The Portuguese government has reaffirmed its commitment to foreign residents and visa holders by announcing that all documents related to legal stay in the country, which expired on or after February 22, 2020, will remain valid until mid-2025. This measure ensures that affected individuals can continue their lives in Portugal without disruption, as the extended documents will be recognized by Portuguese public authorities for all legal purposes.
This regulation applies to a wide range of visa and residence permit holders, including residence permits (AR), CPLP residence permits, EU nationals’ registration certificates, residence cards for EU nationals and their family members, short-stay, temporary stay, and residence visas, as well as other relevant legal stay documents.
Under this directive, all public and private entities in Portugal must accept these extended visa documents. Institutions required to comply include the Employment and Vocational Training Institute (IEFP), the Social Security Institute (ISS), the Portuguese Tax Authority (AT), the National Health Service (SNS), local authorities such as city and parish councils, banks, and employers.
Foreign nationals affected by this ruling have the right to remain in Portugal legally and can exit and re-enter the country using these extended documents as proof of their legal status. This decision provides much-needed reassurance to those who have faced uncertainties due to pandemic-related backlogs and administrative delays.
Although the extension guarantees legal security within Portugal, authorities have clarified that it is strictly valid within the national territory. Travel to or movement within other Schengen states remains subject to the standard Schengen Borders Code, requiring individuals to comply with existing entry and visa regulations when crossing into other EU countries.
