Permanent residence / EU long-term resident

The Permanent Residence Permit is for non-EU citizens with 5 years of continuous legal residence in Portugal under temporary residence permits. It provides greater stability and eliminates the need for frequent renewals.

Requirements include: no convictions in the last 5 years carrying sentences of more than 1 year; proof of consistent means of subsistence (bank statements, payslips or tax returns for the last 6–12 months); proof of accommodation; basic Portuguese language certificate; and NIF and NISS in order with no tax or social security debts. The application is submitted to AIMA at an in-person appointment.

The permanent residence card is valid for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely — the permanent resident status itself does not expire, only the identity document does. The fee is approximately €121. Permanent residence does not affect naturalisation timelines — it is a residence status, not a direct path to nationality.

Check that you meet all the requirements before submitting the application.