Embarking on a journey to live in the sun-soaked landscapes of Portugal, amid its rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse culture, is a dream cherished by many EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. And for such enthusiasts, the Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia, popularly known as CRUE, plays a pivotal role in their transition to Portuguese residency. This article aims to simplify this crucial process, offering an easy-to-follow guide on acquiring your CRUE – a tangible step towards living the life you dream of in Portugal. Also, in this topic you can find an answer for question: “Where I should go to get CRUE?”, “I`m looking for NHR and tax office ask me for CRUE, how to get it?”, “How much cost to get CRUE?”, “What documents I need to get to get CRUE?” and any other.
Applying for residency in Portugal, for citizens hailing from the EU/EEA/Switzerland, is typically less intricate than it is for their non-EU counterparts, thanks to the right of residency they enjoy. Conceptually, the process appears simple: it is theoretically as uncomplicated as relocating to Portugal. Nonetheless, the practicalities might surprise you with occasional requests for seemingly unrelated documents.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens seeking their CRUE. If, however, you’re an individual from a region outside of these, you will likely require a residency visa, a process typically undertaken before your relocation to Portugal.
With your European citizenship confirmed through a valid identity card or passport, you have the right to reside in Portugal without taking extraordinary measures. However, should you intend to permanently settle in this stunning country, you will need to register as a European resident of Portugal. The CRUE is an essential document you need to acquire within 30 days following the end of your initial “free” three months in the country.
“Remaining in Portugal for more than 3 months without applying for the registration certificate may lead to a fine of between EUR 400 and EUR 1 500.” – noted at eportugal.gov.pt
In the following sections, we will outline the steps to procure your Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia in Portugal, taking you a step closer to making Portugal your home.
What steps should I do to get CRUE?
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.
