Problems with AIMA: How an Immigration Lawyer Can Resolve Your Processes in Portugal

Immigrating to Portugal can be a process filled with challenges, particularly when dealing with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), the successor to SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service).

If you are an immigrant struggling to obtain or renew your residence permit, or if you have been waiting for family reunification for months, know that these are common problems — but they can be resolved with the right help.

In this article, we will discuss the main issues immigrants face in Portugal regarding AIMA and how a specialized lawyer can be the key to overcoming these obstacles efficiently.

Main Problems with AIMA Affecting Immigrants

The lack of structure within AIMA is one of the biggest pain points faced by immigrants in Portugal. Many people are stuck in an endless cycle of waiting, unable to get responses or move forward with their cases.

Here are some of the most frequent challenges:

1. Difficulty in Scheduling Appointments

The scheduling process at AIMA is one of the most critical points. Immigrants must book an appointment by phone. However, often there are no available slots, leaving people with no clear timeline for getting assistance. Without this appointment, it is impossible to move forward with residence permit renewal processes or family reunification requests.

2. Delays in Issuing and Renewing Residence Permits

Another recurring problem is the delay in AIMA issuing or renewing residence permits. There are reports of immigrants waiting for over a year for a response. This delay can lead to serious consequences, such as difficulties in working, studying, or accessing essential services.

3. Lack of Response to Emails and Pending Processes

In addition to the difficulties with phone and in-person service, AIMA is notorious for not responding to emails efficiently, which exacerbates the frustration of immigrants. There are more than 400 pending processes, with no clear solution or timeline for progress.

4. Difficulties with Family Reunification

Many immigrants in Portugal wish to bring their families to the country through family reunification. However, the lack of available appointment slots and the delay in processes make this goal almost unattainable for many. Without proper assistance, families remain separated for months or even years.

How a Specialized Lawyer Can Help

The good news is that these problems can be solved more efficiently with the help of a specialized immigration lawyer. The lawyer knows the legal deadlines and rules that AIMA must follow and can act both administratively and judicially to ensure that your rights are respected.

1. Administrative Intervention

Through administrative channels, a lawyer can directly engage with AIMA, forcing a response and follow-up on the case. Unlike standard emails, which are often ignored, AIMA is required to respond to requests made by lawyers. This ensures that your case receives the necessary attention and doesn’t remain stagnant.

2. Judicial Process

If AIMA continues to fail to meet deadlines or refuses to issue a decision on your case, a lawyer can file a lawsuit to demand that the agency fulfill its legal obligations. This is an effective solution for those who have been waiting a long time without answers.

3. Family Reunification

In cases of family reunification, a lawyer can help expedite the process and ensure that the family’s rights are respected, shortening the waiting time and increasing the chances of success in the application.

When to Seek a Lawyer?

If you have been waiting for a response from AIMA for months, if you cannot schedule an appointment, or if your residence permit renewal is delayed, it’s time to consider seeking help from an immigration lawyer. The lawyer can ensure that your process moves forward and that you get the result you expect within the legal deadlines.

Additionally, a lawyer can assist you with:

• Updating personal data with AIMA
• Naturalization and citizenship processes
• Advising on work and study visas
• Legal representation in case of denial of requests

Conclusion

The lack of structure at AIMA is a problem that affects thousands of immigrants in Portugal, but it does not have to be an insurmountable obstacle. With the help of a specialized lawyer, you can overcome these issues, receive faster responses, and ensure that your rights are respected.

If you are facing difficulties with AIMA and need legal assistance, contact our law firm. We are ready to help you resolve your case quickly and efficiently, using our vast experience in immigration law.

Schedule a consultation now and find out how we can help you!

Adriano Martins Pinheiro | Immigration Lawyer in Portugal