Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) has launched a significant enforcement action, notifying 4,574 foreign citizens to leave the country voluntarily within 20 days, starting this week in May 2025.
Announced by Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro, this initiative targets individuals living illegally in Portugal and begins to address 18,000 rejected residency applications.
Minister Leitão Amaro confirmed the action at a press conference in Lisbon, stating, “AIMA informed the Government that it is issuing 4,574 notifications for foreign citizens in an illegal situation to leave national territory.” These notifications are part of a broader effort to manage AIMA’s backlog of over 400,000 pending immigration cases, a challenge inherited from the former Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
The 4,574 individuals represent the initial group of 18,000 whose residency applications AIMA has rejected, often due to unpaid fees or incomplete documentation. Immigrants receiving these notices have 20 days to depart voluntarily, or they may face coercive deportation.
Why Are AIMA Notifications Being Issued?
AIMA, established in October 2023 to replace SEF, focuses on streamlining immigration processes and resolving administrative backlogs. Many rejections stem from procedural issues, such as failure to pay biometric fees or submit required documents. According to immigration lawyer Catarina Zuccaro, immigrants can appeal these decisions through administrative or judicial channels within 30 business days to three months, depending on the case. Prompt action is critical to avoid deportation.
The government emphasises compliance with legal frameworks, aiming to regularise eligible immigrants while addressing illegal residency. AIMA’s efforts align with Portugal’s commitment to efficient migration governance, though the agency faces criticism for delays and operational challenges.
Implications for Immigrants
For the 4,574 notified individuals, the 20-day voluntary departure window offers a chance to avoid harsher measures. Legal experts urge immigrants to act swiftly by:
- Appealing Decisions: Submit administrative or judicial appeals, supported by evidence like registered letters proving notification issues.
- Seeking Legal Aid: Consult immigration lawyers to navigate AIMA’s processes and protect rights.
- Gathering Documentation: Address missing documents or unpaid fees promptly to strengthen appeals.
The broader group of 18,000 rejected applicants and 110,000 pending cases highlights the scale of AIMA’s challenge. The agency aims to resolve all backlogs by June 30, 2025, through task forces and new service centres.
Public and Expert Reactions
The notifications have sparked debate. Immigrant advocates and the Migration Workers’ Union (STM) criticise AIMA for inefficiencies and retaining SEF’s management flaws, arguing that the process burdens vulnerable populations. Conversely, government officials, including AIMA President Pedro Portugal Gaspar, defend the actions as necessary to uphold legal standards while prioritising family reunification and regularisation for eligible applicants.
Posts on X reflect mixed sentiments. Some users highlight the human impact on communities like Nepali migrants, while others view the notifications as lawful enforcement.
How to Stay Informed
Immigrants facing notifications should monitor AIMA’s official communications and consult trusted sources. Key resources include:
- AIMA Official Website for updates on processes and appeals.
- Portugal Government Portal for migration FAQS.
- Legal aid organisations, such as those referenced by lawyer Larissa Belo, provide case-specific guidance.
AIMA’s notification of 4,574 immigrants is a pivotal step in addressing Portugal’s immigration backlog, with 18,000 rejections planned in the coming weeks. While the government aims to balance enforcement with integration, the process raises concerns about fairness and efficiency. By June 2025, AIMA’s success in clearing backlogs and supporting legal residents will shape Portugal’s migration landscape.
