Immigrants are having several problems getting their residence permit automatically renewed at SEF.
The first problem is that, despite being an online procedure, the renewal is not always available. As a result, many migrants only get the renewal after the expiration of the residence permit. Others simply do not know if they will be able to do so.
Important update!!!
The Portuguese government’s official recommendation is that you renew your residence permit using the SIGA app. This application tells you which documents the foreigner must submit to the IRN (Instituto de Registos e Notariado).
The IRN will receive your documents and send them to AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum).
But so far (09/11/2023) SEF’s automatic renewal platform (which has been legally extinguished) still seems to be working.
In fact, it’s a real mess.
In addition, there are several errors on the platform, in which the user receives information on the status of the application, such as “annulled by SEF” or “canceled”, without any reason or justification. There are other cases where the status “awaiting submission” does not advance. In short, there are numerous problems that generate great anguish in the immigrant.
So far, it is not known when SEF will solve the platform problem.
On August 3, 2023, SEF published the following note:
“As the post-payment of the DUC is registering the appearance of messages in the status of the application such as “awaiting payment” or “annulled by SEF”, the Foreigners and Borders Service clarifies that it is working on solving the problem”.
I want to renew automatically my residence permit on SEF website. What should I do?
You must register in the personal login area of the SEF website and access Applications > Automatic Renewal area. You must follow all necessary steps and submit the application for automatic renewal of your residence permit.
I am already registered on the SEF Website. How should I proceed to automatically renew my residence permit?
You must access your personal login area of the SEF website > Applications > Automatic Renewal. You must follow all necessary steps and submit the application for automatic renewal of your residence permit.
Items covered: childcare places in Portugal, free childcare center (nursery), private childcare, enrolment, research, law, etc.
Introduction
This article will address the main issues related to the right of children to nursery, crèche and kindergarten (pre-school). The aim is to guide and parents and other interested parties in relation to children’s entitlement, as well as to clarify the structure of education in Portugal for pre-school age.
Items covered: places for daycare, free daycare, private daycare enrollment, research, law, etc.
According to article 74, no. 2, b, of the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic, it is the responsibility of the State to “create a public system and develop the general system of pre-school education“. Therefore, children have the right to day care.
Pre-school education is intended for children aged between three years and the entry into compulsory education, constituting the first stage of basic education in the process of lifelong education (as established in the Framework Law on Pre-School Education, Law No. 5/97, of February 10 – known as the Basic Law of the Education System (LBSE).
Social Security in Portugal
In Portugal, the responsibility for daycare is attributed to Social Security (Instituto da Segurança Social, I.P.). Social Security is the government body responsible for the social protection and welfare of citizens, including the area of childhood and pre-school education.
The Instituto da Segurança Social, I.P. is the entity that regulates and supervises the network of daycare centers in Portugal, both public and private daycare centers. It establishes the requirements, criteria and standards for the operation of childcare centers, as well as the eligibility for access to these services.
In addition, Social Security may also offer financial support or co-payments for families who need assistance to pay for daycare fees, especially for those with lower income.
Therefore, Social Security is the responsible authority for daycare centers in Portugal, ensuring that these institutions meet quality standards and comply with public policies related to pre-school education.
Law no. 65/2015, of July 3 – first amendment to Law no. 85/2009, of August 27
According to this legislation, pre-school education is universal for all children from the year they reach the age of 4. This universality implies, for the State, the duty to guarantee the existence of a network of pre-school education that allows the enrollment of all children covered by it and to ensure that this frequency is carried out under a free regime of the educational component.
Nursery and kindergarten
The separation of children by age in nurseries and pre-school education institutions is a common practice to meet the specific developmental and learning needs of each age group. This approach aims to provide an educational and care environment appropriate to the developmental stage of each group of children.
