Portugal Ends Automatic Extensions for Residence Permits

Key Point  

• Effective 15 October 2025, Portugal declared that holders of expired residence permits lose their validity unless they have initiated the renewal process

Residence Permit  

Starting 15 October 2025, expired residence permits in Portugal will no longer be considered valid unless the holder has initiated the renewal process. AIMA now allows foreign nationals to begin renewals online, eliminating the need to visit an immigration office in person. This change marks a shift toward stricter enforcement and streamlined digital procedures for residence permit renewals. 

Background  

This update follows the earlier announcement covered by Envoy Global on 10 July 2025, which extended the validity of expired residence permits in Portugal through 15 October 2025, under Decree-Law No. 85-B/2025.  

During the extension period, Portugal allowed foreign nationals to reside in the country without renewing their permits. Now that the grace period has ended, AIMA confirms that expired permits are no longer valid unless applicants have initiated the renewal process.

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