7 Urgent Demands Immigrants Make for Faster Residence Permit Processes

Immigrants Demand Faster Residence Permit Processes

Immigrant associations in Portugal are coming together to demand changes to the current laws on residence permits. On October 25th, these groups plan to gather in front of the Assembly of the Republic, calling for the reinstatement of legal provisions that allowed immigrants to obtain residence permits more quickly. The focus of their protest is to push for faster residence permit processes, which they believe are vital for both immigrants and the country.

Why Immigrants are Pushing for Faster Residence Permit Processes

The recent changes to the law governing foreigners, which took effect on June 4th, removed two important articles (88 and 89) that previously allowed immigrants to begin the process of obtaining a residence permit through what is known as the “expression of interest.” These articles made it easier for immigrants to become legally recognized in Portugal. Without these provisions, many immigrants are struggling to navigate the complex legal system, delaying their ability to secure work and contribute to the economy.

Flora Silva, a representative of the Olho Vivo Association, which advocates for human rights, heritage, and environmental protection, stressed the importance of these articles. “The reinstatement of these two articles is essential for the economy, companies, and immigrants. The country needs them, and at this moment, they have no way of regularizing their situation,” she explained.

Planned Actions for Faster Residence Permit Processes

The push for faster residence permit processes is gaining momentum. In addition to the street protest scheduled for October 25th, immigrant associations are also planning to launch a petition. This petition aims to bring the issue to the attention of the Assembly of the Republic, ensuring that the voices of immigrants are heard at the highest levels of government. According to Flora Silva, the petition will be launched soon, adding another layer to the ongoing efforts to reform the system.

The movement currently represents around 57 immigrant associations and collectives across Portugal. These groups have already scheduled several important meetings with political parties, including the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and the Socialist Party, to discuss their concerns about the slow residence permit processes. They are also hoping to meet with other political parties and the Prime Minister to further press their demands.

Solidarity with AIMA Workers in the Fight for Faster Residence Permit Processes

The immigrant associations are not just focusing on legal changes. They are also showing solidarity with the workers at the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA), who have been striking and working overtime due to the overwhelming demand for their services. These workers are on the front lines of helping immigrants navigate the complex bureaucratic system, and their efforts are crucial for improving residence permit processes. A motion of solidarity with AIMA workers was approved at a recent meeting held at the José Saramago Foundation in Lisbon.

This solidarity shows the interconnected nature of the issues facing immigrants and those who work to support them. By standing together, both immigrants and AIMA workers hope to bring about faster residence permit processes that work better for everyone.

Ongoing Conversations and Political Engagement for Faster Residence Permit Processes

The movement for faster residence permit processes has been gaining attention at the highest levels of government. In mid-July, immigrant associations met with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. During this meeting, the President promised to advocate for the reinstatement of the “expression of interest” process, which would make it easier for immigrants to start their journey toward legal residence in the country.

The promise from the President gives hope to many immigrants, but the fight is far from over. The associations are continuing to engage with politicians to ensure that the necessary legal changes are made. Upcoming meetings with members of different political parties are seen as key opportunities to push for reforms that will speed up the residence permit process for immigrants.

The Impact of Slow Residence Permit Processes on Immigrants and the Economy

The removal of the legal provisions that once allowed for faster residence permit processes has had significant consequences for both immigrants and the Portuguese economy. Many immigrants are unable to work legally, making it difficult for them to support themselves and contribute to society. This situation also affects companies that rely on immigrant labor, as they struggle to fill positions that require legal residency.

The reinstatement of the “expression of interest” process would benefit both immigrants and employers. It would allow immigrants to regularize their status more quickly, enabling them to work and fully participate in Portuguese society. At the same time, it would help companies access the workforce they need to grow and thrive.

Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Faster Residence Permit Processes

Immigrant associations in Portugal are making a strong case for the reinstatement of laws that allowed for faster residence permit processes. These processes are essential for immigrants seeking to build a new life in Portugal, as well as for the country’s economic health. The actions planned by these associations, including street protests and petitions, show their determination to bring about change.

As they continue to engage with political leaders, immigrant associations are hopeful that their demands for faster residence permit processes will be heard and acted upon. For now, the movement remains united in its goal of improving the legal pathways for immigrants in Portugal, ensuring that the system works more efficiently and fairly for everyone involved.