EU Long-Term Resident Status
Long-term residents in Portugal who want EU-wide long-term resident status and mobility to other member states.
The EU Long-Term Resident Status is a Portuguese settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€220 AIMA fee) and processing time (~90 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the EU Long-Term Resident Status is for
Long-term residents in Portugal who want EU-wide long-term resident status and mobility to other member states.
An EU-level settled status; can be combined with the path to citizenship.
EU Long-Term Resident Status - eligibility criteria
- 5 years of legal, continuous residence
- Stable and regular resources
- Health insurance
- Basic Portuguese language (A2)
- Clean criminal record
EU Long-Term Resident Status cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the EU Long-Term Resident Status (Portugal) is ~€220 AIMA fee, with an indicative processing time of ~90 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At AIMA inside Portugal |
| Length of stay | Long-term (renewable, with intra-EU mobility rights) |
| Work rights | Full work rights, including easier access in other EU states |
| Study rights | Full study rights |
| Government fee | ~€220 AIMA fee |
| Processing time | ~90 days |
| Route to PR | An EU-level settled status; can be combined with the path to citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
An EU-level settled status; can be combined with the path to citizenship.
Many applicants also compare PR · Permanent Residence Permit, EU Blue Card · EU Blue Card (Portugal), Citizenship · Portuguese Citizenship by Naturalisation. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Portuguese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common EU Long-Term Resident Status pitfalls we fix
EU Long-Term Resident Status - frequently asked questions
How much does the EU Long-Term Resident Status cost?
The EU Long-Term Resident Status government fee is ~€220 AIMA fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the EU Long-Term Resident Status take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~90 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the EU Long-Term Resident Status lead to permanent residence?
An EU-level settled status; can be combined with the path to citizenship.
Can I work on the EU Long-Term Resident Status?
Work rights: Full work rights, including easier access in other EU states.
Who can apply for the EU Long-Term Resident Status?
Long-term residents in Portugal who want EU-wide long-term resident status and mobility to other member states.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Portugal government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- AIMA (Portugal) - official Portugal immigration authority