AIMA Receives €5.97 Million to Expedite Residency Applications

On 21st of January 2025, the Portuguese government approved a grant of 5.97 million euros to the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA). This funding is intended to address the backlog of 400,000 pending residence application cases and streamline the resolution process.

This funding was outlined in Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 7/2025 and published in Diário da República, the official gazette.

The funding is allocated to the ongoing enhancement of AIMA's operations, with the objective of reducing the backlog of pending cases to zero by 30th of June 2025.

Since September 2024, AIMA has implemented various initiatives to address the backlog of 400,000 pending residency cases, starting with the establishment of new service centres.

These centres are characterised by their provision of linguistic support and the integration of resources from various public entities to increase assistance for immigrants. They also include Social Security services and collaboration with migration associations recognised as non-governmental organisations. Often organised based on the cultural backgrounds of their members, these associations play a crucial role in safeguarding immigrants' rights and promoting their social well-being as they establish their new lives.

It is important to note that these centres are temporary and are scheduled to operate until 2nd of June 2025.

In the final months of 2024, we published an article defining the changes implemented by the AIMA Agency and the current challenges it faces. The article provides a detailed overview of the adjustments made by the agency, along with insights into Portuguese immigration regulations.

In the case of Golden Visa residency applications, AIMA has also refined its management approach through digitalisation, aiming to expedite the application process. The focus is on processing as many applications as possible during the first half of 2025.

AIMA has also established partnerships with municipalities and the previously mentioned non-governmental organisations to decentralise and optimise the services offered.

The 5.97 million euros allocated will be distributed as follows: 1.63 million euros will be assigned to municipalities for the establishment of service centres in their regions, while the remaining 4.34 million euros will be directed to non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The funds will be used to finance investments in technology for collecting biometric data from residency applicants, as well as to hire additional personnel for document screening at service centres.

The 5.97 million euros will be obtained from the 58 million euros already raised by AIMA through fees paid by immigrants undergoing regularisation processes. AIMA will oversee the allocation of these funds in accordance with the expenditures delineated in the 2024-2025 multi-year budget, financed using its own resources.

Through this initiative, Portugal reaffirms its dedication to addressing the challenges faced by foreigners wishing to reside here, while fostering social inclusion. It aims to promote a more efficient and compassionate system to meet the needs of the foreign population.

If you are a foreigner seeking guidance with your immigration process, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to provide expert advice and help you navigate the best course of action.