21 Oct End of Automatic Extensions and AIMA Clarification — Residence Permit Renewals

The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA, I.P.) has announced the end of automatic extensions of Residence Permits, marking the conclusion of an exceptional measure adopted during the pandemic.

End of Automatic Extensions

As of 15 October 2025, expired Residence Permits will no longer be valid if the holder has not initiated the renewal process.

This marks the end of the practice, in place since 2020, of automatic renewals by decree, without prior verification of eligibility requirements.

Simplified Renewal Through the New Digital Portals

Foreign citizens can now renew their Residence Permits online, without the need to visit AIMA service offices, provided they meet the applicable requirements.

Once the renewal request is registered and the respective fees are paid, a confirmation receipt valid for 180 days is issued.

For Residence Permits for Investment (ARI / Golden Visa), applications must be submitted via a dedicated online platform, and the request must be made through a legal representative. The AIMA email confirming the scheduling request serves as proof of submission.

Please note that the online platform is currently only accepting applications from investors, and it is not yet possible to renew residence permits for family members. Once renewals for dependents become available, we will proceed accordingly.

Clarification on the Validity of Residence Rights After Card Expiry

AIMA has further clarified that the right of residence of a foreign citizen remains valid for up to six months after the expiry date of their Residence Permit card, in accordance with Article 63(14) of Regulatory Decree No. 84/2007.

Reference Dates

• For cards expired on or before 30 June 2025, the six-month period begins on 15 October 2025, meaning the right of residence remains valid until 15 April 2026.
• For cards expiring after 30 June 2025, the six-month period begins on the card’s expiry date.

For Those Who Have Already Submitted a Renewal Request

Foreign citizens who have already initiated the renewal process with AIMA must keep:

• their expired Residence Permit card.
• the proof of submission, both of which remain valid while the renewal process is under review.