AIMA is contacting CPLP (Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries) citizens to exchange expired residence permits. This update aligns CPLP permits with EU standards, fixing past issues like the lack of biometric data and restrictions on Schengen travel. About 220,000 people will be affected, so employers in Portugal should understand how this could impact their workforce.

Keep reading for a quick overview of the changes and the process your employees need to follow.

What’s Changing With The Permit Renewal Process? 

The renewal process addresses disparities between CPLP permits and other EU residence documents. Previously, CPLP permits:

• Were issued on A4 paper with basic security features
• Didn’t include biometric data
• Didn’t allow free movement in the Schengen Area

Now, CPLP permits will follow the EU’s uniform model, giving holders equal treatment and better mobility. This reform also ensures Portugal complies with EU regulations, avoiding potential infringement procedures related to migration policies.

Under the new system, CPLP residence permits will:

• Be issued as plastic cards with biometric security features
• Allow travel within the Schengen Area
• Have a validity of two to three years

Current paper permits will remain valid until they expire or until the holder receives an official renewal notice.

What Employers Should Know

New CPLP residence permits will now require a consular visa first, which might slow down the hiring process of employees.

To renew this permit, applicants may need to submit a criminal record check from their home country, apart from the usual documents required for the application.

The renewal fee is €56.80 until March 1, 2025.

Next Steps for CPLP Employees

CPLP residence permit holders will receive an email from AIMA with instructions on how to request an appointment, pay for the renewal, and share the relevant documents. A physical appointment will be granted after payment.

CPLP citizens who have a visa without an automatic appointment date for visa conversion can now request an appointment online through AIMA.

Employees should prepare:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Proof of employment or financial means
• Criminal record certificates from Portugal and their home country (if required)
• Tax and Social Security compliance verification

Conclusion

This renewal process is a big step toward better integration of CPLP citizens in Portugal. Employers should ensure their CPLP employees stay informed and complete renewals on time to avoid work disruptions.

For help with employee mobility solutions in Portugal, contact our local team.