What's Changing
Portugal's Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) has announced a comprehensive modernization of its appointment booking system, set to launch on January 15, 2025. This represents the most significant change to Portugal's immigration services infrastructure in over a decade.
The current system, which has struggled with long wait times and technical issues, will be completely replaced by a new cloud-based platform developed in partnership with the Portuguese Digital Transformation Agency.
Key Changes
Digital-First Approach
The new system will be entirely digital, with no walk-in appointments accepted after January 15, 2025. All appointment scheduling will be done through the updated AIMA website and mobile app.
Priority Windows for Existing Applicants
AIMA recognizes that many applicants have been waiting months for appointments under the current system. To address this:
- December 1-15, 2024: Exclusive booking window for applicants with pending cases
- December 16-31, 2024: General booking opens with priority given to existing applicants
- January 15, 2025: New system fully operational
Cancellation of Old Appointments
Critical: All appointments scheduled through the old system will be automatically cancelled on January 15, 2025. You must rebook through the new system even if you have a confirmed appointment.
Improved Wait Times
AIMA projects that the new system will reduce average wait times from the current 4 months down to 6 weeks for most services. High-demand services like D7 and Digital Nomad visa biometric appointments should see wait times drop to 3-4 weeks.
What You Need to Do
For Applicants with Pending Cases
- Before December 1: Log into your AIMA online account and verify your application status
- December 1: Priority registration opens at 9:00 AM WET (Western European Time)
- December 1-15: Book your appointment through the priority window
- Gather Required Documents: Ensure all documentation is ready for your appointment
For New Applicants
- Wait until December 16: New applications can begin booking appointments
- Create AIMA Account: Register on the new platform when it opens
- Prepare Documentation: Have all required documents digitized and ready to upload
Required Information for Booking
- Valid passport number
- Current Portuguese address (temporary housing is acceptable)
- NIF (Portuguese tax number)
- Email address and mobile phone number
- Application type (D7, D8, Golden Visa, etc.)
- Supporting documents (scanned PDFs)
Regional Service Centers
AIMA is also opening 3 new regional service centers to handle increased capacity:
- Lisbon: Expanding to 2 locations (current + new Parque das Nações office)
- Porto: New dedicated expat services center in Boavista
- Faro: First AIMA office in the Algarve region
Technical Support
AIMA will provide technical support in Portuguese, English, and Spanish:
- Phone: +351 808 202 653 (weekdays 9:00-18:00 WET)
- Email: appointments@imigrante.pt
- Live Chat: Available on AIMA website (English support 9:00-17:00 WET)
Why This Matters
The appointment backlog has been a major frustration for expats moving to Portugal. Many applicants have faced 4-6 month waits just to submit biometrics or collect residence cards. This system overhaul, if successful, could significantly improve the Portugal visa experience.
However, the transition period requires immediate attention from anyone with pending applications. Missing the priority booking window could mean starting over in the general queue.
Official Government Response
Minister of Internal Administration José Luís Carneiro stated: "This modernization reflects Portugal's commitment to welcoming skilled migrants and remote workers efficiently. The new system will provide the service quality that Portugal's immigrant community deserves."
Next Steps
- Mark your calendar: December 1 priority registration opens
- Verify your AIMA account credentials: Test login before December 1
- Prepare documents: Have everything ready to upload
- Monitor official channels: Check AIMA website for any updates or changes
Related Resources
For detailed guidance on the specific visa types and required documentation:
Last Updated: September 30, 2024
Next Review: December 1, 2024 (when priority window opens)
This article is based on official AIMA announcements and government communications. All dates and procedures are subject to change by Portuguese authorities.