In the first 3 months of stay in the country, citizens just need to have a valid identity card or passport. 

After this period, the certificate must be requested within 30 days, at the Lisbon City Hall and is valid for 5 years.

A second copy of the certificate may be requested to the Lisbon City Hall for the following reasons: 

• Change of data

• Loss

• Theft  

• Damage

The certificate may be renewed for periods up to 5 consecutive years. However, this period may be interrupted by reason of temporary absences, which meet the following requirements: 

• Do not exceed 6 consecutive months per year; 

• Compliance with the obligations of military service; 

• For 12 consecutive months (maximum), for justified reasons, such as pregnancy or childbirth, serious illness, studies or vocational training, or a posting - for professional reasons - to another Member State or third country.

After the end of the renewal for periods up to 5 consecutive years, the renewal shall be ensured by SEF - Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (Foreigners and Border Service) -    through prior appointment.