One can only apply for a residence in Portugal if, in their country of origin, they are not convicted of a crime which in Portugal’s legal framework would have a one-year minimum imprisonment sentence. If this criterion is not met, the application for a temporary residence permit will most likely be refused by the Portuguese authorities. Assault and defacement is a crime that, in Portugal’s current legal framework, is punishable with an imprisonment sentence of up to 3 years. However, as the crime is already time-barred (5 year period), it shouldn’t jeopardize your application. However, we would advise you to check this information with your local authorities, consulate or embassy, and request for the removal of any criminal information from your record due to the possibility of the U.S. authorities communicating this fact. As such, if your criminal record has no registered convictions inscribed in it, it is likely that your application for a temporary residence permit in Portugal shouldn’t face any issues related to this matter.
