{"id":14874,"date":"2026-11-10T22:28:45","date_gmt":"2026-11-10T22:28:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novomove.com\/visa-expires-before-aima-appointment\/"},"modified":"2026-11-10T22:28:45","modified_gmt":"2026-11-10T22:28:45","slug":"visa-expires-before-aima-appointment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novomove.com\/pt\/visa-expires-before-aima-appointment\/","title":{"rendered":"Your visa expires before your AIMA appointment: can you stay, and can you travel?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your residence visa lasts <strong>four months<\/strong>. In recent files we analysed, the AIMA appointment came <strong>7 to 9 months after the visa was approved<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That usually leaves a gap of several months. And then something comes up abroad: a wedding, a parent who&#8217;s ill, Christmas at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s one of the questions we hear most, from our own clients and in expat forums. In our partner immigration lawyer&#8217;s experience, it&#8217;s also the worry that comes up first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two questions here. <em>&#8220;Am I illegal once the visa runs out?&#8221;<\/em> and <em>&#8220;If I fly home, will they let me back in?&#8221;<\/em> Below is what the law says on each, and what we see on client files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-sum\">\n<style>\n.nm-sum,.nm-flow,.nm-qs,.nm-dep,.nm-cost,.nm-stg{font-family:inherit;margin:34px 0 38px;}\n.nm-sum{background:#FFFBF0;border:1px solid #F2E6BE;border-left:5px solid #F5C518;border-radius:0 18px 18px 0;padding:24px 28px;}\n.nm-k{font-size:12.5px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.1em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#8a6d00;margin:0 0 14px;}\n.nm-sum ul,.nm-qs ol{margin:0;padding:0;list-style:none;}\n.nm-sum li{position:relative;padding-left:26px;margin:0 0 11px;font-size:16.5px;line-height:1.55;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-sum li:last-child{margin-bottom:0;}\n.nm-sum li:before{content:\"\";position:absolute;left:4px;top:9px;width:8px;height:8px;border-radius:50%;background:#F5C518;}\n.nm-flow{position:relative;padding-left:4px;}\n.nm-fs{display:grid;grid-template-columns:44px 1fr;gap:0 18px;position:relative;padding-bottom:26px;}\n.nm-fs:last-child{padding-bottom:0;}\n.nm-fs:not(:last-child):after{content:\"\";position:absolute;left:21px;top:46px;bottom:4px;width:2px;background:#E3E7EF;}\n.nm-fn{width:44px;height:44px;border-radius:50%;background:#1B2A4A;color:#F5C518;font-weight:700;font-size:18px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;}\n.nm-ft{font-size:17.5px;font-weight:700;color:#1B2A4A;margin:9px 0 5px;line-height:1.35;}\n.nm-fd{font-size:16px;line-height:1.6;color:#3d4c6b;margin:0 0 9px;}\n.nm-chip{display:inline-block;font-size:13.5px;font-weight:600;padding:5px 12px;border-radius:999px;background:#F4F6FA;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-chip.g{background:#FFFBF0;border-color:#F2E6BE;color:#8a6d00;}\n.nm-qs{background:#F4F6FA;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:18px;padding:24px 28px;}\n.nm-qs .nm-k{color:#5a6b8c;}\n.nm-qs li{display:grid;grid-template-columns:30px 1fr;gap:12px;margin:0 0 14px;font-size:16.5px;line-height:1.5;color:#1B2A4A;font-weight:600;}\n.nm-qs li:last-child{margin-bottom:0;}\n.nm-qs li span{width:30px;height:30px;border-radius:8px;background:#fff;border:1px solid #C9D0DC;color:#00B67A;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;font-weight:700;}\n.nm-dep{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:16px;}\n.nm-dc{border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:16px;padding:20px 22px;background:#fff;}\n.nm-dc.y{background:#1B2A4A;border-color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-dc h4{margin:0 0 4px;font-size:18px;color:#1B2A4A;font-family:inherit;}\n.nm-dc.y h4{color:#fff;}\n.nm-dc .w{font-size:13px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.06em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#5a6b8c;margin:0 0 12px;}\n.nm-dc.y .w{color:#F5C518;}\n.nm-dc p{font-size:15.5px;line-height:1.55;margin:0;color:#3d4c6b;}\n.nm-dc.y p{color:rgba(255,255,255,.85);}\n.nm-cost{border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:18px;overflow:hidden;}\n.nm-cost .nm-ch{background:#1B2A4A;color:#fff;padding:18px 24px;font-weight:700;font-size:17px;}\n.nm-cost .nm-ch span{color:#F5C518;}\n.nm-cg{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(4,1fr);}\n.nm-ci{padding:20px 22px;border-right:1px solid #E3E7EF;}\n.nm-ci:last-child{border-right:0;}\n.nm-ci .v{font-size:24px;font-weight:700;color:#1B2A4A;line-height:1.2;}\n.nm-ci .l{font-size:14px;line-height:1.45;color:#5a6b8c;margin-top:6px;}\n.nm-stg{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(5,1fr);gap:10px;counter-reset:s;}\n.nm-sg{background:#F4F6FA;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:14px;padding:16px 14px;position:relative;}\n.nm-sg:before{counter-increment:s;content:counter(s);display:flex;width:30px;height:30px;border-radius:50%;background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A;font-weight:700;align-items:center;justify-content:center;margin-bottom:10px;}\n.nm-sg b{display:block;font-size:15.5px;color:#1B2A4A;line-height:1.35;margin-bottom:4px;}\n.nm-sg small{font-size:13.5px;line-height:1.45;color:#5a6b8c;display:block;}\n.nm-stg-note{grid-column:1\/-1;font-size:14.5px;color:#5a6b8c;margin-top:4px;}\n.nm-flow p,.nm-qs p,.nm-sum p,.nm-dc p,.nm-cost p{margin-top:0!important;}\n.nm-flow .nm-ft{margin:9px 0 4px!important;}\n.nm-flow .nm-fd{margin:0 0 8px!important;}\n.entry-content ul.wp-block-list,.entry-content ol.wp-block-list{margin:6px 0 26px;padding-left:22px;}\n.entry-content ul.wp-block-list li,.entry-content ol.wp-block-list li{font-size:17px;line-height:1.6;margin:0 0 10px;padding-left:4px;}\n.entry-content ul.wp-block-list li::marker{color:#F5C518;}\n@media(max-width:820px){.nm-dep,.nm-cg{grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr!important;}.nm-stg{grid-template-columns:1fr!important;}.nm-ci:nth-child(2){border-right:0;}.nm-ci:nth-child(-n+2){border-bottom:1px solid #E3E7EF;}}\n@media(max-width:560px){.nm-dep,.nm-cg{grid-template-columns:1fr!important;}.nm-ci{border-right:0!important;border-bottom:1px solid #E3E7EF;}.nm-ci:last-child{border-bottom:0;}.nm-sum,.nm-qs{padding:20px;}}\n<\/style>\n<p class=\"nm-k\">The short version<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Nothing extends your visa automatically.<\/strong> The last blanket extension that covered visas ended on 30 June 2025.<\/li>\n<li>To stay on lawfully, ask AIMA for an <strong>extension of stay<\/strong>, and ask <strong>before your visa runs out<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>While your visa is valid, you can travel.<\/strong> It gives you two entries into Portugal.