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Is a Passport and a Photo Alone Enough to Apply for a Residence Permit?

No, a passport and a photo alone are usually not enough for a complete residence permit application.

Citizenship and passport

Answer

No. A passport and photograph alone are usually insufficient for a complete residence-permit application. They may be needed for initial identification or to obtain certain confirmations, but applying for residence requires grounds, an application form, and additional documents concerning identity, income, family, and status.

Confusion arises because the same term is used for different stages. An adult may indeed need a passport, photograph, and proof of status for a cédula, but the card is not a decision on residence and does not replace an immigration case.

Before filing, distinguish the stages: entry, appointment, application, submission of further documents, decision and ID card. If someone promises processing “with a passport and photo”, clarify what action will be taken and which document the applicant will receive.

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