Immigration Glossary
Key terms and concepts for navigating Portugal's immigration system and AIMA residence card process.
AIMA
AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) is Portugal's immigration agency responsible for processing residence cards and permits.
AIMA Online Portal
The AIMA Online Portal allows applicants to submit and track residence card applications digitally, often with faster processing times.
Autorização de Residência
Autorização de Residência is the Portuguese term for residence permit, the legal document allowing non-EU citizens to live in Portugal.
Biometrics
Biometrics appointments at AIMA involve fingerprinting and photo capture for your Portugal residence card.
D7 Visa
The D7 Visa allows people with passive income (pensions, investments, rental income) to reside in Portugal.
Digital Nomad Visa
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) allows remote workers to live in Portugal while working for foreign companies.
Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa (ARI) is a residence-by-investment program offering residency to qualifying investors.
IRN
IRN (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado) is Portugal's registry and notary office, which also processes some residence-related appointments.
SEF
SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) was Portugal's former immigration service, replaced by AIMA in 2023.
Título de Residência
Título de Residência is the physical residence card issued by AIMA in Portugal, the final step in the immigration process.