The establishment of the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) marked a new chapter in Portugal’s immigration policy. Replacing the former Portuguese Borders and Immigration Service (SEF), AIMA aims to streamline and humanize the process of managing immigration and asylum services.
At least, that was the initial aim. Unfortunately, there is still a major backlog of cases and now people have resorted to taking AIMA to court in order to get appointments. This has lead to people being able to get appointments, however, there are legal fees to pay (around €795 + VAT based on the lawyers at visas.pt that we spoke with. Costs may vary with other firms). Obviously, not everyone can afford this but for those that can, it’s potentially a golden ticket to jump the line.
What about everyone else?
In response to the growing immigration backlog, Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) has launched a dedicated task force.
Here’s what you need to know:
The Goal
AIMA aims to resolve all outstanding applications by June 2025. This ambitious target reflects the Portuguese government’s commitment to streamlining the immigration process.
Task Force Structure
The task force is divided into two teams:
- Digital Processing Team: Responsible for analyzing and processing pending applications electronically.
- In-Person Services Team: Focuses on face-to-face services and collecting biometric data from immigrants awaiting regularization.
Resources and Expansion
To meet its objectives, AIMA is significantly expanding its capabilities:
- New Hires: 300 additional personnel, including 100 specialists, 150 technical assistants, and 50 operational assistants.
- Service Centers: 30 new centers will be opened across Portugal to improve accessibility.
Leadership’s Commitment
Luís Goes Pinheiro, AIMA’s President, has publicly committed to processing all applications within the established timeframe by summer 2025.
Is AIMA simply SEF with a different name?
For those waiting for processes to be approved (and some have been waiting since AIMA was SEF), all of this may seem very familiar. However, there are some key differences.
According to Lisbon-based lawyer Sandra Gomes Pinto, “In the beginning, we thought AIMA would essentially be SEF but with a different name, especially given that the staff and offices were the same. However, we have started to notice some procedural changes, particularly where AIMA is intervening earlier in residency applications.”
Similarly, there have been some structural changes.
With the establishment of AIMA, several responsibilities have been redistributed among different bodies:
- The Judiciary Police (PJ) will handle inspection staff and deal with illegal immigration and human trafficking.
- The Public Security Police (PSP) and National Republican Guard (GNR) will oversee airport and maritime/land border control, respectively.
- The Institute of Registration and Notary (IRN) will be responsible for electronic passports, temporary passports, and renewals of residency permits, with the exception of specific cases handled by AIMA.
Of course, for those waiting for appointments, all of this will be immaterial.
What This Means for Applicants
If you’re currently in the system or planning to apply, this initiative could potentially speed up your application process. However, it’s important to remain patient as the backlog is substantial. Alternatively, you may want to consider taking legal action.
Scott Kirk owner of visas.pt says, “My suggestion is anyone who is interested should do this right away as it’s just going to get busier and these cases will always have priority over individuals applying themselves.”
While AIMA’s efforts are promising, the effectiveness of this task force remains to be seen. Applicants should stay informed about updates and continue to follow proper procedures for their immigration processes.
Looking to discuss your AIMA situation? Get in touch today.