CRUE: how EU citizens register their residence
The CRUE registration certificate for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens living in Portugal: when you need it, where to apply and which documents to bring.
What this guide will cover
- What the CRUE is
- When you need it
- Where to apply
- Documents
- Permanent residence certificate
Official sources
We check our guides against these official pages. If something has changed, the official source wins.
Need help?
Official bodies and services related to this guide. Sponsored listings are always labelled.
- Official Immigration & residency
AIMA — Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum
The public agency that handles residence permits and renewals for non-EU nationals. It took over these functions from the former immigration service, SEF, in 2023. Start here for current procedures and appointment channels.
- Languages
- Portuguese, English
- Where
- Nationwide
- Official Immigration & residency
Portuguese Visa Portal (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Official information on national (D) and short-stay visas, the documents required and applying through consulates abroad.
- Languages
- Portuguese, English
- Where
- Nationwide · online
- Official Immigration & residency
gov.pt — Public Services Portal (formerly ePortugal)
The government's single entry point for public services, with step-by-step guides to registrations and certificates, and the list of in-person Citizen Spots (Espaços Cidadão).
- Languages
- Portuguese, English
- Where
- Nationwide · online
Social Security in Portugal: A Complete Guide for Expats
How Portugal's social security works for expats: NISS, contribution rates for employees and the self-employed, benefits, pensions and EU rules.
How to get a NIF in Portugal
The first number most people need — for a lease, a bank account and work.
Chave Móvel Digital: how to set up Portugal's digital login
How to activate the Chave Móvel Digital in Portugal as a foreigner: who can get it, the gov.pt app, video call, Finanças letter, in person and PIN problems.