Portugal Issues Guidance on Renewing Paper Residence Cards

• Portugal has released new instructions for EU nationals and eligible family members renewing paper-based residence cards through the AIMA renewal portal.  

Renewing Paper Residence Cards

On Aug. 18, 2026, Portugal’s Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) clarified the renewal process for residence cards issued in paper format.  

The update provides procedural clarification that may help eligible foreign nationals avoid delays when renewing Portuguese residence documentation. 

New Renewal Instructions 

When entering a paper residence card number in the renewal portal: 

• Applicants should omit the leading zero from the card number. 
• For example, residence card number “011641” should be entered as “11641.”  

If Applicants Experience Issues 

Individuals unable to submit a renewal request after following the instructions should contact AIMA directly and provide: 

• Personal information 
• A copy of the paper residence card 
• Details regarding the submission issue  

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