How to Apply for Portuguese New Residence Permit
Applying for a Portuguese New Residence Permit
The new residence permit is aimed at all UK nationals who have been residents in Portugal before 31 December 2020. It basically confirms their status as beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement made between the United Kingdom and the European Union including Portugal.
For advice on other visas, please follow this link.
The New Residence Permit replaces the old EU residence documents issued previously such as the Registration Certificates issued by the town halls or camera and Certificates of Permanent Residence issued by the SEF or Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service.
The current EU residence documents will be accepted as legal until the new residence permit can be issued.
The first step is to register on the Brexit Portal and submit the application form. UK nationals can download digital proof of their registration. The document has a QR code which can be printed off and used if travelling to prove your residence in Portugal.
When can I apply?
If you already have a residence document from the Portugal authorities, you can register for a New Residence permit.
The SEF will then contact you to book an appointment when you will be asked to provide your photo, signature and fingerprints for your New Residence permit.
Appointments can be scheduled at any of the Town Halls (Câmara Municipal) that will be offering this service.
What is the deadline for the exchange?
The SEF has stated that all British nationals covered by the European Union Withdrawal Agreement and living in Portugal, that the certificate with the QR Code is an official document that can be used if you travel outside of Portugal and proves your right to residency in the country.
Expect Delays in Issuing
You should also be aware that current EU residence documents will continue to be accepted as proof until the new residence permit is issued. Please note that there have been long delays in issuing the New Documents. Partly due to the change over in control of the SEF as it is set to be replaced by the Portuguese Agency of Migration and Asylum (APMA).
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