The number of residence permits in Portugal soared in 2025, but the arrival of new immigrants dropped by half.

According to data from the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), 386,463 residence permits were issued by October 22 — a 60% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The figures were released by Pedro Portugal Gaspar, president of AIMA’s board, in an interview with Antena 1 and Jornal de Negócios.

More permits, fewer arrivals

Much of the increase is linked to applications submitted before the elimination of the “manifestation of interest” mechanism in June 2024.

That process allowed immigrants already living and working in Portugal to regularize their status but was abolished with the reform of the Immigration Law.

Despite progress in pending cases, AIMA’s president confirmed that the trend of roughly a 50% reduction in new arrivals remains. “As in 2024, this year will continue the reduction in the number of immigrants entering the country,” said Gaspar.

New immigration law tightens criteria

The decline in arrivals is expected to continue under the new immigration regime, enacted by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on October 16. Among the main changes is the limitation of job-seeking visas to “qualified work,” effectively making access more restrictive.

With fewer visas issued, AIMA also expects lower revenues, as part of its funding comes from fees charged in immigration procedures.

When asked about potential adjustments, Gaspar avoided confirming any increases but admitted there might be “updates to the amounts charged.”

Renewal portal reduces queues

Despite the pressure, AIMA celebrates technological progress. The Renewal Portal, launched in 2025, has already prevented between 32,000 and 33,000 people from having to visit AIMA offices in person.

Gaspar said the digital system helped ease service counters and that the institution continues to adapt to new demands. “AIMA will adjust to the legal changes, especially regarding visa types,” he assured.

Calls and customer service

Not all news is positive. According to AIMA’s president, 20% of phone calls received by the agency in the first months of 2025 were unanswered.

The number may seem high, but considering around 300,000 calls, it is still deemed “within expectations” by management.

Gaspar also commented on lawsuits filed with the Administrative and Tax Court due to appointment delays, emphasizing that AIMA “has never been condemned,” having responded positively to all cases.

More staff to meet demand

With more than 770 employees currently, AIMA increased its workforce by 10% over the past year.

Pedro Portugal Gaspar acknowledges, however, that the number is still insufficient to meet rising demand and advocates for new reinforcements in 2026.

The goal is to ensure faster service and greater efficiency, especially under the new migration rules and ongoing digitalization of services.