<\/li>\n<li>Once it has expired, <strong>nothing you hold is on the EU&#8217;s list of Portuguese residence documents<\/strong>. That includes AIMA&#8217;s receipt, your appointment email and an extension sticker.<\/li>\n<li>Our partner immigration lawyer&#8217;s advice: <strong>stay in Portugal until you have your residence card<\/strong>, unless you have to go.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d like someone to check your file before the appointment, our <a href=\"\/aima-appointment-support\/\">AIMA appointment support<\/a> covers that: a route-specific checklist, a written review by a partner Portuguese lawyer and a prep call. You book the appointment. We help you turn up with the right file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<style>\n.nm-toc{font-family:inherit;margin:30px 0 8px;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-left:4px solid #1B2A4A;border-radius:16px;background:#fff;}\n.nm-toc summary{list-style:none;cursor:pointer;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:12px;padding:16px 22px;font-weight:700;font-size:16.5px;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-toc summary::-webkit-details-marker{display:none;}\n.nm-toc summary small{font-weight:600;font-size:13.5px;color:#5a6b8c;margin:0 auto 0 4px;}\n.nm-toc summary::after{content:\"\";width:9px;height:9px;border-right:2px solid #1B2A4A;border-bottom:2px solid #1B2A4A;transform:rotate(45deg);margin:-4px 4px 0 0;transition:transform .2s;flex:none;}\n.nm-toc[open] summary::after{transform:rotate(-135deg);margin-top:4px;}\n.nm-toc:not([open]) ol{display:none !important;}\n.nm-toc ol{margin:0 !important;padding:16px 22px 8px 44px !important;columns:2;column-gap:36px;border-top:1px solid #E3E7EF;}\n.nm-toc li{break-inside:avoid;margin:0 0 10px !important;font-size:15px;line-height:1.45;color:#5a6b8c;}\n.nm-toc li::marker{color:#C9A10C;font-weight:700;}\n.nm-toc a{color:#1B2A4A;text-decoration:none;}\n.nm-toc a:hover{text-decoration:underline;text-underline-offset:3px;}\n.entry-content h2[id]{scroll-margin-top:110px;}\n@media(max-width:820px){.nm-toc ol{columns:1;}}\n<\/style>\n<details class=\"nm-toc\">\n<summary>In this guide<small>7 sections<\/small><\/summary>\n<ol><li><a href=\"#can-you-stay-in-portugal-after-your-visa-expires\">Can you stay in Portugal after your visa expires?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-does-your-visa-let-you-do-while-it-s-still-valid\">What does your visa let you do while it&#x27;s still valid?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#can-you-travel-once-your-visa-has-expired\">Can you travel once your visa has expired?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-if-you-really-have-to-travel\">What if you really have to travel?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#is-it-different-if-you-re-renewing-a-residence-card\">Is it different if you&#x27;re renewing a residence card?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-should-you-do-while-you-wait\">What should you do while you wait?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#should-you-get-help-with-this\">Should you get help with this?<\/a><\/li><\/ol>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"can-you-stay-in-portugal-after-your-visa-expires\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can you stay in Portugal after your visa expires?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Yes, with an extension of stay from AIMA.<\/strong> Nothing extends your visa on its own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Portugal&#8217;s immigration law says the residence visa lets you <strong>enter Portugal so you can apply for a residence permit<\/strong>, and lets you stay for <strong>four months<\/strong>.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a few years, blanket decrees kept expired visas and permits valid. That ended in stages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Visas were covered until 30 June 2025<\/strong> by a 2024 government decree.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-2\">[2]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The 2025 decree that replaced it covers residence permits only.<\/strong> Visas aren&#8217;t mentioned.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-3\">[3]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>On 15 October 2025, AIMA announced the end of automatic extensions<\/strong> altogether.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-4\">[4]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So if your visa ends in the coming months, there&#8217;s no general rule to fall back on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-mf\" role=\"list\" aria-label=\"The dates that matter while you wait for AIMA\">\n<style>\n.nm-mf{background:#1B2A4A;border-radius:20px;padding:30px 28px 26px;margin:30px 0 36px;font-family:inherit;display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(5,1fr);gap:14px;position:relative;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-k{grid-column:1\/-1;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.1em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#F5C518;margin:0 0 6px!important;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-s{background:rgba(255,255,255,.06);border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.14);border-radius:16px;padding:20px 16px 18px;position:relative;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-s:not(:nth-last-child(2)):after{content:\"\u2192\";position:absolute;right:-13px;top:50%;transform:translateY(-50%);width:24px;height:24px;border-radius:50%;background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A;font-weight:700;font-size:14px;line-height:24px;text-align:center;z-index:2;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-n{display:flex;width:36px;height:36px;border-radius:50%;background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A;font-weight:700;font-size:17px;align-items:center;justify-content:center;margin-bottom:14px;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-t{font-size:17.5px;line-height:1.35;font-weight:700;color:#fff;margin:0!important;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-c{grid-column:1\/-1;font-size:14px;color:rgba(255,255,255,.7);margin:8px 0 0!important;}\n@media(max-width:900px){.nm-mf{grid-template-columns:1fr!important;gap:16px;padding:24px 20px;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-s{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:14px;padding:16px;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-n{margin:0;flex:0 0 36px;}\n.nm-mf .nm-mf-s:not(:nth-last-child(2)):after{content:\"\u2193\";right:auto;left:50%;top:auto;bottom:-20px;transform:translateX(-50%);}}\n<\/style>\n<p class=\"nm-mf-k\">The dates that matter<\/p>\n<div class=\"nm-mf-s\" role=\"listitem\"><span class=\"nm-mf-n\">1<\/span><p class=\"nm-mf-t\">Your visa is