The Portuguese government is launching a new citizenship card for registered foreigners in Portugal, as part of the 'Simplex + 2018' programme. The aim is to streamline administration of all foreign citizens and reduce much of the country's bureaucracy. The Ministry announced that the new card will be issued in the final quarter of 2019.
Instead of the current 'residency card', by the end of 2019, all foreign nationals living in Portugal will need to have a valid Citizen's Card (Cartão do Cidadão).
The new card will incorporate social security, personal tax (NIF) and current health card (Cartâo de Utente) numbers. The scheme will bring foreign nationals living in Portugal in line with Portuguese citizens, who already have a similar ID card.
To apply for the new Cartão do Cidadão, foreign nationals will need to go to their nearest SEF (Service of Foreigners and Borders) and present their current ID card, passport or birth certificate, their Portuguese Taxpayer Card (NIF card or Numero de Identificação Fiscal), their Social Security Card, and any National Health System Card and Voter Card.
To find you closest SEF office, or to book an appointment online please CLICK HERE.