The separation of children by age usually follows specific criteria, such as:
Nursery: This age group contains the youngest children, usually aged up to about 12 or 18 months. At this stage, children are still very dependent and need more intense care, including special feeding, diaper changing and sensory stimulation activities.
Nursery: For children aged between 1 and 3 years. At this stage, children begin to develop motor, language and social skills. Pedagogical activities are more directed to promote exploration and interaction with the environment.
Kindergarten (Pre-school): Generally for children aged between 3 and 5 years. At this stage, the focus is more on developing cognitive skills such as language, logical reasoning and socialization. Activities are more structured and include preparation for entry into elementary school.
“Happy Daycare” program (Creche Feliz in Portuguese)
Social Security has launched the “Creche Feliz” mobile app. With this application, you can search for daycare centers with free places for children born on or after September 1, 2021.
With this application, the interested party can search and obtain information about the daycare centers that have free places available in the area of residence or place of work. In the application you can also see the contacts and location of the participating daycare centers.
If there are no vacancies in daycare centers of the solidarity network, families can choose a daycare center of the profitable network and ask for support from Social Security for the exemption of payment. This support can also be requested in the application.
The Creche Feliz program covers all children born on or after September 1, 2021, who attend daycare centers, family daycare centers in the solidarity network, Social Security nannies or daycare centers in the profit network that are part of the list of participating institutions.
Children born before September 1, 2021 are only covered if they fall within the first or second income bracket of family contribution.
Social Charter in Portugal (Carta Social in Portuguese)
According to the website itself, the Social Charter is a study of the dynamics of the Social Services and Equipment Network (RSES) that aims to make known the social responses, in the scope of social action, supervised by the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security (MTSSS), in operation on the Mainland, its characterization, territorial location, equipment and support entities.
The Social Charter, as it has been designed, built and updated, is intended to be both a multipurpose instrument of extreme flexibility in the fields of social information, support for decision-making at different levels, support for institutional cooperation and, in particular, information to the citizen.
The information provided in the Social Charter includes the equipment with social responses from the public, solidarity and private-profit networks.
Nanny in Portugal (“ama” in Portuguese)
A nanny is a person who takes care of children in their home until they reach the age of entry to pre-school.
From the age of 3 (completed by September 15), the child must join a pre-school establishment.
To carry out the activity of nanny in a legalized way you need a permit. This authorization is granted by the Social Security Institute, I. P., after verification of compliance with the requirements and conditions provided for in the regulations in force for access to the profession.
The terms and conditions for access to the profession and the exercise of the activity of nanny are established in Decree-Law no. 115/2015, of June 22.
Directorate-General for School Establishments (DGEstE)
The Directorate-General for School Establishments (DGEstE) in Portugal is responsible for the management and administration of public basic and secondary education establishments, not including pre-school education.
Author: Adriano Martins Pinheiro, lawyer in Portugal
Living in Portugal offers many advantages, but there are also some challenges to consider. Here are some pros and cons of living in Portugal:
Pros:
Climate: Portugal enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate in most regions, with warm summers and mild winters. The pleasant weather is a major draw for many expats and retirees.
Cost of Living: Portugal generally has a lower cost of living compared to many other European countries. Housing, food, and entertainment can be more affordable, especially in smaller cities and rural areas.
Quality of Life: Portugal is known for its high quality of life, with a relaxed pace, beautiful landscapes, and a strong sense of community.
Culture and History: Portugal boasts a rich history and culture, evident in its historic towns, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine.
Healthcare: The Portuguese healthcare system is generally of a high standard and accessible to residents, especially in larger cities.
Safety: Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a welcoming environment.
Cons:
Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among the younger population, language barriers can still be a challenge, especially in more rural regions.
Bureaucracy: Like in many countries, dealing with bureaucratic processes in Portugal can be time-consuming and frustrating for newcomers.
Job Opportunities: Finding employment in Portugal can be challenging, particularly for non-Portuguese speakers. The job market may be more limited in certain industries.
