If you’ve been struggling to book an appointment with AIMA, you’re not alone. Thousands of applicants are stuck in limbo, facing long delays and uncertainty. But there’s a solution that’s gaining traction: the AIMA lawsuit.
This legal route has become the fastest and most effective way to secure your long-awaited appointment — and finally move forward with your visa or residency process in Portugal.
What is the AIMA Lawsuit?
The AIMA lawsuit refers to legal actions taken against Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) due to significant delays in processing immigration applications, including residence permits and visas.
Frustrated by prolonged waiting times and administrative inaction, many applicants have turned to the courts to expedite their cases.
One common legal mechanism employed is the Subpoena for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms, and Guarantees. This process involves a lawyer submitting a petition; a judge should have 48 hours to decide on its acceptance or request additional documents.
Once accepted, AIMA is notified and given seven days to respond, after which the judge has five days to issue a ruling. If AIMA fails to comply, daily financial penalties may be imposed until the agency acts.
The Lisbon Administrative Court
The surge in such lawsuits has overwhelmed the Lisbon Administrative Court. For instance, in October 2024 alone, over 10,000 cases were filed against AIMA, averaging more than 400 per day.
By the end of 2024, there were approximately 46,824 pending immigration and asylum cases, a number 80 times higher than in 2023.
Despite these challenges, legal action remains a viable path for many seeking to advance their immigration processes in Portugal.
However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of this approach can vary, and the increasing number of lawsuits has led to further delays in the court system.
How long it takes a legal action against AIMA
Taking legal action against AIMA (Portugal’s immigration agency) to expedite your residency process typically unfolds as follows:
Preparation and Filing: After gathering the necessary documents and granting power of attorney to your lawyer, the lawsuit is filed. This initial phase usually takes about 2 weeks.
Court Proceedings: Once filed, the court reviews the case and may order AIMA to act within a specified timeframe, often between 10 to 30 working days. However, due to an increasing number of such cases, obtaining a ruling can now take approximately 8 to 10 weeks.
AIMA’s Compliance: After the court’s directive, AIMA is expected to schedule your appointment or process your application within the stipulated period, though actual compliance times can vary.
In total, from initiating the lawsuit to potentially securing an appointment or decision, the process can span 2 to 3 months or more. It’s important to note that while legal action has proven effective for many, outcomes can vary based on individual circumstances and the evolving backlog at AIMA.
How much it cost a Legal Action against AIMA
Initiating legal action against AIMA (Portugal’s immigration agency) to expedite residency processes can vary in cost, primarily depending on the lawyer’s fees and the complexity of your case.
While court fees for such actions are typically minimal or nonexistent, attorney fees can range significantly. Some individuals have reported paying as low as €750, while others have encountered fees up to €3,000 or more.
Is it worth taking legal action against AIMA?
Initiating legal action against AIMA (Portugal’s immigration agency) can be an effective strategy to expedite your residency application, particularly if you’ve experienced significant delays.
Many applicants have pursued this route, with reports indicating a high success rate. For instance, some sources note a 90% success rate in compelling AIMA to accelerate application processing.
However, it’s important to consider that while legal action may prompt faster responses, the overall process can still be prolonged due to AIMA’s extensive backlog. Some cases have experienced delays of 3 to 6 months, even with court involvement.
Additionally, pursuing legal action involves costs, including attorney fees, which can vary widely. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional experienced in Portuguese immigration law to assess your specific situation and determine if this approach aligns with your needs and resources.
Why Can We Help
Portugal Residency Advisors® offers expert support throughout your immigration journey. From preparing and submitting your documents to helping schedule appointments and tracking progress with AIMA, we make the process smoother and more efficient. Our experience helps you avoid delays and move forward with confidence.
We can assist with legal action to compel AIMA to act on your case—protecting your rights and helping unlock your application.
Get in touch with us today and take the next step toward your residency in Portugal!
