The Struggle for AIMA Appointments: Foreigners coming to Portugal Face Legal Challenges
The journey to regularizing one’s status in Portugal has become increasingly difficult for many due to a growing issue with AIMA (Agência para a Imigração e Mobilidade). AIMA’s inability to provide timely appointments has left countless expats in precarious legal situations, compelling many to pursue legal action as a last resort to secure their residence permits.
Legal Actions Against AIMA: A Path to Regularizing in Portugal
Recently, a significant number of immigrants have found success through legal actions against AIMA. These actions target the agency’s failure to process residence permit applications within a reasonable timeframe. This trend highlights a growing problem within Portugal's immigration system, as individuals resort to the courts to demand the fulfilment of basic administrative obligations.
A Growing Crisis of Irregularity
As AIMA struggles to keep up with the high demand for appointments, many foreigners find themselves in irregular or even illegal situations. Without the ability to submit their documents, undergo biometric data collection, or formalize their residence permits, these individuals face increasing uncertainty about their future in Portugal. The absence of residence permits makes them vulnerable to legal risks and potential marginalization from society, creating a desperate and chaotic environment for those seeking to establish a life in the country.
The Consequences of Appointment Delays
The lack of available appointments is causing immense stress for immigrants. The long wait times and the complete absence of any forecast for the opening of new slots have left people feeling helpless. With AIMA dealing with hundreds of thousands of pending cases, it is unlikely that new appointments will be available anytime soon. This delay has profound emotional and social consequences for those left in legal limbo, many of whom are living in constant fear of deportation or other legal consequences.
Breach of Portuguese Legislation
AIMA’s inability to provide appointments does more than inconvenience individuals—it violates Portuguese law. By failing to process applications for residence permits, family reunification, and renewals in a timely manner, the agency is not upholding its legal obligations. This non-compliance has driven many immigrants to initiate legal actions against the agency, demanding their right to an appointment and regularized status.
The Role of Legal Actions
Legal actions against AIMA primarily seek to compel the agency to provide immediate appointments for those affected. These actions are submitted to the judiciary by lawyers, who file requests on behalf of their clients. While many of these cases have succeeded, it is important to recognize that legal action does not guarantee an appointment. The final decision rests with the court and the complexity of each individual case. While the legal costs may seem unfair to some who expect better from AIMA, bringing a lawsuit against AIMA does remain one of the best options for obtaining an AIMA appointment.
The Process for AIMA Lawsuit
A consultation is initially held with the client, and if the lawyer determines that it is appropriate to proceed, the client grants power of attorney to the immigration lawyer who will handle the case. From there, the lawyer prepares and manages the case on behalf of the individual. There is no need for the client to appear in court, as the entire process can be handled remotely. Please note that lawsuits must be filed on an individual basis and cannot be processed for couples or families together.
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The situation with AIMA presents an immense challenge for those coming to Portugal, many of whom face uncertainty as they wait for appointments that may never materialize. Legal action has emerged as a critical alternative for those left without other options. While there is no guarantee, foreigners are typically able to receive an appointment within months of a successful lawsuit. While the system may be under strain, legal avenues offer hope for those determined to establish their future in Portugal.
Consultation with immigration lawyer
Granting Power of Attorney
Lawyer prepares and builds the case
Legal representation throughout the case
Live video chat with a Portuguese immigration lawyer to answer your questions