Independent information for migrants in PortugalChecked 20/08/2026
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Home›Routes›I want to seek asylum / international protection
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International protection is different from ordinary immigration.

Asylum is not an alternative work visa or ordinary residence permit. It is designed for people seeking international protection and follows its own AIMA/CNAR procedure.

Checked 20/08/2026Official-source links
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Who this page is for

I want to seek asylum / international protection

  • People wishing to express an intention to seek international protection in Portugal.
  • People in Portuguese territory or at a border point who need protection.
  • Anyone who needs to distinguish asylum/international protection from ordinary migration regularisation.
Important

Do not mix legal routes

Do not use an asylum application simply because another immigration route is difficult. International protection exists for situations of persecution, risk and protection defined by law.
Your route, step by step

What to check first

01

Express the intention clearly

AIMA's official guide states that the intention can be expressed orally or in writing without delay.

02

Preferably at CNAR/AIMA

The official guide points to CNAR/AIMA, Rua Álvaro Coutinho 14, Lisbon.

03

It can also be expressed to police authorities

PSP, GNR, Maritime Police and border authorities can receive the request and communicate it to CNAR/AIMA.

04

AIMA examines the application

CNAR registers and examines; the decision is made by AIMA under the international-protection procedure.