AIMA has implemented new rules to process golden visa applications starting Jan 15, 2025 to efficiently streamline pending applications within 90 days, as part of governments commitment to clear backlog before June 30, 2025. Applications of Investors and their family members waiting, have the chance to re-upload and update expired documents.
The most important document is Criminal record document must be issued fresh within three months. AIMA will not process residence permit applications without this document.
To speed up processing of applications, AIMA has relaxed certain rules on submission of documents..
Online Services – Digital services available on the AIMA Portal for sending, receiving and paying for Residence Authorization (AR) applications, eliminating the need to schedule an appointment and visit one of the AIMA Stores. Third Country Nationals legally residing in Portugal who have children aged over 5 and under 15 in their household and who wish to request family reunification in Portugal may submit their application through a digital/online channel .
Criminal Certificates – AIMA has asked waiting applicants to re-upload expired documents especially the criminal record document (newly updated and certified) through their legal representative or at the portal. For example criminal record certificates, proof of investment, bank transfer receipt, property ownership extract, statement that you will maintain the investment for 5 years etc.. Children reached 16 years are now required to submit criminal record certificates (must be updated with AIMA)
Translation – No requirement to translate the document if the document original language is English, French, Spanish and Portuguese.
Missing documents – Missing documents can be uploaded at least one hour prior to the biometric appointment. During the time of appointment, you can carry only passport and application to your biometric appointment and make the payment. Non-certified documents must be presented in original during the appointment .
Biometrics – AIMA will be processing applications fully digitally until biometrics stage, you are required to pay the fees during the visit.
Decisions – AIMA will issue decisions within 90 days after biometrics, for old and new applications, if all documents are updated and in order. Newly submitted applications can expect quicker date for biometrics and approvals, with fresh set of documents.
Newly uploaded ARI residence permit applications have a chance to get processed faster, if validity of all documents in order.
New Portal – AIMA launches new portal for those who have Expressed Interest but were not invited. immigrants will be able to complete the entire process online, including the collection of biometrics in person. The entire procedure is expected to be quick and secure, in addition to allowing outdated documents to be updated. This will speed up AIMA’s decisions.
No Refusal – AIMA will not reject the document if uploaded within 90 days, even it is expired. Within 90 days documents must be uploaded for all family members to record biometrics all at once.
Payment of Fees – Fees will be paid at biometric appointments. Certified documents cost €6,045.20 per application, while uncertified documents cost €8,060.20. Cash not accepted, must only be paid via bank card.
According to local news reports, there are immigrants being called by AIMA upon appointment currently abroad and far away from home, have received notice of their appointment only one or two days in advance, which makes it difficult to organize themselves to present the required documentation (eg. criminal record certificates within 3 month validity), notify their employers or even travel to other cities within the stipulated timeframe. Many people waiting for residence permits for two, three years fear rejection of their applications for not providing enough time to organize themselves.
AIMA has claimed that 15% of 6000 scheduled appointments per day are vacant, as immigrants dont show up.
