Since the implementation of the Portugal Golden Residence Permit program in October 2012, Worldway has assisted hundreds of clients in investing and obtaining their Golden Residence Cards. In 2014, Worldway helped the first batch of long-term clients successfully process their renewals. In 2015, we will have more long-term clients renewing, and next year will undoubtedly be the "Renewal Year" for Worldway clients. To facilitate both new and existing clients in gaining a more detailed understanding of the renewal process, we have invited senior immigration law firm lawyers today to answer questions regarding immigration renewals and provide strong references for our clients.
Question: Why is it necessary to renew the Portugal Golden Residence Card?
Lawyer: Investors in the Portugal Golden Residence Program are issued a Golden Residence Card valid for one year upon completing their investment. After renewal, the validity period is two years, and after holding the Golden Residence Card for five years, one can apply for permanent residency in Portugal. This follows the "Portugal Golden Residence 1+2+2 model."
Question: How far in advance should one prepare for the renewal to avoid delays?
Lawyer: According to the Portuguese Immigration Law, applications for residence permit renewals must be submitted by the applicant (or their representative) to the immigration office 30 days before the residence card expires. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants begin preparing their materials 60 days before the expiration of the Golden Residence Card and complete the 7-day residency requirement and personal identity information collection with the immigration office 30 days in advance.
Question: Do both the main applicant and the dependent applicants need to reapply for the renewal of the Golden Residence Card?
Lawyer: The renewal of the Golden Residence Card is a completely new process, and both the main applicant and the dependent applicants must submit materials for review by the immigration office. Additionally, the validity of the dependent applicants' Golden Residence Cards is dependent on the main applicant; if the main applicant's card expires, the dependent applicants' cards will also automatically become invalid.
Question: Generally, what materials are required to provide proof of the 7-day residency?
Lawyer: Entry and exit records on the passport, flight ticket stubs, hotel invoices in Portugal, and invoices for expenses incurred during the stay in Portugal. Therefore, it is recommended that clients keep these receipts during their stay in Portugal.
Question: Please briefly introduce the renewal process for our investors.
Lawyer: First, prepare the renewal materials (criminal record clearance, flight tickets, proof of economic dependency, etc.) in your home country. Second, travel to Portugal to fulfill the 7-day residency requirement, and have the lawyer assist in preparing other renewal materials. Third, pay for health insurance, application fees, and residence card fees. Finally, upon approval of the renewal, the immigration office will issue a new card.
Question: How long does it generally take for the immigration office to approve the renewal application?
Lawyer: Generally, it takes 3-8 weeks for the immigration office to respond.
After the detailed answers from the senior immigration lawyer in Portugal, we believe that all investors now have a preliminary understanding of the renewal of the Portugal Golden Residence Card. If you have any further questions regarding renewals or other property investment immigration-related inquiries, please consult the Worldway hotline: 400-138-2929.