Low Salaries: Salaries in Portugal can be lower than in some other European countries, which can impact the overall standard of living for expats.
Healthcare for Non-Residents: Access to healthcare may be limited for non-residents or those not covered by the Portuguese healthcare system.
Traffic and Public Transport: Traffic congestion can be an issue in larger cities, and public transport may not be as extensive as in some other European cities.
Isolation: Some rural areas may experience a sense of isolation, especially for those who prefer a more bustling urban environment.
Overall, Portugal offers a high quality of life, a welcoming culture, and a beautiful setting. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons based on individual preferences, lifestyle, and personal circumstances before making the decision to move to Portugal. Conducting thorough research and visiting the country to experience it firsthand can be beneficial in making an informed choice.
Here are some of the key changes that affected English immigrants in Portugal after Brexit:
Residency Status: Before Brexit, as EU citizens, British nationals had the right to move freely and reside in Portugal without the need for a visa. However, after Brexit, British citizens are considered third-country nationals, and different residency rules now apply.
Residency Registration: British citizens who were already living in Portugal before December 31, 2020, could apply for residency under the Withdrawal Agreement until June 30, 2021. This agreement allows them to continue living and working in Portugal with similar rights as before.
New Immigration Rules: For British citizens who want to move to Portugal after December 31, 2020, new immigration rules apply. They may need to apply for a visa or a residence permit depending on their purpose of stay (e.g., work, study, retirement).
Freedom of Movement: British citizens no longer have the right to freedom of movement within the EU. This means they may face additional border checks and visa requirements when traveling to other EU countries from Portugal.
Driving Licenses: British nationals living in Portugal may need to exchange their UK driving licenses for Portuguese ones, depending on the validity period and local regulations.
It’s important for English immigrants in Portugal or those considering moving there to stay informed about the latest immigration and residency requirements, as well as any updates to agreements between the UK and the EU. The situation can evolve, so seeking advice from official government sources or legal experts is essential to ensure compliance with the current regulations.
As of my last update in September 2021, several factors have contributed to the increasing number of Americans immigrating to Portugal:
Quality of Life: Portugal is known for its high quality of life, with a pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle. Many Americans are attracted to Portugal’s slower pace of life and the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle.
Cost of Living: Portugal generally offers a lower cost of living compared to many major cities in the United States. Housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses can be more affordable, making it an appealing destination for retirees and digital nomads.
Residency Programs: Portugal has introduced several attractive residency programs that appeal to Americans seeking to live or retire in Europe. The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, the Golden Visa program, and the D7 visa (for retirees and those with passive income) are some of the initiatives that facilitate obtaining residency in Portugal.
Safety and Stability: Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Its political stability, low crime rates, and welcoming atmosphere make it an appealing destination for those seeking a secure place to live.
Language: English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among the younger population. This makes it easier for English-speaking Americans to adapt and communicate in Portugal.
Education and Healthcare: Portugal offers a good standard of education and healthcare, which can be important considerations for families and retirees.
Cultural and Historical Appeal: Portugal’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene attract individuals with an appreciation for heritage and cultural experiences.
If you’re considering immigrating to Portugal or any other country, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, understand the legal requirements, and consider personal preferences and priorities before making such a significant decision.
In Portugal, it is safer to seek advice from specialist immigration lawyers. By law (Law of Own Acts), only lawyers can provide legal advice. Furthermore, the immigration system can become confusing and risky. The lawyer, as a professional registered with the Portuguese Bar Association, is someone qualified, responsible and safe to advise immigrants.
Adriano Martins Pinheiro is a lawyer in Portugal, writer and teacher of online courses. The law firm consults online for all countries.
Portuguese was the 6th most spoken language in the world by the number of native speakers. It is estimated that there were around 215 to 220 million native speakers of Portuguese at that time.
