The Portuguese government will complete its transition of the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) and replace it with the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), which will start its operation on 29 October 2023. The reform, which was announced in March 2021, aimed to improve the efficiency and transparency of immigration and asylum management in Portugal, following a scandal involving the death of a Ukrainian citizen in SEF’s custody in 2020.
However, the changes will bring new difficulties and uncertainties for some immigrant communities in Portugal, especially the Nepalese, who are one of the fastest-growing expatriate groups in the country. According to the data from the Gabinete de Estratégia e Mar (GEE), there are more than 21,000 Nepalese living in Portugal, making them the 11th largest immigrant community in Portugal. Most of them reside in Lisbon, Algarve, and Porto and work in the agriculture, hospitality, and construction sectors.
Some Nepalese immigrants have complained that they have faced delays and obstacles in accessing legal services, such as renewing their residence permits, obtaining citizenship, or reporting cases of labour exploitation. They have also reported that they have encountered more discrimination and harassment from some authorities and employers, who are not familiar with their specific needs and challenges.
Some Nepalese associations have expressed their dissatisfaction with the transition process and claimed that they were not consulted or informed by the government. They have also demanded more support and protection from the AIMA and other entities involved in immigration and asylum matters.
The government has defended its reform and stated that it has ensured a smooth and successful transition of SEF’s functions to other entities, such as the Public Security Police (PSP), the National Republican Guard (GNR), and the Judiciary Police (PJ). It has also stressed that Portugal is a welcoming and tolerant country that respects diversity and multiculturalism.
The AIMA has promised to provide quality and timely services to all immigrants and asylum seekers in Portugal and to cooperate with various stakeholders, including immigrant associations, civil society organizations, and international partners. It has also pledged to promote the integration and inclusion of immigrants in Portuguese society.
source:theportugalnews.com2. theportugalnews.com3. theportugalnews.com4. portugal.com5. theportugalnews.com