I've heard the SEF now has a new system that allows one to get an appointment without a prior request, is that true?
That is indeed a new possibility, which was just announced. However, at the moment, it is working under an experimental regime only in one of SEF’s facilities (Coimbra), on Saturdays, and is subject to a ticket system, which are issued on the spot and is limited to six people. As such, and even with this experimental system, the most guaranteed way for you to secure your appointment would be by the regular means (after receiving a notice from SEF once you are approved on their online system).
The Immigration Office (SEF) will implement, from January 8, a pilot project of assistance without prior appointment in two offices in Coimbra City, through the delivery of a limited number of slots for renewal and concession of residence permits, residence permits under the European community regime and residence permit under the ARI (Golden Visa) (concession, renewal and family reunification). This way, at the Coimbra Regional Delegation's on Saturdays, from 8.30am to 1.30pm, six slots will be given to Golden Visa holders. SEF is also notifying by chronological order the concession applicants, giving them access to the calendar to book an appointment aiming to solve all 2020 pending applications.
On January 5, 2021, the SEF launched a pilot project in Coimbra, on Saturdays, without prior scheduling, with the delivery of a limited number of tickets for the renewal of the residence permit, granting of residence under the EU regime and residence permit under the investment activity regime - golden visa - concession, renewal and family reunification. This project did not have a long life, it started on January 8, and was suspended on the 20th.
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