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🚨 Deadline Relief: Residence Renewals Extended until October 15, 2025
Decree-Law no. 85-B/2025 extends the validity of residence cards for foreign citizens until October 15, 2025, addressing the backlog in permit renewals.
The Portuguese government acted today to address the backlog in residence permit renewals by issuing Decree-Law no. 85-B/2025. This decree-law, with immediate effect, extends the validity of residence cards for foreign citizens until October 15, 2025.
This applies to cards that expired (or were set to expire) between 2020 and mid-2025 and were covered by the COVID-era automatic extensions.
- Positive News: If your residence card has expired or is about to expire, you remain in legal status until October 15, 2025.
- Action Required: This date is now the final cutoff date to regularize your situation.
- New Process: AIMA and a dedicated “Mission Structure” have launched new online renewal services. Holders of expired authorizations should look for instructions (including in email spam) to access the online platform, update their data, and pay the fee, as the intent is to avoid the need for in-person appointments.
After October 15, an expired document will only be accepted as proof of legal residence if accompanied by proof that the renewal has been requested. It is crucial for residents to use this extra time to regularize their status.