AIMA Update: Students in Portugal Who Are Now Working Must Use Contact Form
A recent announcement from the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) in Portugal has changed how certain residence renewal requests must be submitted. Specifically, students who entered Portugal with a student residence permit and are now working are no longer supposed to use the standard online renewal portal for changing their status. Instead, AIMA instructs these applicants to submit their request through the official AIMA contact form.
What Has Changed
Previously, many applicants attempted to renew or update their residence status using the general immigration renewal portal. AIMA has clarified that this portal is not appropriate for requests that involve changing the residence category from student to worker status.
According to AIMA’s communication, anyone in this category must now submit the request using the official contact form on the AIMA website under the relevant categories. The notice explicitly states that the portal of renewals “is not the correct method” for this type of change in residence status.
Where to Submit the Correct Request
Applicants should use the official AIMA contact form and select the subject “Concession of Residence Authorization” and the subtype that corresponds to your situation. The process begins here:
https://contactenos.aima.gov.pt/contact-form
Who This Applies To
- Students whose residence permit was issued for study purposes.
- Those who have since taken up employment in Portugal.
- Applicants whose residence needs to be updated to reflect their new working status.
Typical Documents You May Need
The exact requirements can vary by case, but the following are commonly requested by AIMA when processing a change from student to worker status:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Current student residence permit.
- Proof of employment (employment contract or job offer).
- Evidence of lawful stay in Portugal at the time of application.
- Any digital confirmations from the AIMA contact form submission.
- Tax Identification Number (NIF) and Social Security number (NISS), if applicable.
- Proof of health coverage.
Because AIMA’s communication did not publish a full official checklist, it is important to prepare common supporting documents and to follow any specific guidance provided when you select the request type in the contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I use the online renewal portal?
AIMA clarified that the renewal portal is not designed to handle requests that involve changing the residence permit type — for example, from a student permit to a work-related permit. These requests must be submitted through the contact form instead.
Does this affect all students?
This update specifically affects students who hold a student residence permit and are now working. It does not apply to simple renewals within the same category if you remain a student.
Conclusion
If you entered Portugal as a student and are now working, you should not use the regular residence renewal portal. Instead, you must submit your request through the official AIMA contact form:
HERE.
This is where these specific types of requests must be initiated according to AIMA’s latest guidance.
If you need professional guidance or assistance navigating your case, please contact our team at Prismaat.
