Biometrics Appointment Portugal | AIMA Residence Permit Process | Visas.pt

After arriving in Portugal on a long-stay visa (D7, D8, D2, or other), you must attend an in-person biometrics appointment at an AIMA regional office. At this appointment, AIMA records your fingerprints and takes a photograph. These are used to produce your Cartão de Autorização de Residência (residence permit card).

What to bring to your biometrics appointment:

• Valid passport
• Original long-stay visa (or proof of legal entry)
• Proof of address in Portugal (rental contract or property ownership)
• NIF number document
• Any supporting documents specified in your appointment confirmation

After the appointment, AIMA processes your residence permit card. You do not receive the card on the day — it is produced and sent separately, with processing times currently ranging from 2–8 months depending on your regional office.

If your visa stamp expires before your card arrives (which is common given AIMA processing times), you should obtain an AIMA Agendamento letter confirming your biometrics appointment is completed. This letter is accepted by Portuguese border authorities as evidence of legal status during the wait.