approved<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-mf-s\" role=\"listitem\"><span class=\"nm-mf-n\">2<\/span><p class=\"nm-mf-t\">You arrive in Portugal (entry 1 of 2)<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-mf-s\" role=\"listitem\"><span class=\"nm-mf-n\">3<\/span><p class=\"nm-mf-t\">You ask AIMA for an extension of stay<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-mf-s\" role=\"listitem\"><span class=\"nm-mf-n\">4<\/span><p class=\"nm-mf-t\">Your visa ends, 4 months after it starts<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-mf-s\" role=\"listitem\"><span class=\"nm-mf-n\">5<\/span><p class=\"nm-mf-t\">Your AIMA appointment, often 7 to 9 months after approval<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"nm-mf-c\">The appointment gap comes from recent files we analysed. Ask for the extension before step 4, not after it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"isn-t-my-appointment-enough\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;Isn&#8217;t my appointment enough?&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No official text says an appointment keeps your stay lawful once the visa has ended.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your appointment does show you&#8217;re on the residence-permit path, and that matters in practice. On our client files, people who entered on a valid residence visa, and whose appointment was booked or requested while the visa was still valid, wait for that appointment in Portugal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The law&#8217;s answer for the gap is an extension of stay.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-does-the-extension-of-stay-cover-and-when-do-you-ask\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does the extension of stay cover, and when do you ask?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It extends the time you&#8217;re authorised to stay in Portugal after your visa ends. Here&#8217;s what the law and AIMA say about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Up to 90 days<\/strong> for someone holding a residence visa.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It can run past 90 days while a residence application is pending.<\/strong> The law allows longer extensions in that situation.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It&#8217;s a sticker in your passport.<\/strong><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You book it through AIMA&#8217;s online contact form<\/strong>, choosing the subject <strong>&#8220;Vistos&#8221;<\/strong>, with copies of your passport and your visa.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-5\">[5]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The fee:<\/strong> AIMA&#8217;s fee table lists <strong>\u20ac79.50 online or \u20ac106.10 in person<\/strong> for this extension.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-6\">[6]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-cost\">\n<div class=\"nm-ch\">The extension of stay, <span>for residence-visa holders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-cg\">\n<div class=\"nm-ci\"><div class=\"v\">90 days<\/div><div class=\"l\">the usual maximum<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-ci\"><div class=\"v\">Longer<\/div><div class=\"l\">while your residence application is pending<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-ci\"><div class=\"v\">\u20ac79.50<\/div><div class=\"l\">AIMA&#8217;s fee online (\u20ac106.10 in person)<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-ci\"><div class=\"v\">30 days<\/div><div class=\"l\">after your stay ends, late requests are usually refused<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ask before your visa runs out.<\/strong> Put the visa&#8217;s end date in your diary now, and send the request well before it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your appointment is only a week or two after your visa ends, the right step depends on your exact dates. Get advice on them before you pay anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-if-my-visa-has-already-expired\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;What if my visa has already expired?&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ask straight away.<\/strong> The law says a request filed <strong>more than 30 days after your authorised stay ends<\/strong> isn&#8217;t granted, except in exceptional circumstances.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re inside that 30-day window, you can still ask. If you&#8217;re past it, you need individual advice on your dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Staying past your authorised stay is an administrative offence in Portugal. The fines rise with time:<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>How long past your authorised stay<\/th><th>Fine<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Up to 30 days<\/td><td>\u20ac80 to \u20ac160<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>31 to 90 days<\/td><td>\u20ac160 to \u20ac320<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>91 to 180 days<\/td><td>\u20ac320 to \u20ac500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>More than 180 days<\/td><td>\u20ac500 to \u20ac700<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same fine applies if the overstay is found when you leave the country.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup> So the extension matters even if no police officer ever asks to see your papers while you wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-does-your-visa-let-you-do-while-it-s-still-valid\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does your visa let you do while it&#8217;s still valid?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It lets you enter Portugal twice.<\/strong> Portugal&#8217;s immigration law says the residence visa is valid for two entries and a four-month stay.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first arrival uses one of those entries. That leaves one more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So if you know you&#8217;ll need to travel, do it before your visa expires. A trip home in month two, back in month three, carries far less risk than the same trip in month six.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check two things before you book:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The return date is inside the visa&#8217;s validity.<\/strong> Leave a few days of margin for cancelled flights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You still have an entry left.<\/strong> Count how many times you&#8217;ve already entered Portugal on this visa.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"can-you-travel-once-your-visa-has-expired\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can you travel once your visa has expired?