That position now appears to be improving.
Portugal’s immigration authority, AIMA, has introduced a digital portal that is gradually streamlining renewals and several administrative steps within the residency process. While biometric collection still requires applicants to attend an appointment in person, the broader workflow is becoming more organised than it was during the earlier transition period following the closure of SEF.
The practical question many applicants are now asking is how quickly the system is actually moving again. Our approved partner Jason Swan will be discussing the current processing landscape in more detail during an upcoming webinar in March, where he will review the latest developments affecting Golden Visa applicants.
A noticeable change in biometric scheduling
One of the most encouraging developments has been the pace at which biometric appointments are being scheduled.
Recent examples from advisory firms suggest that some applicants who submitted complete files toward the end of last year have been able to secure biometric appointments within a matter of months. For those familiar with the delays that characterised earlier stages of the programme’s transition, that represents a meaningful improvement.
While timelines will always vary depending on the case, there are growing indications that the long-standing bottleneck around biometric scheduling may be easing as AIMA increases its processing capacity.
For those monitoring how these changes may affect their own application timelines, Jason Swan will be covering current processing trends and expectations during his upcoming live session.
👉 You can register for the webinar here: Register Now
A System that is becoming more structured
The transition from SEF to AIMA was always expected to involve a period of adjustment. The new authority inherited backlogs while simultaneously building new internal systems and procedures.
With the introduction of digital renewals and a more structured appointment system, the process now appears to be settling into a more predictable rhythm. The system is not entirely digital, and in-person requirements remain part of the process, but the administrative framework is becoming clearer.
For Golden Visa holders, biometrics represent a key milestone. Completing that stage moves applicants closer to receiving their residence cards, securing renewals, and progressing toward long-term residency and eventual citizenship eligibility.
Greater predictability around this step allows families to plan more confidently around travel, schooling and professional commitments.
Anyone seeking clarity on how current timelines may apply to their own situation can request a consultation here: Book a Meeting
Political context and programme stability
Administrative improvements are unfolding alongside a more settled political backdrop.
Portugal recently concluded its presidential election cycle, with António José Seguro emerging victorious in the February runoff. Although the presidency does not directly control immigration policy, the office does play an important role in shaping the broader political tone and constitutional oversight of legislation.
Seguro is widely viewed as a moderate figure aligned with the European mainstream, which generally points toward policy continuity rather than abrupt change. For international investors and residency applicants, that kind of political stability often provides reassurance that immigration frameworks will evolve gradually rather than through sudden shifts.
A different environment in 2026
Portugal’s Golden Visa programme has gone through a period of structural adjustment over the past few years. The removal of property investment routes, the institutional transition to AIMA and the introduction of digital processing tools have all reshaped the landscape.
What is becoming clearer in 2026 is that the system is stabilising. Renewals are increasingly handled online, biometric appointments appear to be moving faster, and the administrative structure is gradually becoming more predictable.
For applicants considering whether to proceed with a Golden Visa application this year, these developments are worth paying attention to.
Learn more in the upcoming webinar
For those following Portugal’s residency programme closely, Jason Swan will be hosting a live webinar on Thursday, March 12, at 5pm Portugal time, where he will provide a comprehensive update on the Golden Visa landscape and what prospective applicants should expect in 2026.
During the session he will cover:
- Portugal Golden Visa basics — who qualifies and how it works
- Updated qualifying investment routes for 2026
- AIMA’s improving processing timelines and what that means for applicants
- Family inclusion rules and planning opportunities
- Key tax considerations, including developments around NHR 2.0
- An overview of alternative residency routes, including the HQA visa
- What the 2026 Golden Visa landscape may look like and how investors can prepare
The session will also include live Q&A.
You can reserve a place for the webinar here: Secure your place now
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