According to Law No. 37/2006, of August 9, nationals of all European Union (EU) countries who move to or reside in Portugal, as well as family members accompanying or joining them, regardless of their nationality, have the right to enter, stay and reside in Portugal.
The residence card, which formalizes the right of residence in Portugal, can be requested by the family member, who is a national of a third State, of citizens of countries of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland, if he/she is: the spouse; a descendant up to 21 years of age; a descendant over 21 years of age who is a dependant of the holder of the right; and a dependent ascendant of the holder of the right.
The request is made by previously appointing a time for submitting the documents to the regional directorate or delegation of the Foreigners and Borders Service in the area of residence, within 30 days after three months of entering national territory.
The residence card is issued within three months of submission of the request and is valid for five years from the date of issue, or for the planned period of residence of the Union citizen, if this period is less than five years.
Nationality Department
Ana Santos Fontes | Maria Moura Fonseca | Ana Luíza Fronczak