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"573\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport-1024x573.jpg\" alt=\"A man with a carry-on suitcase in a bright airport departure hall, checking his passport and a printed sheet of paper\" class=\"wp-image-14873\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novomove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport-1024x573.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novomove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novomove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport-768x430.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novomove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport-18x10.jpg 18w, https:\/\/novomove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/visa-expiry-aima-airport.jpg 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Illustrative image.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You can leave. Coming back is the risk.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing stops you leaving Portugal, though an overstay can be fined on the way out. The hard part is the return: first at airline check-in, then at the border.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"why-the-papers-you-hold-don-t-count-at-the-border\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why the papers you hold don&#8217;t count at the border<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The EU&#8217;s border rules work from a set list of Portuguese residence documents<\/strong>, and none of the papers you hold while waiting is on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>AIMA says it in writing.<\/strong> Its receipt for a first residence-permit application <strong>isn&#8217;t a travel document<\/strong> and can&#8217;t be used to move around other Schengen countries.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-7\">[7]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The EU&#8217;s border rules exclude temporary papers<\/strong> issued while a first residence application is being examined. They don&#8217;t count as a residence permit.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-8\">[8]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Portugal&#8217;s entry on the EU list of residence documents<\/strong> includes the <strong>residence card<\/strong> and EU-family cards. It lists <strong>no receipt and no extension sticker<\/strong>.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-9\">[9]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your appointment email<\/strong> isn&#8217;t on the list either.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&#8217;s one exception inside Portugal&#8217;s own law. It says a <strong>valid extension of stay lets you enter Portugal without a visa<\/strong>.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That helps at a Portuguese border. The extension isn&#8217;t on the EU list, though, so other Schengen countries, and airlines checking your documents, aren&#8217;t bound by Portugal&#8217;s rule.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-9\">[9]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A letter from us, or from any adviser, carries no legal weight at a border either.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-acc\" role=\"figure\" aria-label=\"Which papers count when you come back into Portugal\">\n<style>\n.nm-acc{margin:28px 0;font-family:inherit;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);gap:16px;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-card{background:#F4F6FA;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:16px;padding:20px 20px 18px;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-card.nm-acc-both{background:#1B2A4A;border-color:#1B2A4A;color:#fff;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-tag{display:inline-block;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.06em;text-transform:uppercase;padding:5px 11px;border-radius:999px;background:#E3E7EF;color:#1B2A4A;margin:0 0 12px;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-both .nm-acc-tag{background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-acc h4{font-size:19px;line-height:1.3;margin:0 0 6px;color:#1B2A4A;font-family:inherit;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-both h4{color:#fff;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-holds{font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:0 0 12px;color:#5a6b8c;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-both .nm-acc-holds{color:rgba(255,255,255,.8);}\n.nm-acc ul{list-style:none;margin:0;padding:0;}\n.nm-acc li{font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:0 0 7px;padding-left:26px;position:relative;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-both li{color:#fff;}\n.nm-acc li:before{position:absolute;left:0;top:0;font-weight:700;}\n.nm-acc li.y:before{content:\"\u2713\";color:#00B67A;}\n.nm-acc li.n:before{content:\"\u2715\";color:#C0392B;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-both li.y:before{color:#F5C518;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-flow{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;gap:8px;margin:18px 0 0;padding:16px 18px;border:1px dashed #C9D0DC;border-radius:14px;font-size:14.5px;line-height:1.4;color:#1B2A4A;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-step{background:#fff;border:1px solid #E3E7EF;border-radius:10px;padding:7px 11px;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-arrow{color:#F5C518;font-weight:700;}\n.nm-acc .nm-acc-cap{font-size:13.5px;color:#5a6b8c;margin:10px 0 0;}\n@media(max-width:820px){.nm-acc .nm-acc-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr!important;}}\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"nm-acc-grid\">\n<div class=\"nm-acc-card nm-acc-both\">\n<span class=\"nm-acc-tag\">Counts at the border<\/span>\n<h4>Your residence card<\/h4>\n<p class=\"nm-acc-holds\">On the EU&#8217;s list of Portuguese residence documents.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"y\">You can re-enter Portugal with it<\/li>\n<li class=\"y\">Other Schengen countries recognise it<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-acc-card\">\n<span class=\"nm-acc-tag\">Portugal only<\/span>\n<h4>An extension of stay sticker<\/h4>\n<p class=\"nm-acc-holds\">Recognised by Portugal&#8217;s own law.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"y\">It lets you enter Portugal without a visa<\/li>\n<li class=\"n\">It isn&#8217;t on the EU&#8217;s list<\/li>\n<li class=\"n\">Other countries and airlines don&#8217;t have to accept it<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-acc-card\">\n<span class=\"nm-acc-tag\">Not a travel document<\/span>\n<h4>Your AIMA receipt or appointment email<\/h4>\n<p class=\"nm-acc-holds\">Proof that you&#8217;re waiting for AIMA.