Why are there delays in processing visas in Portugal?
Delays in visa processing in Portugal can be attributed to several factors, including the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in immigration services. The disbandment of the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) has led to significant strain on the Agency for Immigration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), which is currently handling an increased volume of pending cases. Recent legislative updates, specifically Decree-Law no. 41-A/2024, were developed to provide immediate relief and a pathway for smoother processing of renewals by extending the validity of visas until June 30, 2025. In light of these delays, it is essential for residents to proactively manage their immigration status and stay informed about current procedures and timelines. Engaging with reliable information sources and consulting professionals in this area can make the renewal process less daunting. The government’s recognition of these delays indicates a commitment to supporting the foreign community in Portugal during these transitional periods. Keeping your documents ready and scheduling appointments well in advance of deadlines can significantly ease potential waiting times. By understanding the causes of these delays, you can better prepare and navigate your own circumstances accordingly. Moreover, continued dialogue with local expat networks may uncover shared tips and solutions to expedite your visa-related concerns. It’s prudent to seek professional help if your situation is particularly complex or urgent. Check in regularly for updates on governmental actions to resolve these delays in processing. For further assistance, feel free to get in touch; we are here to guide you through these challenges.
The prolonged and disorganized process of abolishing the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF);
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which initially slowed down administrative processes;
More recently, the inability of the Agency for Immigration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) to effectively manage and control the increase in the volume of pending cases.
Given this context, and due to the particular inability to currently guarantee an adequate mechanism for the renewal of Residence Permits, the Portuguese Government, on June 25, 2024, approved the extension of the validity of the aforementioned documents for another year. In accordance with the government decision, on June 28, 2024, Decree-Law no. 41-A/2024, came into force, a diploma that appears with the aim of alleviating the current administrative burden and guaranteeing time for migration services so that they can be reorganized, improving their efficiency in handling requests from foreign citizens.
Main Provisions of Decree-Law no. 41-A/2024 – regarding the amendment of article 16 of Decree-Law no. 10-A/2020, of March 13:
Validity extension until June 30, 2025:
"Documents and visas relating to stay in national territory, which validity expires from the date of entry into force of this decree-law or in the 15 days immediately preceding, are accepted, under the same terms, until June 30, 2025."
Provisions for after June 30, 2025:
Furthermore, as previously decreed, the extension includes the possibility that "The documents referred to in the previous paragraph continue to be accepted, under the same terms, after June 30, 2025, as long as their holder provides proof that they have already carried out the scheduling of the
respective renewal.".
Mariana Antunes Silva
Lawyer at Martínez-Echevarría & Ferreira
