AIMA Appointments Surge 60% as Portugal Overhauls Immigration System
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- Appointments at AIMA offices increased by 60% during the first six months of 2026.
- The government claims that over 98% of the accumulated backlog of approximately one million cases has been resolved.
- Officials describe the overhaul as one of the largest operations in Portuguese public administration history, reorganizing residence permits and talent attraction.
Significant Rise in AIMA Activity
Rui Armindo Freitas, Secretary of State for the Presidency and Immigration, reported that appointments at AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum) offices increased by 60% during the first six months of 2026. This significant rise indicates a substantial acceleration in the processing of immigration cases across the country.
Clearing the Backlog
Speaking during a hearing on the 2027 State Budget, Freitas argued that the current government has carried out a "profound reform of immigration policy in Portugal," fulfilling its campaign commitments. He criticized the previous administration for deregulating the system, leaving services in a state of collapse with "around one million cases accumulated." However, he stated that more than 98% of these pending cases have now been resolved.
Reorganization and New Legislation
The official described the government's response as one of the "largest operations in the history of Portuguese public administration." Freitas explained that responsibilities have been reorganized, covering areas such as talent attraction, residence permit renewals, and returns. Additionally, essential legislation has been approved to regulate all immigration channels and ensure the rights of those with legal status, aiming to restore the state's capacity and public trust.