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"y\">It shows your file exists<\/li>\n<li class=\"n\">AIMA says the receipt isn&#8217;t a travel document<\/li>\n<li class=\"n\">Neither is on the EU&#8217;s list<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"nm-acc-cap\">Based on AIMA&#8217;s FAQ, Portugal&#8217;s immigration law and the EU&#8217;s list of residence documents (sources 1, 7 and 9).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"if-your-passport-needs-a-schengen-visa\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">If your passport needs a Schengen visa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Once your residence visa expires, you have no visa and no listed residence document to re-enter with.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People with these passports get into the Schengen area with a visa, a long-stay visa or a valid residence permit.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-8\">[8]<\/a><\/sup> After the residence visa ends, you hold none of those. A valid extension of stay is the only paper Portugal&#8217;s own law accepts for entry, and only at a Portuguese border.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>These passports carry more risk.<\/strong> If you hold one, plan to stay in Portugal until you have your card, unless you have no choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"if-your-passport-doesn-t-need-a-schengen-visa\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">If your passport doesn&#8217;t need a Schengen visa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The border may treat you as a short-stay visitor, which is a different status from the one your AIMA file depends on.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s how the rules fit together:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Time on a long-stay visa or residence permit doesn&#8217;t count<\/strong> towards your 90 days in any 180.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-8\">[8]<\/a><\/sup><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-10\">[10]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Since 10 April 2026, the EU&#8217;s Entry\/Exit System<\/strong> registers short-stay visitors&#8217; entries and exits at external borders, and flags overstays automatically.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-11\">[11]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It doesn&#8217;t apply to holders of long-stay visas or residence permits.<\/strong><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-12\">[12]<\/a><\/sup> The European Commission adds that an EU citizen&#8217;s family member is exempt only if they hold a residence card or permit.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-14\">[14]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So if you re-enter on an expired visa, the border may record you as <strong>a short-stay visitor<\/strong>. Your AIMA appointment was given to someone who came in on a <strong>residence visa<\/strong> to apply for a permit. Don&#8217;t treat a visitor entry as a fresh start for your AIMA wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-dep\">\n<div class=\"nm-dc y\"><p class=\"w\">If your passport needs a Schengen visa<\/p><h4>More risk<\/h4><p>Once the residence visa ends, you hold no visa and no listed residence document. Only an extension sticker helps, and only at a Portuguese border.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-dc\"><p class=\"w\">If your passport is visa-free<\/p><h4>A different risk<\/h4><p>You may be let in, but as a short-stay visitor. That isn&#8217;t the status your AIMA file is based on, and it isn&#8217;t a fresh start for your wait.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"people-online-say-they-flew-home-and-nothing-happened\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8220;People online say they flew home and nothing happened&#8221;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>They do, and those stories are real.<\/strong> Here&#8217;s a typical one, from a recent expat-forum thread.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A British citizen, the partner of a Portuguese citizen, had already had their AIMA appointment and paid for the card. About 14 weeks later, still waiting, they flew to London for a week. They flew direct, travelled with their partner and carried every paper from the appointment. <strong>Nobody asked a single question<\/strong>, leaving or coming back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at the details before you treat it as your plan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The passport was visa-free.<\/strong> Most smooth trips we hear about involve British, American or Canadian passports. In the same thread, someone whose passport needs a Schengen visa said their documents are checked every time they board, and police have checked them at other Schengen airports.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The appointment had already happened.<\/strong> Travelling with AIMA&#8217;s receipt after you&#8217;ve been seen and paid is a different position from travelling with only a booking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It was a different route.<\/strong> As the partner of a Portuguese citizen, that person wasn&#8217;t on a residence visa at all.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>One easy trip isn&#8217;t a rule.<\/strong> AIMA&#8217;s receipt still isn&#8217;t on the EU&#8217;s list of residence documents,<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-9\">[9]<\/a><\/sup> and nothing official protects you if a border officer sees your papers differently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-does-our-partner-immigration-lawyer-advise\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does our partner immigration lawyer advise?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Her advice is to stay in Portugal until you have your residence card<\/strong>, unless you have to travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people do travel and come back without trouble, carrying their appointment proof. Others are questioned. Earlier in 2026, an AIMA officer told one of our clients not to leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our partner immigration lawyer has seen the trip work. She still doesn&#8217;t recommend it. <strong>If you go, you accept the risk.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-if-you-really-have-to-travel\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if you really have to travel?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Get advice on your exact dates and passport before you book anything.