Policy Changes Portugal

Portugal keeps expired residence permits valid until April 15

Brandon Richards
Brandon Richards ·
Verified · 15 sources· Updated May 7, 2026
Portugal keeps expired residence permits valid until April 15

AIMA keeps expired permits valid through April 15

Portugal’s immigration agency, AIMA, says residence permits that expired on or before June 30, 2025 stay valid for legal residence and work until April 15, 2026. The transitional measure covers the whole country and binds tax offices, social security and employers, though it may not be enough for Schengen travel.

Renewals have largely moved online through AIMA’s portal, with appointments handled in phases by expiry month. In-person card collection still costs €28.50.

Expats with foreign income still face the IRS window

Portugal’s IRS filing period for 2025 income runs from April 1 to June 30, 2026. Tax due must be paid by Aug. 31, 2026.

Many returns are pre-filled, but expats with foreign income or NHR status often need to file the full Modelo 3 form. If documents are missing, taxpayers can request extra time before the deadline.

Airport queues and next steps for nomads

The EU’s Entry/Exit System is still causing delays for non-EU travelers at Lisbon, Porto and Faro airports, with biometric checks creating long queues during the rollout. The system collects data automatically at the border, so travelers don't need to apply in advance.

Nomads and other permit holders should check that their residence papers are current before travel and expect slower processing at airports. For wider Portugal planning, see our visa updates and the Portugal guide for the complete picture.

Frequently asked questions

How long are expired Portugal residence permits valid?
Residence permits that expired on or before June 30, 2025 remain valid until April 15, 2026 for legal residence and work. The measure applies across Portugal and binds tax offices, social security and employers.
Can I use an expired Portugal residence permit for Schengen travel?
Not necessarily. The transitional measure may not be enough for Schengen travel, even though the permit remains valid in Portugal.
How do I renew a Portugal residence permit?
Most renewals now happen online through AIMA's portal. Appointments are handled in phases by expiry month.
How much does in-person card collection cost in Portugal?
In-person card collection costs €28.50. The source text does not give any other collection fees.
When is the IRS filing deadline in Portugal for 2025 income?
The IRS filing period for 2025 income runs from April 1 to June 30, 2026. Tax due must be paid by Aug. 31, 2026.
Do expats with foreign income need to file a full Modelo 3 form in Portugal?
Often, yes. Expats with foreign income or NHR status often need to file the full Modelo 3 form, even though many returns are pre-filled.
Will Portugal airport border checks be slower for non-EU travelers?
Yes. Lisbon, Porto and Faro airports are seeing delays during the rollout of the EU's Entry/Exit System, with biometric checks creating long queues.

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