Portugal is facing an alarming situation when it comes to processing residence permits. Currently, more than 500,000 people are awaiting legalization, many already living in the country, while the Agency for Migration (AIMA), which is responsible for this process, is accumulating a backlog that seems to have no end directly impacting requests for residence permits in Portugal.
Delays and their consequences
Portuguese law is clear: AIMA must process applications for residence permits in Portugal within a maximum of 90 working days. However, this deadline is rarely respected, putting applicants in a precarious situation. Without proper legalization, immigrants are deprived of fundamental rights, such as access to work, health and education. This reality represents a violation of the most basic rights of foreign citizens.
The alternative: seeking legal action
When the state fails to fulfill its role, it is natural for citizens to resort to the means available to guarantee their rights. In this case, and according to our experience, recourse to the courts has proved to be an effective tool for many who are waiting for a swift and fair solution in obtaining residence permits in Portugal.
Several examples show that this route can significantly speed up the process, guaranteeing compliance with deadlines and protecting the rights of those seeking regularization. Talk to our immigration experts.