<\/strong> A parent in hospital is a real reason to go. It&#8217;s also the worst moment to find a problem at check-in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A short <a href=\"\/portugal-immigration-consultation\/\">immigration consultation<\/a> before you book gives you an answer for your passport, your visa dates and your appointment date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you decide to go, carry everything that shows your situation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Your passport<\/strong>, with the residence visa in it, even though it has expired.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your extension of stay sticker<\/strong>, if you have one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your AIMA appointment email or confirmation<\/strong>, printed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Any AIMA receipt or reference number<\/strong> you&#8217;ve been given.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-qs\">\n<p class=\"nm-k\">Before you book a flight, check<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>Is my residence visa still valid on the day I fly back, with a few days to spare?<\/li>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>Do I still have an entry left on it?<\/li>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>If it has expired, do I hold a valid extension of stay sticker?<\/li>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>Does my passport need a Schengen visa?<\/li>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>Can I fly straight back into Portugal?<\/li>\n<li><span>\u2713<\/span>Will I be back well before my AIMA appointment?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then a few practical points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fly straight back to Portugal where you can.<\/strong> Portugal&#8217;s law recognises a valid extension sticker for entry; other Schengen countries don&#8217;t have to.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check in early.<\/strong> If the airline has questions, you want time to answer them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Some travellers report using the staffed passport desk.<\/strong> They say the automatic e-gates may log you as a new short-stay visitor, so they queue for a border officer instead and show their AIMA papers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Never miss your AIMA appointment.<\/strong> If the trip puts the appointment date at risk, move the trip.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Nobody can promise how an airline or a border officer will treat you.<\/strong> Carrying the right papers helps you explain your situation. It doesn&#8217;t give you a right to board or enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"is-it-different-if-you-re-renewing-a-residence-card\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it different if you&#8217;re renewing a residence card?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Yes. Renewals have their own rules, with more cover inside Portugal.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A renewal receipt has the same effect as your residence card for 60 days<\/strong>, and that period can be renewed. Portugal&#8217;s immigration law says so.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AIMA said from 15 October 2025 that expired permits are no longer valid unless you&#8217;ve started the renewal.<\/strong> Once you have, the renewal proof is <strong>valid for 180 days<\/strong>.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-4\">[4]<\/a><\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those rules help you inside Portugal. For travel, AIMA&#8217;s own FAQ said the earlier extensions applied <strong>inside Portugal only<\/strong>, and that trips to other Schengen countries follow the EU&#8217;s border rules.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-13\">[13]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So if you&#8217;re renewing, the same caution applies to trips abroad until the new card is in your hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-dep\">\n<div class=\"nm-dc y\"><p class=\"w\">Your visa is still valid<\/p><h4>You can travel<\/h4><p>You have two entries. Make sure you&#8217;re back before the visa ends.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-dc\"><p class=\"w\">Expired, with an extension of stay<\/p><h4>You&#8217;re authorised to stay<\/h4><p>Portugal&#8217;s law lets the sticker get you back into Portugal. Other Schengen countries don&#8217;t have to accept it.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-dc\"><p class=\"w\">Expired, no extension<\/p><h4>Ask straight away<\/h4><p>Requests more than 30 days late are refused, except in exceptional cases. Fines rise with time.<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"nm-dc\"><p class=\"w\">You&#8217;re renewing a card<\/p><h4>Covered inside Portugal<\/h4><p>Your renewal receipt works like your card for 60 days, renewable. Trips abroad are still a risk.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-should-you-do-while-you-wait\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should you do while you wait?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Fix the things you can control now:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Put your visa&#8217;s end date in your diary.<\/strong> Ask for the extension of stay well before it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep every AIMA email and receipt.<\/strong> Save them as PDFs and print the key ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check the dates on your documents.<\/strong> Some certificates can age out during a long wait. Our <a href=\"\/aima-appointment-checklist\/\">AIMA appointment checklist<\/a> lists what to bring.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plan any trips before your visa expires<\/strong>, or wait until your card arrives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be ready to send missing documents fast.<\/strong> In practice, AIMA usually gives 10 days to send anything missing after the appointment. Send it within that deadline.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t count on an earlier slot.<\/strong> AIMA has started answering the phone more often, but in our experience an earlier appointment is very unlikely.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re the non-EU partner of an EU citizen, you&#8217;re on a different route with its own paperwork. Our post on <a href=\"\/aima-article-15-appointment\/\">when AIMA doesn&#8217;t answer an EU family member&#8217;s request<\/a> covers that case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"should-you-get-help-with-this\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should you get help with this?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not always.<\/strong> If you&#8217;re staying put, you can handle this yourself: ask for the extension of stay on time, keep your papers, and wait for your appointment in Portugal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Help is worth it in two situations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>You have to travel before your card arrives.