AIMA has rejected 23,000 residency applications.

23,500 immigrants have had their residence permit application rejected by AIMA, of which 4,500 have already been notified to voluntarily leave the country within 20 days.

AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum)

As Portugal continues to tackle its immigration backlog, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) has released updated figures showing significant progress, but also highlighting thousands of rejected applications and voluntary departure notices. With the mission structure of AIMA approaching its June 3rd deadline, here’s a detailed overview of the latest developments.

123,000 Residence Permits Approved by AIMA

According to an official government source cited by Expresso, 123,000 residence permits have been approved, representing 27.5% of the 446,921 expressions of interest (manifestação de interesse) initially pending.

This progress reflects AIMA’s intensified efforts since it took over immigration processing from SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).

171,000 Applications Cancelled Due to Non-Payment

A significant portion of the backlog—171,000 applications—was cancelled due to non-payment, leaving 275,000 valid expressions of interest. These applicants had their biometric data collected, and out of this group:

• 44.7% were approved for a residence card.

• 117,000 cases are still pending final decisions, though all have already been distributed to instructors or are under review.

23,500 Applications Rejected, 4,500 Ordered to Leave

While thousands have secured their residency, AIMA rejected 23,500 residence permit applications. Alarmingly, 4,500 of these individuals have already been notified to leave the country within 20 days under the voluntary return process.

Just last week, the Minister of the Presidency cited 18,000 rejected applications, but new data reveals this number has since grown, and is expected to rise further as the Mission Structure of AIMA concludes on June 3.

What This Means for Immigrants in Portugal

The rapid acceleration of approvals is encouraging, but the increase in rejections highlights the need for immigrants to ensure their documentation, payments, and application steps are in order.

Those who received rejection notices should consult legal assistance or immigration support services immediately, especially if they have the option to appeal or correct application errors.

Final Phase: What to Expect Next from AIMA

As the Mission Structure of AIMA winds down, more decisions are expected in the coming weeks. Whether the structure will be extended or AIMA will transition into a new phase remains to be seen.

Applicants should:

• Regularly check their AIMA portal for updates.

• Stay informed about deadlines and required actions.

• Seek expert help if facing rejection or delays.

Conclusion

The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) has made measurable progress in reducing the immigration backlog in Portugal, with over 123,000 residence permits issued. However, with 23,500 rejections and many facing orders to leave the country, the pressure is high as the June 3rd deadline approaches.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and seek guidance if you're navigating the Portuguese immigration system.