the Portuguese government has launched a new immigrant service centre in Lisbon. The centre, which began operating on September 9, is expected to process 240 people daily, representing a 25% increase in response capacity. This ambitious initiative aims to tackle the staggering number of around 400,000 immigrant cases by June 2025.
A Long Overdue Solution
The launch of this centre is a breath of fresh air for foreign citizens who have been waiting for years, in some cases, for the Portuguese State to respond to their requests. The Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that this centre is a crucial step towards resolving a “very heavy legacy” and a “serious failure” by the Portuguese State towards 400,000 foreign citizens.
Streamlining the Process
To ensure a seamless experience for applicants, the centre has implemented a rigorous process. The estimated daily capacity of 240 people is a significant increase from the existing 1,000 services provided by AIMA across its network. However, applicants must present all necessary documentation to initiate the process. Those without passports will not be able to begin, while others can reschedule appointments if documentation is incomplete.
A Complex Operation
The centre’s operations involve around 120 people, including AIMA employees and volunteers from civil society organisations. The process is meticulous, verifying compliance with Portuguese law, including:
- Criminal record checks
- Employment relationships
- Legal requirements for working in Portugal
This thorough approach ensures that only those who comply with Portuguese rules and laws can live and work in the country.
The Road Ahead
While the launch of this centre is a significant milestone, there is still much work to be done. The Minister emphasized that the centre’s capacity is expected to increase significantly each week over the next few weeks. By the end of September and during the month of October, the centre aims to serve almost twice as many people as it does currently.
Upcoming Service Centres
To further amplify the impact, additional service centres are set to open across the country. These centres are already in advanced stages of finalisation and regulation, with some operating in partnership with local authorities. The Minister confirmed that these centres should start operating throughout the month, providing even more opportunities for foreign citizens to regularize their status.
| Centre Capacity | 240 people per day |
|---|---|
| Target Cases | 400,000 by June 2025 |
| Documentation Requirements | Passport and complete documentation |
| Operational Team | 120 people, including AIMA employees and volunteers |
| Upcoming Centres | Multiple centres across the country |
A New Era for Immigrant Integration
The launch of this centre marks a new era in immigrant integration in Portugal. By providing a streamlined process and increasing response capacity, the government is taking concrete steps towards resolving the backlog of cases. This initiative not only benefits foreign citizens but also strengthens the country’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive nation.
Conclusion
The new immigrant centre in Lisbon is a beacon of hope for the 400,000 foreign citizens waiting for their cases to be resolved. With its increased response capacity, streamlined process, and meticulous approach, this centre is poised to make a significant impact. As the government continues to open additional centres across the country, it is clear that a new era of immigrant integration has begun in Portugal.