<\/strong> Get advice on your passport and dates first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You want your file right first time.<\/strong> A missing document means sending it afterwards against a short deadline.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One honest limitation: <strong>we can&#8217;t speed AIMA up or get you an earlier slot.<\/strong> Nobody can. What we can do is make sure your file is ready when your appointment comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"nm-cta\">\n<style>\n.nm-cta{background:#1B2A4A;border-radius:20px;overflow:hidden;color:#fff;box-shadow:0 24px 60px rgba(10,15,30,.18);margin:40px 0;font-family:inherit;}\n.nm-cta img{width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover;display:block;margin:0;}\n.nm-cta .nm-cta-body{padding:38px;}\n.nm-cta .nm-cta-pill{display:inline-block;background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A;border-radius:999px;padding:6px 14px;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;}\n.nm-cta p{font-size:17px;line-height:1.65;color:rgba(255,255,255,.86);margin:18px 0 22px;}\n.nm-cta p a{color:#F5C518;text-decoration:underline;text-underline-offset:3px;}\n.nm-cta .nm-cta-btns{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:12px;}\n.nm-cta .nm-btn-p{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;background:#F5C518;color:#1B2A4A !important;padding:14px 24px;border-radius:12px;font-weight:700;font-size:16px;text-decoration:none;}\n.nm-cta .nm-btn-p:hover{background:#E3B30C;}\n.nm-cta .nm-btn-s{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;color:#fff !important;border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.4);padding:14px 24px;border-radius:12px;font-weight:700;font-size:16px;text-decoration:none;}\n.nm-cta .nm-btn-s:hover{background:#fff;color:#1B2A4A !important;}\n@media (max-width:640px){.nm-cta .nm-cta-body{padding:26px 22px;}}\n<\/style>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/cta-miradouro.png\" alt=\"A miradouro view over Lisbon rooftops at golden hour\">\n<div class=\"nm-cta-body\">\n<span class=\"nm-cta-pill\">AIMA appointment support<\/span>\n<p><strong>From \u20ac399.<\/strong> A checklist for your route, a written review of your documents by a partner Portuguese lawyer, one correction round and a 45-minute prep call before the day. You book the appointment; we get your file ready for it.<\/p>\n<div class=\"nm-cta-btns\">\n<a class=\"nm-btn-p\" href=\"\/aima-appointment-support\/\">See AIMA appointment support<\/a>\n<a class=\"nm-btn-s\" href=\"\/portugal-immigration-consultation\/\">Book a lawyer call<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"does-my-aima-appointment-extend-my-visa\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does my AIMA appointment extend my visa?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No.<\/strong> Nothing extends a residence visa automatically. The last blanket extension that covered visas ended on 30 June 2025.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-2\">[2]<\/a><\/sup> The route the law offers is an extension of stay, which you ask AIMA for.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"am-i-illegal-once-my-visa-expires\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Am I illegal once my visa expires?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No, as long as you hold a valid extension of stay: it extends the time you&#8217;re authorised to stay.<\/strong><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup> Your appointment on its own doesn&#8217;t do that, so ask for the extension before the visa runs out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-long-can-the-extension-of-stay-last\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long can the extension of stay last?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Up to 90 days for a residence-visa holder.<\/strong> The law allows longer while a residence application is pending.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-much-does-the-extension-of-stay-cost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does the extension of stay cost?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>AIMA&#8217;s fee table lists \u20ac79.50 online or \u20ac106.10 in person for this extension.<\/strong><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-6\">[6]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-do-i-ask-for-the-extension-of-stay\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I ask for the extension of stay?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Book it through AIMA&#8217;s online contact form, with the subject &#8220;Vistos&#8221;, attaching copies of your passport and your visa.<\/strong><sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-5\">[5]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-i-travel-while-my-visa-is-still-valid\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I travel while my visa is still valid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Yes.<\/strong> The residence visa is valid for two entries into Portugal.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup> Your arrival uses one, so make sure you&#8217;re back before the visa expires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-i-travel-on-my-aima-receipt\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I travel on my AIMA receipt?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No.<\/strong> AIMA says its receipt for a first application isn&#8217;t a travel document and can&#8217;t be used to move around other Schengen countries.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-7\">[7]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-i-fly-home-and-come-back-on-an-expired-visa\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I fly home and come back on an expired visa?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You can leave.<\/strong> Getting back in is the risk, especially if your passport needs a Schengen visa. Our partner immigration lawyer&#8217;s advice is to stay until you have your residence card, unless you have to travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"if-my-passport-is-visa-free-can-i-just-come-back-as-a-touris\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">If my passport is visa-free, can I just come back as a tourist?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Don&#8217;t plan on it.<\/strong> You may be let in, but the border can record you as a short-stay visitor, a different status from the residence visa your AIMA file is based on. A visitor entry isn&#8217;t a fresh start for your AIMA wait. Get advice before you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-i-work-while-i-wait-for-my-appointment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I work while I wait for my appointment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Yes, in one situation the law sets out.