Non-EU international student – enrollment cancelled in Portugal due to delayed equivalence
My university cancelled my enrollment because I couldn’t submit the Portuguese secondary education equivalence certificate within 20 working days. The problem is that this document cannot realistically be issued within that timeframe. I already submitted my 12th-grade certificate to a Portuguese secondary school, which must forward it to Lisbon to issue the equivalence. This process takes several months and is completely out of my control.
The university informed me that:
• Enrollment cannot be restored without the document
• No tuition refund (I paid the full academic year)
• Once I receive the equivalence, I can re-enroll and continue from the 2nd semester only
This situation has been extremely stressful, as I had no way to meet the deadline.
My AIMA appointment is scheduled for 27 May 2026.
Lawyer Answers
Tobarrak Law Chamber
Thank you for explaining your situation. We understand how stressful this is, especially where the delay is beyond your control.
Your case raises important legal and immigration issues, including the university’s deadline, refusal to restore enrollment or refund fees, and the potential impact on your AIMA appointment and residence status. A lawful remedy may be available, but this requires proper assessment.
We recommend an initial legal consultation at our chambers for a comprehensive review.
Initial Assessment Fee: BDT 10,000
Please prepare all relevant documents, including university correspondence, payment receipts, proof of equivalence application, and AIMA appointment details.
Following the consultation, we will advise you clearly on viable legal options and next steps.
Please let us know how you wish to proceed.
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