I’ll update the post later, but here is the information:
- Yes, all processes for automatic online renewal (Jan 2023 onwards) are done using the sef.pt website. Completely ignore the ARI website for online renewal. It’s a totally different system.
- The payment advice (documento unico cobranca, DUC) is generated immediately on the sef.pt site after you apply for online renewal. It is also sent to the registered mail address associated with the sef.pt account. It has a unique reference number which must be quoted while making payment. There is no payment portal as such; you can make the payment using ATMs or internet banking. (It is the same procedure one uses for paying taxes in Portugal after filing the model 3 tax form and getting a payment advice.) Pay 48 hours after receiving the DUC as it may take that long for the reference number to be active in the system.
You can always send the DUC pdf to your lawyer and have them make the payment.
This is what the DUC pdf says, translated:
Payment can be made through the ATM, the Internet and credit institutions, using the indicated reference.
To make the payment by the ATM, you must select the following option: ³PAGES AND OTHER SERVICES ± State and Public Sector ± Payments to the State´
To make the payment through the internet use your bank’s online service and select payments to the state.
This document is only valid when accompanied by proof of payment.
The DUC is available for payment two business days after the date of issue.
Rough timelines I experienced are in this post: ARI Holders (Stage 5) - #292 by minimaxr mileage varies.