<\/strong> Portugal&#8217;s immigration law says a residence-visa holder may work while the residence-permit application is pending, when the delay isn&#8217;t the applicant&#8217;s fault.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-happens-if-i-overstay\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I overstay?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It&#8217;s an administrative offence with a fine that rises with time, from \u20ac80 to \u20ac160 for up to 30 days, to \u20ac500 to \u20ac700 for more than 180 days.<\/strong> The same fine applies if it&#8217;s found when you leave.<sup class=\"nm-fnref\"><a href=\"#source-1\">[1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-novomove-get-me-an-earlier-aima-appointment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Novomove get me an earlier AIMA appointment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No.<\/strong> You book or request your appointment yourself, and nobody can speed AIMA up. We help you prepare the file so it&#8217;s ready on the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sources-and-how-we-checked\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sources and how we checked<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We read each source below on 10 November 2026. Legal points come only from official texts. Practice points come from our partner immigration lawyer&#8217;s experience with clients, and are labelled as practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"source-1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pgdlisboa.pt\/leis\/lei_mostra_articulado.php?nid=920&amp;tabela=leis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lei 23\/2007, consolidated text (20th version), PGDL Lisboa<\/a>, Portugal&#8217;s immigration law, articles 10, 58, 71, 72, 78, 81 and 192. Consulted 10 Nov 2026.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/diariodarepublica.pt\/dr\/detalhe\/decreto-lei\/41-a-2024-870297959\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Decreto-Lei 41-A\/2024, Di\u00e1rio da Rep\u00fablica<\/a>, 28 Jun 2024. Visas and permits accepted until 30 Jun 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/files.diariodarepublica.pt\/1s\/2025\/06\/12301\/0000700008.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Decreto-Lei 85-B\/2025, Di\u00e1rio da Rep\u00fablica<\/a>, 30 Jun 2025. Extension of residence permits only.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/aima.gov.pt\/pt\/noticias\/asfn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AIMA, &#8220;Renova\u00e7\u00e3o de Autoriza\u00e7\u00f5es de Resid\u00eancia: Fim das Prorroga\u00e7\u00f5es Autom\u00e1ticas&#8221;<\/a>, 15 Oct 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/aima.gov.pt\/pt\/noticias\/prorrogacao-de-visto-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AIMA, &#8220;Agendamento da Prorroga\u00e7\u00e3o de Vistos Online!&#8221;<\/a>, 1 Jul 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-6\"><a href=\"https:\/\/aima.gov.pt\/media\/pages\/documents\/dc677d0005-1772305205\/tabela-de-taxas-e-demais-encargos-a-cobrar-pelos-procedimentos-administrativos.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AIMA, table of fees (Portaria 307\/2023)<\/a>, updated 26 Feb 2026.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-7\"><a href=\"https:\/\/aima.gov.pt\/media\/pages\/documents\/cb10fe945f-1742142374\/assuntos-gerais-_pt.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AIMA FAQ &#8220;Assuntos Gerais&#8221;, question 2<\/a>, Mar 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-8\"><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/EN\/TXT\/HTML\/?uri=CELEX:02016R0399-20240710\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Regulation (EU) 2016\/399, Schengen Borders Code, consolidated text<\/a>, articles 2(16) and 6, version of 10 Jul 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-9\"><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/EN\/TXT\/HTML\/?uri=OJ:C_202505255\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">List of residence permits under article 2(16) of the Schengen Borders Code, Portugal, OJ C\/2025\/5255<\/a>, 29 Sep 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-10\"><a href=\"https:\/\/home-affairs.ec.europa.eu\/system\/files\/2020-09\/short_stay_schengen_calculator_user_manual_en.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">European Commission, short-stay Schengen calculator user manual<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-11\"><a href=\"https:\/\/home-affairs.ec.europa.eu\/policies\/schengen-borders-and-visa\/smart-borders\/entry-exit-system_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">European Commission (DG HOME), Entry\/Exit System policy page<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/home-affairs.ec.europa.eu\/news\/new-entryexit-system-went-live-12-october-2025-10-13_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8220;The new Entry\/Exit System went live on 12 October&#8221;<\/a>, 13 Oct 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-12\"><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/EN\/TXT\/HTML\/?uri=CELEX:32017R2226\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Regulation (EU) 2017\/2226, Entry\/Exit System<\/a>, articles 2 and 12.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-13\"><a href=\"https:\/\/aima.gov.pt\/media\/pages\/documents\/15677172d6-1738878548\/titulos-de-residencia.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AIMA FAQ &#8220;T\u00edtulos de Resid\u00eancia&#8221;<\/a>, Feb 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"source-14\"><a href=\"https:\/\/home-affairs.ec.europa.eu\/news\/entry-exit-system-fully-operational-10-april-2026-who-exempt-2026-07-27_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">European Commission (DG HOME), &#8220;The Entry Exit System is fully operational since 10 April 2026. Who is exempt?&#8221;<\/a>, 27 Jul 2026.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<style>\n.entry-content sup.nm-fnref{font-size:.72em;line-height:0;vertical-align:super;margin-left:2px;}\n.entry-content sup.nm-fnref a{color:#1a5fb4;text-decoration:none;font-weight:600;}\n.entry-content sup.nm-fnref a:hover{text-decoration:underline;}\n.entry-content li[id^=\"source-\"]{scroll-margin-top:110px;}\n.entry-content li[id^=\"source-\"]:target{background:#FFFBF0;}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does my AIMA appointment extend my visa?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Nothing extends a residence visa automatically. The last blanket extension that covered visas ended on 30 June 2025. 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