On October 29, 2023, a significant transformation occurred within Portugal’s immigration framework: the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) commenced operations, effectively absorbing the duties previously managed by the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF). This transition marks a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to immigration, integration, and asylum processes.
Key Changes in Responsibilities:
- Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN): The IRN has now assumed the responsibility for issuing all categories of passports. Additionally, it is tasked with accepting applications for the renewal of temporary residence permits. Despite this, the conclusive authority to approve these renewals remains vested in AIMA.
- AIMA’s Expanded Role: AIMA’s jurisdiction encompasses a broad spectrum of functions, including:
- Renewal of Residence Permits in Special Cases: AIMA is designated to process and decide on renewals for individuals in exceptional circumstances, such as victims of human trafficking and those applying for investment-based permits, commonly referred to as Golden Visas.
- Extensions of Stay and Issuance of Residence Permits: The agency manages the granting of stay extensions and the issuance of various residence permits. Notably, the Passive Income Visa is among the options available for applicants seeking residency based on stable income sources.
- Renewals and Issuance of Residence Cards: AIMA handles the renewal of residence permits and the issuance of residence cards, including permanent residence cards for family members of third-country nationals who are citizens of European Union member states.
- Management of Permanent Residence Certificates: The agency is responsible for issuing permanent residence certificates to European Union citizens.
- Residence Permits for British Nationals: AIMA oversees the issuance of residence permits to British nationals covered under the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community.
- Issuance of Travel Documents: The agency provides travel documents to foreign citizens residing within the national territory.
- Enforcement of Immigration Laws: AIMA ensures compliance with administrative obligations as outlined in legislation governing the entry, stay, departure, and removal of foreigners from the national territory.
- Support at Border Crossing Points: The agency offers assistance at border crossings, particularly in visa issuance processes, and evaluates family reunification rights.
- Consultation on Consular Visa Applications: AIMA provides opinions on consular visa applications and engages in procedures related to Portuguese nationality.
- Asylum and Protection Procedures: The agency initiates, processes, and decides on applications for asylum, subsidiary protection, and temporary protection. This includes determining the admissibility of asylum requests, conducting necessary procedures to identify the state responsible for processing each application, and facilitating the transfer of applicants between European Union Member States.
Delegation of Powers:
Both AIMA and the IRN possess the authority to delegate their responsibilities to regional autonomous bodies and other public administration entities. This delegation is particularly pertinent for the renewal of Temporary Residence Permits, allowing for a more decentralized and efficient processing system.
Implications of the Transition:
The establishment of AIMA signifies a strategic reorganization aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Portugal’s immigration and asylum processes. By delineating responsibilities more clearly between AIMA and the IRN, the government seeks to streamline operations, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and provide more specialized services to applicants.
For individuals navigating the Portuguese immigration system, it is crucial to understand this new structure to ensure compliance and to take full advantage of the services offered. Whether seeking to renew a residence permit, apply for a new visa category, or understand the implications of these changes, staying informed is essential.
The transition from SEF to AIMA represents a comprehensive overhaul of Portugal’s approach to managing immigration, integration, and asylum. This change reflects the country’s commitment to adapting its administrative structures to better serve both its residents and newcomers. As AIMA continues to establish its operations, it is anticipated that these reforms will lead to more streamlined processes and improved services for all stakeholders involved.
For further inquiries or assistance regarding these developments, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the appropriate agencies or seek professional guidance to navigate the evolving landscape of Portuguese immigration law.
