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PortugalWeek ending June 8, 2026

Weekly update on June 8, 2026: Portugal Immigration Updates: AIMA Progress, EU Lawsuit, and Draft Laws

PublishedBy Laura Ferreira · Editorial policy

Portugal reports progress on AIMA backlogs as thousands of cases are processed. Meanwhile, the EU initiates a lawsuit over immigration issues, and new draft laws receive praise from the Migration Council.

Portugal citizenshipresidency newsimmigration newsPortugal Golden VisaCIPLE A2AIMA

Key takeaways

  • AIMA is making progress on immigration backlogs, processing thousands of pending cases.
  • A recent strike by AIMA workers has not affected operations at public service points.
  • The European Union is suing Portugal over ongoing immigration issues.
  • AIMA and the Migration Council have praised the government's new immigration draft laws.
  • Applicants must navigate the 10-year legal residency requirement for citizenship and prepare for mandatory language exams.

AIMA Backlog Shows Signs of Progress

Portugal has announced positive movement regarding the ongoing immigration backlogs. According to recent reports, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) is moving forward, with thousands of pending cases now being processed.

This development offers a positive signal for expats, investors, and Golden Visa holders who have been waiting for their residency applications and renewals to be finalized by the agency.

AIMA Worker Strikes Spare Service Points

Despite the progress in processing cases, AIMA is currently navigating internal labor disputes. A strike by AIMA workers has been initiated, highlighting ongoing administrative challenges within the agency.

However, officials confirm that the strike is not affecting AIMA service points. Applicants with scheduled appointments or urgent administrative needs can expect service locations to remain operational for the time being.

EU Lawsuit and New Draft Laws

On the broader regulatory front, Portugal is facing legal pressure from the European Union. The EU is currently suing Portugal due to ongoing immigration issues, signaling potential scrutiny of the country's immigration frameworks.

Concurrently, the Portuguese government has introduced new draft laws aimed at addressing systemic challenges. Both AIMA and the Migration Council have publicly praised these proposed legislative changes, though the exact impact on future residency pathways remains to be seen as the proposals move through the legislative process.

Citizenship Timelines and Language Preparation

As administrative processing continues, prospective citizens must keep current legal requirements in mind. Under the Nationality Law signed on May 3, 2026, the standard legal residency period required for citizenship is 10 years. This is a statutory requirement and is entirely separate from any administrative processing delays at AIMA.

With a 10-year timeline to naturalisation, applicants have ample time to meet all criteria, including the mandatory Portuguese language proficiency requirement. Utilizing resources like Prep2Go can help future citizens effectively prepare for the required language exams well in advance of their application date.

Sources

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