depending on your situation, the steps may vary. If your passport and biometric data are current, you can complete the process entirely online. Otherwise, you will be asked to attend an in-person appointment to update your biometrics and provide any missing documentation.
One crucial point: the application only moves forward after you pay the applicable AIMA fee. Once you receive the invoice, it is essential to make the payment quickly, as delays may be seen as a decision to withdraw your renewal request.
Fees Vary by Permit Type
Not all residence permits cost the same to renew. For example, if you are applying through the Portuguese Golden Visa programme, the current renewal fee is €4,050.30. Other permits may involve lower fees, depending on the specifics of your residence status. Currently, the lowest AIMA fee is €45.30.
What Happens After 15 October?
The law also includes a transitional rule to cover cases where AIMA has not processed an application by the deadline. According to Article 2, paragraph 2 of the decree:
From 15 October 2025 onwards, proof of payment for the renewal request — issued by AIMA — will serve as valid documentation. This proof remains valid for 180 days from the date it was issued.
In other words, if you have already paid the renewal fee but have not heard back from AIMA by 15 October, you are still covered for another six months, giving you extra time to see your residency situation regularised.
Why It is Worth Getting Professional Support
With limited time and a potentially high number of applicants, early preparation is advisable. Consulting with an immigration lawyer in Portugal can help you avoid delays, ensure your documents are complete, and navigate the system with less stress.
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