This marks around a 60% increase on the same point in 2024, when 236,030 permits had been issued.

AIMA president Pedro Portugal Gaspar revealed the figures, noting: “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.”

A substantial share of this year’s workload has continued to arise from applications filed under the now-abolished “expression of interest” pathway, which previously allowed foreign nationals to request residency after entering Portugal as tourists.

The transition away from this system is expected to ease operational strain on AIMA.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; AIMA have looked to simplify the renewal process through their online portal

Gaspar highlighted that residency applications have already fallen by about half this year, with further reductions anticipated when Portugal’s new Foreigners Law takes effect. Signed on 16 October, the legislation restricts work visas to applicants pursuing “qualified work”.

Renewal procedures have also improved, thanks to AIMA’s online renewals platform, which has enabled between 32,000 and 33,000 residents to update their permits digitally rather than in person.

Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “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.”

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; 386,463 residency permits have been granted this year as of the end of October

To find out more about Portugal's Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme and its benefits, arrange a free discovery call with Portugal Pathways here.

Despite ongoing challenges, Gaspar reported that AIMA handled approximately 300,000 calls in the first months of 2025, though around 20% of incoming calls remain unanswered.

He also stressed that, despite court action from some foreign applicants over scheduling difficulties, “AIMA has never been condemned, because it has always responded positively to the legal action”.

Looking ahead, Gaspar underscored the importance of strengthening staffing levels. The agency currently has more than 770 employees, following a 10% workforce increase last year.