Brazil is the country with the most Portuguese speakers in the world
Brazil is the country with the most Portuguese speakers in the world. It has the largest population of native Portuguese speakers and is the most populous country among the Lusophone countries. Brazil alone accounts for the majority of the total number of Portuguese speakers globally, with over 200 million native speakers.
The history between Portugal and Brazil
Brazil was colonized by Portugal in the 16th century. The Portuguese first arrived in the territory in 1500 and established settlements. Over time, they developed a strong presence and influence in the region, leading to the widespread adoption of the Portuguese language.
Differences between Portuguese from Portugal and Portuguese from Brazil
There are differences between Portuguese from Portugal and Portuguese from Brazil. While both variants are based on the same language, they have evolved differently over time due to historical, cultural, and geographical factors.
Portuguese from Portugal is also known as European Portuguese.
Students say it’s easier to learn Brazilian Portuguese
Some learners may find Brazilian Portuguese slightly easier to understand for a few reasons:
Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese tends to have clearer and more open vowel sounds compared to certain variations of European Portuguese. The pronunciation of some words may be more straightforward for learners.
Melodic Quality: Some learners find Brazilian Portuguese to have a more melodic and sing-song quality, which can make it easier to follow along and identify word boundaries.
Exposure: Due to Brazil’s large population and significant cultural influence, learners may have more exposure to Brazilian Portuguese through music, movies, and television, making it feel more familiar.
Informal Language: Brazilian Portuguese often incorporates informal language and expressions, which can be more relatable and accessible for learners.
Learner-Friendly Resources: Brazilian Portuguese has a wide range of learner-friendly resources, including textbooks, apps, and online courses, which can support language acquisition.
The certificate in international format is intended for use abroad, has a multilingual format and is issued in the models approved by the International Convention on the Issuance of Multilingual Certificates of Civil Registry Acts, approved by Government Decree No. 34/83 of May 12.
When issuing the certificate in international model, the person concerned does not need to provide a translated and certified birth certificate. If he or she wishes, the person concerned may apply for the certificate to be apostilled so that it can be used in any country that is a member of the Hague Convention.
As a rule, certificates in Portugal are associated with a birth, marriage or death certificate.
Portuguese civil registration certificates can be issued in Portugal in three different formats: narrative, full copy and international model.
Narrative certificate
Narrative certificates narrate the content of the seat in a synthetic way. It mentions the elements extracted from the text of the entry, combined with the changes introduced by the entries in the margin.
Full copy certificate
Full copy certificates transcribe the entire text of the seating to which they relate and its amendments.
A lawyer registered with the Portuguese Bar Association has notarial powers to certify the translation.
“Sworn translator” or “certified translation”?
In Portugal it is very common to use “certified translation”. The lawyer registered with the Portuguese Bar Association (OA) has notarial powers to certify the translation. This certification can be apostilled. With the apostille, the document can be used abroad. Therefore, there is no sworn translation or sworn translator in Portugal.
How is a certified translation made? Example
The client needs a criminal record certificate from Portugal, translated into English:
In this case, the lawyer:
a) arranges for the dispatch of the criminal record certificate;
b) makes the translation of said certificate;
c) certifies the translation; and
d) apostille the certification.
With these steps, the client will be ready to use the document abroad.
Similarly, it is common to certify the translation of the birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate, etc. The steps are the same.
Sending abroad
Once the translation has been certified and apostilled, the document must be sent abroad. Once you have the documents, you just need to calculate the weight and distance and get a quote from the courier company (we use DHL).
What is a sworn translator?
Even though Portugal does not have sworn translators, we will answer the question:
“Sworn translators” (tradutor juramentado) is a term used in Portuguese, particularly in Brazil and Portugal, to refer to a “sworn translator” in English. A sworn translator is a professional translator who is authorized and recognized by the government or a relevant authority to provide official and legally recognized translations of documents.
