In the previous issue, we discussed the process for renewing the Golden Residence Permit. Many clients have questions: now that they understand the process, what documents do they need to prepare for the renewal, and what are the associated costs? Today, we continue our report with insights from immigration lawyers in Portugal.
Question: What documents do clients need to provide when preparing for the renewal?
Lawyer: Clients need to provide a criminal record certificate, a copy of their passport, proof of residence for 7 days, and proof of economic dependency for adult children and parents. The law firm will assist clients in obtaining the criminal record certificate in Portugal, proof of continued investment, proof of no debt, and health insurance.
Question: What government and law firm fees related to the renewal do investors need to pay?
Lawyer: The main fees related to the renewal are:
1. €514.80, application fee for the main applicant; €80.20 per person, application fee for dependent applicants (immigration bureau fee)
2. €2574 per person, new card issuance fee (immigration bureau fee)
3. €500-1000 per family, renewal lawyer fee (charged by various law firms)
4. €150 per person, personal health insurance, generally a minimum of €150 per person (insurance company fee)
5. Other minor fees for renewal documents, such as the criminal record certificate in Portugal and proof of no debt, totaling no more than €100 (charged by the tax department and land registration department)
Question: Some clients have asked when they can schedule an appointment with the immigration bureau to collect personal identity information for the renewal (immigration bureau photo)? Clients want to go for fingerprinting soon, but there are still about six months until the card expiration date. Can they complete the appointment?
Lawyer: Generally, the immigration bureau allows appointments for collecting personal identity information within 3 months before the card expiration. If it is within 3-6 months, it is considered a special case but can also be arranged for an appointment. Appointments made more than 6 months in advance are not allowed. Therefore, it is generally recommended that clients schedule their identity collection appointment within 3 months before the card expiration, as this is the most secure option. If it is within 3-6 months in advance, they should first confirm with the lawyer whether an appointment can be made before finalizing their travel plans, as the immigration bureau may have stricter requirements at that time.
Question: A client asked if the card obtained after renewal is valid for 2 years, and since the immigration bureau requires Golden Residence Permit holders to reside in Portugal for 7 days each year, can they stay for 14 consecutive days to fulfill the 2-year residence requirement?
Lawyer: This situation meets the requirements. However, I would like to remind all investors that the Portuguese government's intention in setting residence requirements is to encourage everyone to spend more time in Portugal and to become familiar with the country in all aspects, including its history, nature, society, culture, and customs. This way, they can truly integrate into the Portuguese national family and fall in love with this beautiful country. Therefore, my advice is not to focus too much on the number of days of residence; the beauty of Portugal awaits discovery by our Chinese friends.
