Lisbon’s First Immigrant Service Centre Opens Today
Lisbon has just opened its first immigrant service centre today, a significant step toward improving services for the city’s immigrant population. This new facility is part of the Mission Structure of the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) and aims to address the needs of immigrants more efficiently. Located in the Hindu Centre in Telheiras, the centre will operate from 08:00 to 22:00 and is staffed by a hundred employees from AIMA, along with trained collaborators from various civil society organizations.
Addressing 400,000 Pending Cases
One of the primary goals of the immigrant service centre Lisbon is to address the backlog of over 400,000 pending cases that need processing. This large number of pending cases reflects the challenges immigrants have faced in accessing services and legalizing their status. The centre has been designed as part of a robust and well-coordinated operation to tackle these issues quickly and efficiently.
A Commitment Fulfilled
The opening of this immigrant service centre in Lisbon fulfills a promise made by Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, back in August. He had expressed the intention to have these centres up and running by September. True to that commitment, this centre is now operational, providing much-needed services to Lisbon’s immigrant population.
Essential Services for Immigrants
The immigrant service centre Lisbon offers a wide range of services tailored to the needs of the immigrant community. From legal support to social services, the centre is designed to be a one-stop shop for immigrants seeking help with their integration process.
Language Support for Better Communication
One of the critical services provided by the immigrant service centre Lisbon is language support. Understanding and communicating in the local language is often a significant barrier for immigrants, and this service aims to help bridge that gap. The centre offers language assistance in various languages to ensure that every immigrant can access the help they need.
Employment and Social Support
The centre also provides support through the Institute of Employment and Professional Training (IEFP) and Social Security. These services are vital for immigrants seeking employment and social assistance as they integrate into Portuguese society. By offering these services in one location, the immigrant service centre Lisbon simplifies the process for individuals and families navigating their new lives in Portugal.
Support from Migrant Associations
In addition to government services, the centre collaborates with migrant associations that are deeply connected to the immigrant community. These associations play a crucial role in helping immigrants navigate their rights and opportunities. Their involvement ensures that the services provided are not only relevant but also culturally sensitive.
Expansion Across Portugal
The Lisbon centre is just the beginning. AIMA President Pedro Gaspar has announced that 29 more immigrant service centres will be opened across the country as part of a larger plan. This expansion is the first phase of creating a comprehensive network of services for immigrants throughout Portugal. The goal is to ensure that all immigrants have access to the support they need, no matter where they are located.
Creating a Capillary Network of Services
Pedro Gaspar explained that the new centres are part of a broad strategy to develop a “capillary network” of services. This network will allow for the distribution of services throughout the country, making it easier for immigrants to access the help they need. The ultimate aim is to ensure that no one is left behind, and that all immigrants have the resources necessary to thrive in Portugal.
Daily Appointments to Streamline Processes
The immigrant service centre Lisbon and other centres across the country are also implementing a system of daily appointments. This is part of a broader effort to legalize immigrants and process their applications more quickly. The goal is to achieve 1,000 appointments per day, which will significantly speed up the processing time for pending cases. This new system reflects a strong commitment to addressing the needs of the immigrant community in a timely and efficient manner.
Strengthening Resources for the Future
In addition to opening new centres, AIMA is also working on reinforcing its resources to handle the increasing demand for services. The Mission Structure includes a one-year reinforcement of 300 members, which will remain in place until June 2025. This reinforcement is essential for ensuring that the centres have the staff and expertise needed to manage the large number of cases they are handling.
Expert Teams to Handle Complex Cases
A key part of this reinforcement effort includes the formation of expert teams. These teams consist of experienced AIMA workers and former inspectors from SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service). Their expertise will be crucial in handling the more complex administrative and documentary processes involved in legalizing immigrants. This approach ensures that each case is handled with care and professionalism.
Collecting Biometric Data
Another important aspect of the services provided by the immigrant service centre Lisbon is the collection of biometric data. This is a crucial step in the process of legalizing immigrants, and it requires a high level of accuracy and efficiency. With a team of 200 dedicated staff members handling biometric data collection, the centres are well-equipped to manage this important task.
Continuing to Improve Services
The immigrant service centre Lisbon is a significant step forward in improving services for immigrants in Portugal, but the work doesn’t stop here. AIMA is committed to continuously enhancing its services to meet the evolving needs of the immigrant community. As more centres open across the country, the focus will remain on providing efficient, accessible, and comprehensive support to all immigrants.
Future Growth and Development
To ensure that the centres can continue to meet the growing demand for services, AIMA is also working on increasing its human resources. Pedro Gaspar has stated that there are several competitive procedures underway to hire additional staff. Additionally, mobility mechanisms will be strengthened and implemented to make the most of existing resources. These efforts will ensure that the centres are well-prepared to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
Conclusion
The opening of the first immigrant service centre in Lisbon marks an important milestone in Portugal’s efforts to support its immigrant population. With a focus on resolving over 400,000 pending cases and providing a wide range of essential services, the centre is poised to make a significant impact. As more centres open across the country, Portugal is taking a proactive approach to helping immigrants integrate and thrive. The immigrant service centre Lisbon represents a new era of support, one that is committed to creating a brighter future for all immigrants in Portugal.
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