Immigration

"Uncertainty is making it difficult to move forward with my business in Portugal," says entrepreneur

A Pakistani citizen who obtained a Startup Visa to open a company in Portugal reports that delays by AIMA in issuing her residency permit are hindering her business operations.

Why it matters

If you are a migrant entrepreneur on a Startup Visa, this highlights the ongoing operational and legal difficulties caused by AIMA's residency permit processing delays, which can directly affect your ability to conduct business in Portugal.

Público· 4h agoRead original ↗

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Immigration

"For the first time, immigration pays for the costs of immigration"

Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stated during a budget hearing that the state budget for 2027 fully covers AIMA's operational and integration costs, including Portuguese language courses, through fees paid by immigrants. He also asserted that immigrants contribute significantly more to the Social Security system than they receive in benefits, citing data showing that foreign nationals account for less than 4% of social assistance beneficiaries.

Observador· 2h agoRead original ↗

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Immigration

Portugal to announce foreigners' integration plan

The government confirmed that the National Integration Plan for Foreigners is scheduled for approval in November 2026. The plan aims to integrate foreign residents through participation from municipalities, businesses, and civil society, and will be financed by immigrant fees and European funds.

The Portugal News· 5h agoRead original ↗

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Immigration

Can a lawyer skip the line at public services?

Lawyers hold the prerogative of priority service at public entities like AIMA, IRN, IMT, Finanças, and Segurança Social because they act as representatives for clients who are often unable to wait in line due to employment, family, or health constraints. While protocols exist between the Bar Association and these institutions to streamline administrative processes, these agreements are procedural guidelines rather than absolute laws that can be used to deny service. Abuse of this privilege occurs when lawyers attempt to secure extra slots for unauthorized individuals, exacerbating public frustration and negative perceptions of professional conduct.

Diário de Notícias· 10h agoRead original ↗

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