The Applicants of the Portugal Golden Visa got an update on their applications that were pending Golden Visa applications under review by AIMA (Portugal’s Immigration Office). They realized that their status changed to awaiting submission from under review.
AIMA directly communicated with the Golden Visa applicants to inform them that the Golden Visa application process is experiencing significant changes. The goal here is to streamline the application procedure.
The application process was updated with a more digital and chronological approach. So, they prioritized older applications and introduced mandatory electronic submissions.
Now, AIMA wants to be sure that only active processes with applicants who are still interested in getting a Golden Visa move forward in the system. It is a kind of measure to identify and close applications that have been abondoned for some reason and have not been carried on by the investors themselves. It might be the ones who have not completed their biometric appointment.
This is a big move to redefine procedures and request document updates to eventually optimize the administrative and procedural resources in order to avoid a backlog of inactive applications waiting in the system.
- What are the new requirements for digital submissions?
Applicants need to now upload all required documents electronically through the ARI portal. These documents are expected to adhere to certain certification and translation guidelines, ensuring authenticity and accuracy. - How will biometric appointments be scheduled under the new process?
Beginning January 15, 2025, biometric appointments will be booked automatically based on application upgrades. These appointments will be location-specific, with applicants receiving notification between 30 and 90 days in advance. Those who are unable to attend must provide appropriate reasons, and rescheduling is limited to the second half of 2025.
- What are the changes for the fee payment procedures?
Fees for residence permits will now be collected during biometric appointments. Certified document submissions will incur a €6,045.20 fee per application, whilst uncertified materials will incur a higher fee of €8,060.20. Payments will only be taken by card, and applicants must ensure funds and authorization for foreign transactions in advance.
Consequences of Inaction for Pending Portugal Golden Visa Applicants
Applicants with pending Portugal Golden Visa cases who did not become active within six months are the ones who risk having their applications marked as abandoned. This means they would need to reapply under updated rules. If you want to avoid this, updating required documentation, communicating with your legal representative to comply with new requirements, and staying informed about your appointment schedules will help you.
What’s the Future Ahead for Portugal Golden Visa Applicants?
AIMA balances efficiency with compliance in the Portugal Golden Visa Program, as we understand from the latest procedural updates. The new changes will pave the way for a faster and more transparent system with modern administrative standards.