Immigration update: Portugal | General guidance on the new residence permits for UK nationals under the Withdrawal Agreement
General guidance on the new residence permits for UK nationals under the Withdrawal Agreement
What is the new residence Permit?
The new residence permit will be issued to UK nationals residents in Portugal before 31 December 2020 and confirms their status as beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
This new residence permit replaces the EU residence documents previously issued (Registration Certificates issued by the town halls and Certificates of Permanent Residence issued by SEF – Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service).
The current residence EU documents will be accepted after 31 December 2020 and until the new residence permit is issued.
After registering on this Portal and submitting the form, the UK nationals can download digital proof of their registration – a document, with a QR code – which can be printed and used when travelling to prove residence in Portugal.
Who can apply?
UK nationals who are living in Portugal before the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020, and UK minors who are family members of residents as set out in the Withdrawal Agreement.
UK nationals who come to live in Portugal after 1 January 2021 may need to require a residence visa and should follow the relevant application process.
Family members of UK nationals who are third country nationals must follow the usual process of renewing their residence card.
When can I apply?
If you already have a residence document from Portugal, you can register for a new residence permit now on this Portal.
After January 2021, you will be asked to book an appointment to provide your biometric data (photo, signature and fingerprints) for your new residence permit.
Appointments can be scheduled from 1 January 2021 onwards and will take place at a Town Hall (Camara Municipal) that is offering this service near to of your residence area.
What is the deadline for exchange?
The registration to exchange you residence document on this Portal will be open until at least the end of June 2021.
Thereafter you will need to schedule an appointment directly with SEF to exchange your residence documentation.
Useful Links
23/2007 Act covering the immigration rules for third country nationals
Commission Implementing Decision of 21/02/2020
Should you have any questions, please contact the following for assistance:
Luciana Zettel
Immigration Specialist
Santa Fe Relocation
Email: luciana.zettel@santaferelo.com
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