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AIMA Takes Over: Managing the SEF Transition in 2024
The newly established AIMA agency faces the challenge of absorbing SEF functions while addressing significant immigration backlogs inherited from the predecessor agency.
The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) is now operational, having taken over immigration functions from the disbanded SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).
The Transition Challenge
AIMA has inherited:
- Significant backlogs of pending residence permit applications
- Thousands of renewal requests awaiting processing
- Complex cases requiring investigation or additional documentation
Structural Changes
The transition involves significant reorganization:
- Border Control: Transferred to PSP and GNR police forces
- Administrative Functions: Now handled by AIMA
- Criminal Investigation: Moved to Polícia Judiciária for serious cases
Applicant Impact
For those with pending applications:
- All applications submitted to SEF are now processed by AIMA
- Case numbers and references remain valid
- No need to resubmit applications or documentation
- Processing times may be extended during transition period
Looking Forward
AIMA’s mandate includes:
- Clearing inherited backlogs within reasonable timeframes
- Implementing more efficient digital systems
- Improving service delivery at regional offices
- Coordinating with consulates on visa processing
The transition represents Portugal’s commitment to modernizing its immigration system, though patience will be required as the new agency establishes its operations.