Frequently Asked Questions

Based on 156 reports with timing data, the median processing time is ~3 months. Most applicants receive their card within 30 to 150 days. However, processing times vary significantly depending on visa type, application channel, and whether it's an initial application or renewal.

Yes, based on our data the online portal has a median processing time of 32 days (13–63 day range). In-person AIMA appointments tend to take longer. We recommend using the online portal when available for your application type.

Based on 9 reports, Digital Nomad visa processing takes a median of ~3 months, with most applicants waiting 60 to 180 days. See detailed data on our Digital Nomad processing times page.

Golden Visa processing has a median of ~4 months based on 16 reports. The range is 49 to 188 days. Golden Visas historically had very long processing times, but recent reports suggest improvement. See our Golden Visa page for details.

Initial applications have a median of 60 days while renewals take a median of ~3 months. Initial applications tend to be processed faster, though this varies by channel and visa type.

Our data comes from three sources: publicly available timeline reports shared on Reddit (r/PortugalExpats, r/portugal), the Nomad Gate community forum, and direct submissions from people who have been through the AIMA process. Each report includes a confidence level based on the specificity of dates provided.

Our estimates are based on 417 community reports. They represent real experiences but are not official AIMA data. Processing times change as AIMA reforms its systems, so recent reports are weighted more heavily in our analysis. Individual experiences may vary.