Residence Card and Immigration
Objective: Understand your status of residence, card and re-entry rules.
Documents and essentials
- Current Residence Card
- Passport
- Photograph (for renewals or replacements)
- Notification form from Immigration Services Agency
What actually happens
- 1Understand your Status of Residence
Your card lists the status, period of stay and expiry date — check it now so nothing surprises you later.
- 2Carry the card at all times
Adults must carry the Residence Card whenever they leave home; police can request it during routine checks.
- 3Report changes within 14 days
Address, name, nationality, employer or school changes must be reported to Immigration or City Hall within 14 days.
- 4Plan renewals early
Apply for extension or change of status up to 3 months before the expiry date to avoid overstaying.
Say these when it matters
Set a calendar reminder 90 days before your Residence Card expires — Immigration allows early renewal from that point.
Losing your Residence Card must be reported to the police and Immigration within 14 days — carry a copy separately as backup evidence.
One quick question
Who must always carry their Residence Card?