In Portugal, a visa and a residence permit are distinct documents, both essential for foreigners who wish to enter and stay in the country for extended periods
Difference Between a Visa and a Residence Permit
The visa is a document issued by the Portuguese consulate in the applicant's home country, allowing temporary entry and stay in Portugal for a specific period. There are various types of visas, such as tourism, study, work, and residence visas. The latter is granted to those who intend to establish residence in the country and serves as a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit.
The long-term visas, regulated by national legislation, can be for temporary stay or for obtaining a residence permit, depending on the length of stay. These allow the holder to stay in Portugal for reasons such as study, internship, work, and medical treatment, among others. A new visa type also allows foreigners to travel to Portugal to seek employment.
The temporary stay visa allows entry for stays of less than one year. It is valid for the duration of the stay and for multiple entries into national territory.
The visa for obtaining a residence permit is valid for two entries and for four months, during which the holder must apply for a residence permit from the Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA).
The job-seeking visa allows its holder to enter and remain in Portugal for the purpose of looking for work, authorizing them to engage in dependent employment until the visa expires or until a residence permit is granted.
The residence permit, on the other hand, is issued in Portugal and grants foreigners the right to live in the country for a longer period. The first residence permit is generally valid for two years and can be renewed for successive three-year periods. After five years of legal residence, it is possible to apply for permanent residence or even Portuguese nationality, provided that the legal requirements are met.
What is AIMA?
The Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA) is the entity responsible for handling immigration processes in Portugal. Created to replace the former Immigration and Borders Service (SEF), AIMA aims to modernize and improve the management of immigrant regularization processes, as well as the granting of residence permits.
Additionally, the agency seeks to facilitate the integration of foreigners into Portuguese society and streamline administrative procedures related to immigration.
Thus, for those wishing to live in Portugal, it is essential to understand the need to obtain the appropriate visa before arriving in the country and later apply for a residence permit with AIMA to ensure a legal stay in Portuguese territory.