The term “juramentado” comes from the Latin word “juramentum,” which means oath. When a translator becomes “juramentado” or “sworn,” they take an oath before a competent authority, such as a court or a notary public, to faithfully and accurately translate documents from one language to another. This oath signifies their commitment to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and ethics in their translation work.
The services of a sworn translator are often required for the translation of legal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic transcripts, contracts, and other official paperwork that needs to be presented to government agencies, courts, educational institutions, or other official entities.
The status of a “tradutor juramentado” varies from country to country, and the requirements for becoming one can also differ depending on the jurisdiction. However, in general, they are recognized as experts in their field and play a crucial role in facilitating communication across language barriers in legal and official matters.
Visa for Portugal from usa | Portugal visa for us citizens| How to get Portugal Visa
We are a team of experienced immigration lawyers in Portugal. We work with visa analysis and various types of foreigner needs in Portugal. We are based in Portugal, but we provide online services worldwide.
Determine the visa type: The first step is to identify the type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit. Portugal offers various visa categories, including short-term visas for tourism, business, or family visits, and long-term visas for study, work, or residence.
Gather necessary documents: Once you know the visa type, collect the required documentation. Commonly needed documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of travel arrangements, accommodation details, travel insurance, financial proof (such as bank statements), and supporting documents specific to the visa type (e.g., invitation letter, work contract, student enrollment letter).
Make an appointment: Check with the Portuguese consulate or embassy in the United States to see if an appointment is necessary for visa submission. Many consulates require prior appointments to avoid long wait times.
Attend the visa interview: On the scheduled date, attend the visa interview at the Portuguese consulate or embassy. During the interview, be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip and provide additional information if requested.
Pay the visa fee: Each visa type may have different fees, and they are subject to change. Ensure you pay the correct amount at the time of application submission.
Wait for processing: The processing time for Portuguese visas can vary depending on the type of visa and other factors. Be sure to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
Wait for a decision: After submitting your application and attending the interview, wait for a decision on your visa. If your visa is approved, you will receive it affixed to your passport.
Getting assistance from SEF Portugal (APMA) is a big challenge. Thousands of people are suffering various kinds of inconveniences because they cannot get assistance and do not know when and how they will get it.
In some cases, the only solution is to hire a lawyer experienced with immigration issues in Portugal and with the functioning of SEF (APMA). But, as a rule, the lawyer will only be able to act, after the immigrant manages (himself) to make the appointment with SEF. In these cases, the lawyer is available to accompany the client on the day of the appointment, make a checklist of documents and also make formal requests about information in the process.
If the only way to get an appointment at SEF is through the call center, there are no solution options for the lawyer. In other words, the lawyer will also need to call the same phone number to try to get an appointment. Unfortunately, there is no differentiated path for lawyers. There is only one call center for everyone (lawyers and general public). This is not correct, as Portuguese legislation determines that there is a priority of service for lawyers. But if the only option is to call the call center, the law is ignored.
Another common problem is that there are no appointment slots. For example, it is common that there are no vacancies for family reunification. Therefore, even if the person gets the service through the call center, this person will receive the information that there are no vacancies for scheduling. In addition, there is never any sure information about when there will be vacancies. The only option is to suffer the anguish of uncertainty.
Important
When the immigrant gets an appointment with SEF, the lawyer can offer services such as: monitoring the day of the personal interview, monitoring the residence permit process or making requests for progress and / or clarifications about the process.
Digital platform
For some specific cases, the only way for the immigrant to receive assistance is to make the request through a digital platform. For example, for the automatic renewal of the residence permit, the only way is to apply online (SEF digital platform). There is no option to make an appointment by phone. In addition, this digital platform has not been working well either. Currently, the validity of residence permits is expiring, before the immigrant can renew the residence permit online. We know that there is a decree in Portugal that extends the expiration date of the documents. But, this is a long debate that will be left for another time.
New numbers for the SEF Call Center 217 115 000 (SEF landline) 965 903 700 (SEF cell phone)
