Living in Portugal is a great option for many EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want to enjoy its warm climate, rich history, and unique culture. One important step in moving to Portugal is obtaining the Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE), which is the registration certificate for European Union citizens. This guide will explain how to get your CRUE, covering common questions like where to apply, what documents you need, and how much it costs.
If you’re an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen planning to stay in Portugal for more than three months, you need to register for the CRUE to legally reside in the country. Without it, staying longer than three months can result in fines ranging from €400 to €1,500, as mentioned by eportugal.gov.pt.
The Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE) is a residency certificate required for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who intend to live in Portugal for more than three months. This document serves as proof of legal residence in Portugal and must be obtained within 30 days after the first three months of staying in the country. It is issued by the local city hall (Câmara Municipal) and requires presenting identification, proof of address, and evidence of financial stability.
Table of contents
How to get CRUE online?
1. Visit the Local Municipal Building or Citizens Services Center
In order to acquire your Certificate of Residency CRUE in Portugal (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia), your first step should be to pay a visit to the Municipal Building (Câmara Municipal) of your city or the Citizens Services Center (Loja Cidadao) in Portugal. This step should be based on your residential address within Portugal.
2. Secure the appropriate queue number
Selecting the correct queue ticket is crucial to expedite your process. Picture the frustration of standing in line, only to find you’ve been waiting for the wrong service and needing to begin from scratch. Sadly, such scenarios are all too common. When applying for your CRUE Certificate of Residency, ensure to obtain a ticket under the category “European Citizen” (Cidadão Europeu) to avoid such mishaps.
3. Specify the purpose of your application
When completing the application for your Certificate of Residency in Portugal (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia), the initial step is to specify why you’re applying. Be careful to choose the correct reason! Based on your circumstances, you can select from the following options:
- Initial application;
- Change of address;
- Renewal.
4. Submit the necessary documents
To acquire your Certificado do Registo of Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE Certificate of Residency), begin by determining your status: whether you’re a worker, retiree, or student. You’ll need to supply a valid form of identification (an ID card or passport). Additionally, depending on your situation, you’ll also need to present:
- Proof of residence in Portugal (for example, a rental contract, a certificate from the local parish council (certificado de residência junta de freguesia), or proof of real estate purchase).
- Evidence of financial sustainability (a statement proving you have sufficient funds to maintain yourself in Portugal). This could be a bank statement showing a minimum balance of €9,840 (€820 per month for 12 months) or your work contract.
- If you’re a student, you’ll need to provide confirmation of your enrollment in a recognized private or public educational institution.
5. Obtain your payment ticket
You’ll need to secure a ticket, which will enable you to pay the necessary state fees. Hand over the documents you’ve previously collected to the counter personnel, who will then generate an invoice for you.
6. Pay the required fees
You’re nearly there! Hand over the requested €16 fee at the counter and crucially, make sure to retain the receipt! You’re just a step away from obtaining your Certificado do Registo of Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE). This fee applies each time you renew your CRUE, make a simple address change, or if you misplace your current Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia.
7. Return to the initial desk
Go back to the initial desk and present the receipt you just received. There’s no need to stand in line again, as your turn is still valid and the official will be awaiting your return with the receipt. You’re on the verge of completion! Your Certificate of Residency CRUE (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) will be in your hands soon!
8. Append your signature
The only step left is to affix your signature to the document and you’ll be able to walk away with your CRUE Certificate of Residency (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) at last. This certificate will enable you to register or identify yourself with various authorities and administrative services.
