AIMA Portugal Appointment: Complete Guide
In October 2023 Portugal replaced SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) with a new agency called AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo). AIMA now handles all immigration procedures in Portugal – from visa applications to residence permit appointments and renewals. This agency was created to streamline immigration and reduce SEF’s backlog, but in practice AIMA is still overwhelmed with pending cases. More than 300,000 cases were inherited from SEF, and foreigners across the world (Brazilians, Indians, British, Angolans, etc.) are finding it hard to secure an appointment for residence permits and related procedures.
This guide explains what AIMA is, who needs to book an appointment, the full booking process, common issues, required documents, and best practices. We also highlight how MetConnect LDA can help you schedule AIMA appointments quickly and legally.
What is AIMA and Why Did SEF Change?
AIMA stands for Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum. It now manages foreign residency, visa renewals, and asylum processes in Portugal. In essence, anything that SEF used to do in terms of issuing residence permits is now under AIMA’s responsibility. The Portuguese government dissolved SEF in 2023 to address inefficiencies and improve trust in the system. For example, AIMA is tasked with processing visas and residence permits for immigrants, coordinating asylum cases, and modernizing the IT systems that SEF left behind.
As part of this reform, the traditional SEF offices have become “Lojas AIMA” (AIMA service shops) across the country. There are 34 such AIMA offices in Portugal, located in major cities and regions (for instance, Porto’s office is at Avenida de França 316, Edifício Capitólio). Appointments are required before visiting any Loja AIMA for residency matters. (Note: Border control duties are now split between other agencies like PSP/GNR and AIMA handles only immigration services.)
Who Needs an AIMA Appointment?
Foreigners who must appear in person at an AIMA office include:
Each category above may have slightly different required documents, but the fact remains: if you need a residency document or a renewal, you’ll be booking with AIMA.
The AIMA Appointment Booking Process
Challenges and Delays
AIMA is currently dealing with a huge backlog of cases – roughly 400,000 pending applications (about 4% of Portugal’s population). This backlog comes from the previous SEF system plus the new applications under AIMA. The result is extreme delays and very limited appointment slots. Many visa holders (new and renewing) find themselves in limbo for months waiting for an appointment.
According to immigration advisors, securing an AIMA appointment has become increasingly difficult due to high demand and limited availability. The system is still working through the SEF backlog while new applications keep coming. Technical errors or “no slot available” messages are common.
On the official side, AIMA has pledged to improve digital systems and hire staff, but until the backlog is resolved, frustrations persist. For example, the Portuguese Supreme Administrative Court ruled in June 2024 that AIMA must finalize pending cases within 90 working days, but many cases exceed that deadline due to sheer volume.
How to Book Step-by-Step
Despite these challenges, you should follow all official avenues to obtain an appointment. Here’s a step-by-step strategy:
The scarcity of appointment slots comes down to supply vs. demand. Hundreds of thousands of foreign residents all need AIMA services. Even with 34 offices nationwide, each handles only a limited number of daily appointments. Many established expat communities (Brazilians, Indians, Angolans, etc.) were awaiting renewals when the transition happened, effectively doubling the workload. Seasonal patterns also matter (e.g. post-holiday rush). The Portuguese government acknowledges this and is hiring more staff and improving systems to create more slots, but for now perseverance is essential.
Required Documents for Your AIMA Appointment
At the actual appointment, you must present all original documents and several copies. The general requirements (from official AIMA rules) include:
If you lack any document, consult with a qualified advisor (MetConnect can assist) to find alternatives or request extensions. Make copies of everything (except visa) and organize them in order. Having a complete file avoids last-minute delays.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your AIMA Appointment
MetConnect’s Professional Support
Securely navigating the AIMA booking system can be stressful and time-consuming. At MetConnect LDA, we are experts in Portuguese immigration procedures. Our team can handle the booking for you, including contacting AIMA, organizing paperwork, and ensuring nothing is missed. We offer dedicated AIMA appointment support, and can also assist with visa renewals and residence card services when you need them. If delays occur, our immigration legal support is on hand to protect your rights – for instance, we can help initiate legal actions (Ação de Intimação) to compel AIMA to finalize your case. In short, MetConnect is your trusted partner through every step of Portugal’s immigration process.
Don’t let AIMA hurdles slow you down. Contact MetConnect today for reliable, fast assistance in securing your appointment. Our experienced consultants will ensure your application is complete, your documents are correct, and your appointment is booked as soon as possible. With MetConnect, you get peace of mind and a direct line to expert help. Explore our AIMA Appointment Portugal page to get started, or learn more about our comprehensive Immigration & Visa Services.
FAQ: Common Questions
A Termo de Responsabilidade (responsibility agreement) is a form (Modelo 4) used when a resident in Portugal (e.g. parent or spouse) pledges financial support for the foreign applicant. A Carta-Convite (invitation letter) is similar, used primarily for tourists or short stays. Both demonstrate you have a local sponsor. These are filled out and signed during the AIMA process if required. (In Portuguese search trends, Brazilians often seek these terms.)
Yes. A Portuguese residency visa (D7, D2, etc.) only allows entry. You must still register with AIMA for your residence permit/card. Even if your visa came with an appointment, double-check it via MyAIMA. If none is given, book one immediately.
After the SEF change, no walk-ins are allowed for residence permits. All AIMA services require a prior online or scheduled appointment. Visiting a Loja AIMA without a booking will likely result in being turned away.
The central phone numbers are (+351) 217 115 000 (main line) or (+351) 965 903 700. Hours: weekdays 08:00–20:00. You can also email [email protected] for appointment requests, and use the official online forms on aima.gov.pt for scheduling.
Unfortunately, there is no public schedule. New slots depend on AIMA’s processing capacity. Many foreigners are still waiting for appointments for permit renewals, family reunification, and other categories. The best approach is to check frequently and use all contact methods. As a reminder, current Portuguese law automatically extends your visa/residency if it expires while waiting, so you remain legal in Portugal.