Portugal has taken a significant step towards improving services for migrant citizens. A regulatory decree has been published in the Diário da República which introduces changes to the regulation of the legal regime for the entry, stay, exit, and removal of foreign citizens from the national territory. The Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA) has been given new functions under this decree. AIMA was created on October 29th to replace the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) and the High Commissioner for Migrations (ACM). The GNR and PSP have now become the institutions responsible for border control.
The decree aims to modernize and simplify administrative procedures. This will ensure that AIMA can instruct and decide processes relating to the stay of foreign citizens in the national territory in a timely manner and with compliance requirements. With this new regulatory decree, it will also be possible to make digital services available on the AIMA Portal. This includes sending, receiving, and paying for residence permit applications, eliminating the need to schedule appointments and travel to physical locations. This change will free up employees from tasks without added value, such as the processing of payment of fees.
One of the main reasons for complaints from legal immigrants in Portugal has been related to family reunification processes. The new law addresses this issue by allowing digital applications for the granting and renewal of residence permits. These applications can also be made by employers, research centers, or educational establishments in which immigrants are included.
Overall, the new law represents Portugal’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all its residents. It simplifies and modernizes administrative procedures, making it easier for migrants to apply for and renew residence permits. It also addresses the issue of family reunification, a significant concern for many migrants.
