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Immigrants in Portugal Allegedly Forced to Pay Brokers for Residence Permit Appointment Access

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A disturbing trend has emerged in Portugal, where immigrants have no other choice but to pay illegal brokers to schedule residence permit appointments for them at the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA).

Scheduling an appointment with AIMA is crucial for obtaining a Portuguese residence permit or renewing the document.

However, due to brokers that are overloading AIMA’a phone lines, immigrants in Portugal have no chance to secure appointments, pushing them to turn to illegal means and pay individuals part of these networks, SchengenVisaInfo reports.

As revealed, brokers use special systems to flood AIMA’s phone lines. Since the system is already overloaded, immigrants cannot get in line, and thus, they decide to resort to social media, where they can find individuals and organised groups offering appointment slots in exchange for a high amount of money.

According to Novo, who investigated the case, brokers are charging €500 to €1,000 for an appointment, making it harder for immigrants to legalise their stay in Portugal.

Complaints Have Been Filed With Judiciary Police

This situation has prompted lawyers to file complaints with the Judiciary Police. Inês Azevedo is one of the lawyers who has voiced concerns about the exploitation of immigrants by these brokers.

Azevedo said that immigrants make up a significant proportion of the population in Portugal and contribute to the country’s economy and social welfare system.

Yet, she highlighted that they are being subject to exploitation and called on the Portuguese authorities to take measures as promptly as possible to put an end to such practices.

Through its investigation, Novo found out that people who are involved in illegally selling appointments are immigrants residing in Portugal as well as individuals based in other countries such as Brazil and some other African nations.

The same revealed that appointments for family reunification, especially for children between the ages of five and 15, are the most sought-after.

New Portuguese Law Facilitates Family Reunification Requests

The Portuguese government approved a new law earlier in January of this year, facilitating family reunification requests.

The facilitations came as part of the country’s efforts to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the immigration process.

Back in January, when AIMA became the successor of SEF, the Agency said that it would launch a digital services portal that would allow for smoother residence permit applications for family reunification. However, to this day, appointments still need to be made by phone.

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Monte OZ
Monte OZ is a highly accomplished and respected international freelance journalist, travel and active adventure reporter, and leading entertainment & lifestyle blogger based in Africa. With a passion for storytelling, a sense of adventure, and an eye for all things captivating, Monte has become a prominent figure in the world of travel, entertainment, and lifestyle journalism. Born and raised in Africa, Monte developed a deep appreciation for the continent's diverse cultures, rich heritage, and vibrant entertainment scene. His upbringing fueled his desire to share Africa's untold stories and showcase its dynamic lifestyle to a global audience. Monte's extensive experience and expertise have made him a sought-after authority on all things related to travel, adventure, entertainment, and lifestyle in Africa. As an international freelance journalist, Monte has made significant contributions to various prestigious publications worldwide. His captivating articles, insightful interviews, and engaging features have graced the pages of leading entertainment magazines, lifestyle publications, and reputable news outlets. Monte's unique ability to capture the essence of Africa's entertainment and lifestyle scene has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition. With a love for exploration and a thirst for adrenaline, Monte also thrives as an active adventure reporter. He has embarked on daring expeditions, immersing himself in Africa's wild landscapes, and documenting his adrenaline-pumping experiences. Whether it's conquering treacherous peaks, exploring remote jungles, or engaging in heart-pounding activities, Monte's adventurous spirit and daring escapades inspire readers to embrace their own sense of adventure. In addition to his work in journalism and adventure reporting, Monte is a leading entertainment & lifestyle blogger in Africa. Through his influential blog, he offers readers an insider's view of the continent's vibrant entertainment scene, trendy hotspots, fashion trends, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. Monte's unique blend of storytelling, personal insights, and expert recommendations has made his blog a go-to resource for entertainment and lifestyle enthusiasts seeking the pulse of Africa's dynamic culture. Beyond his professional pursuits, Monte is a passionate advocate for promoting Africa's talent, creativity, and cultural diversity. He actively supports and champions emerging artists, musicians, designers, and entrepreneurs, helping to showcase their work to a broader audience. Monte's dedication to promoting Africa's vibrant entertainment and lifestyle industry has positioned him as a respected influencer and tastemaker within the African and global entertainment communities. With a commitment to excellence, a passion for exploration, and a talent for captivating storytelling, Monte Oz continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As an international freelance journalist, travel and active adventure reporter, and leading entertainment & lifestyle blogger, his work has left an indelible mark on the world of journalism, travel, and entertainment, solidifying his position as a trusted authority and go-to resource for all things related to African travel, adventure, and lifestyle.