Timor-Leste permanent residence

Most foreigners reach permanent residence after years on a Temporary Resident Permit Type A, which is valid two years and renewed on equal terms; six years on such a permit is enough. Spouses of Timorese citizens usually hold a temporary permit for family reunification first, and become eligible once the marriage has lasted more than five years. Minor children and dependants of Timorese citizens can apply without the conditions on criminal history, subsistence, purpose and contribution.

You qualify if you have been a legal resident for at least ten consecutive years, are a minor child of or dependent on a Timorese citizen, have been married to a Timorese citizen for more than five years, or have held a temporary residence permit for at least six years. In addition, during that residence you must not have been sentenced for crimes to more than one year of prison in total, must have kept adequate accommodation and subsistence and be expected to continue doing so, must declare a purpose consistent with your documents, and must have made a positive contribution to the economy or social welfare. The last four conditions do not apply to minors dependent on Timorese citizens.

Applicants submit a copy of the passport, the completed and signed residence permit form, the marriage certificate where applicable, a declaration from the village chief (Chefe do Suco), an original medical certificate from HNGV (the national hospital), a certificate of good conduct or police clearance, photographs (two 3x4 cm and one 2x3 cm on white background), a copy of the previous resident card, evidence of the required period of residence and evidence of the positive contribution. Spouses and dependants of citizens add the citizen's Timor-Leste birth certificate and a colour copy of the voter registration card.

Applications are lodged in person at the Migration Service headquarters in Vila Verde, Dili, with the USD 150 fee. Copies presented together with originals are certified free of charge by the immigration officer, so external certification is needed only where specifically requested.

The permanent permit has no limit to its validity, allows unlimited stay and multiple entries, and carries no restriction on work, business or study. A lost or damaged card is replaced for USD 25.