Portugal has experienced a remarkable increase in the number of residence permits issued this year, with AIMA – the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum – having granted 386,463 permits by the end of October 2025.
The figure represents a surge of roughly 60% compared with the same period in 2024.
The statistics were shared by AIMA’s president, Pedro Portugal Gaspar, in a recent interview.
“As of October 22, we had 386,463 (residency) cards actually issued, new authorisations throughout 2025, already with the final card title, because that’s the final element.
“(…)In the same period in 2024, we had 236,030, so we have an increase of 60%, 61%, around that,” said Gaspar.
Much of this year’s activity still stems from cases involving the former “expression of interest” system, which allowed foreign nationals to seek residency even if they entered Portugal as tourists.
The mechanism has since been discontinued – a change that, according to Gaspar, should relieve much of the administrative pressure on AIMA.
He added that applications for residency have already declined by about half this year, a trend likely to continue once Portugal’s new Foreigners Law takes effect.
The legislation, signed by the President of the Republic on 16 October, narrows eligibility for work visas to those applying for “qualified work”.
Renewals have also become more streamlined thanks to AIMA’s Renewals Portal, which has enabled between 32,000 and 33,000 residents to update their permits digitally rather than visiting AIMA offices in person.
Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Club, weighed in on the situation.
“Handling the demand for residency permits in Portugal has been an ongoing issue for AIMA, but we’re hopeful that this will improve as the agency bolsters its workforce.
“There are reportedly plans to further reduce the time it takes to secure Golden Visa residency cards in order to help make the process more efficient.”
Addressing operational challenges, Gaspar acknowledged that around 20% of incoming calls go unanswered, though the agency fielded some 300,000 calls during the first few months of 2025.
He also noted that, despite legal action taken by some foreigners over difficulties securing appointments, “AIMA has never been condemned, because it has always responded positively to the legal action.”
Looking ahead, Gaspar emphasised the need for continued reinforcement of AIMA’s workforce. The agency currently employs over 770 people, following a 10% increase last year.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on estate planning, wealth management, Golden Visa and tax optimisation, including post-NHR / IFICI tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, money transfers and bespoke relocation and luxury real estate solutions to enhance life and investment in Portugal
About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.
Secure EU Residency Through Portugal’s Golden Visa By Investment
Gain visa-free travel, family inclusion, and a secure path to EU citizenship
.jpg)
Maximise your wealth, tax status, property & life in Portugal
Talk to our expert team, so that we can offer personalised support to meet your specific needs.
