How do I get my AIMA residence permit after the D8 visa?
Updated · AIMA, NIF & bank guide · Not legal advice
Enter Portugal on your D8 residence visa, then apply to AIMA for a residence permit while the visa is still valid (4 months, two entries). The first permit is generally issued for 2 years and renewed for 3-year periods, as long as you still meet the conditions; check AIMA's current document list and fees before your appointment.
| Document | Note |
|---|---|
| Passport with D8 residence visa | Original |
| Proof of income / remote work | Updated payslips or invoices |
| Proof of accommodation | Lease, ideally registered |
| NIF | How to get one |
| Health cover / SNS registration | As requested |
| Criminal record consent or certificate | AIMA may check Portuguese records itself |
Renewals and long-term status
Renewals look at the same things: still working remotely, still earning enough, still living in Portugal. After five years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence; for citizenship, see the timeline.
Quick answers
- How do I get a residence permit after the D8 visa?
- Apply to AIMA while your residence visa is valid; bring passport, income, accommodation and NIF proof.
- How long is the D8 residence permit?
- Generally 2 years first, then 3-year renewals. Confirm on aima.gov.pt.
- Can I travel while the permit is pending?
- Ask AIMA what proof you need; leaving without valid status can cause problems re-entering.
What to do next
Haven't filed yet? The free D8 check builds a checklist that already includes NIF, accommodation and the AIMA step. Our $599 review checks the whole file before you submit.
Start the free D8 checkSources
- AIMA: Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum
- MNE (Vistos): types of national visa
- Diário da República (official gazette: Law 23/2007, Law 18/2022, minimum wage decree)
Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.