Government Extends Placement of Former SEF Inspectors at Airports Until April 2026
The Portuguese Government announced this Friday its decision to prolong the assignment of 129 inspectors from the former Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) at national airports until April 2026. The announcement was made by the Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, following a Council of Ministers meeting where a decree-law formalizing the extension was approved. This measure is intended to ensure stability and efficiency in the control of Portugal's air borders, particularly in Lisbon and Faro.
This strategic decision addresses the transitional phase following the dissolution of SEF on October 29, 2023. Upon its extinction, SEF's inspectors were officially transferred to the Judiciary Police (PJ). However, to maintain operational capacity at borders, a contingent of 324 inspectors was placed on a "temporary functional assignment" with the Public Security Police (PSP), which assumed responsibility for air border control. The initial plan mandated a gradual integration of these officers into the PJ by October 29, 2025.
Minister Leitão Amaro cited the current "situation at airport border controls" as the primary justification for the extension. This refers to the persistent challenges of managing high passenger volumes and complex immigration procedures, especially at Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon and Faro Airport in the Algarve. These airports are the main entry points for international tourists, business travelers, and a growing expatriate community, making their smooth operation a national priority. The government's action reflects a pragmatic approach to ensuring that border security and efficiency are not compromised during the ongoing reorganization of immigration services.
The measure is particularly relevant for the thousands of foreign nationals who travel to and from Portugal. A seamless airport experience is crucial for the country's reputation as a top destination for tourism and investment. For those looking to invest or reside in the country, the efficiency of border control is a practical aspect of the relocation process. Navigating the administrative side of moving can be complex, and finding support from English-speaking real estate lawyers can be invaluable for handling property acquisition and residency matters.
The continued presence of these experienced inspectors is expected to provide crucial expertise and continuity. Their deep knowledge of immigration law and border procedures, honed over years of service with SEF, is considered an indispensable asset. This expertise is vital for processing the diverse range of travelers, from EU citizens to third-country nationals requiring visas or residency permits. The government aims to leverage this experience to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain high security standards.
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This policy directly impacts the expatriate and investor communities, who rely on predictable and efficient entry procedures. The stability provided by this measure offers reassurance to those who frequently travel for business or personal reasons. As Portugal continues to attract foreign residents, particularly to its vibrant urban centers and coastal regions, the government's focus on maintaining operational integrity at its borders is a welcome development. Further insights into such regulatory matters can be found in our regulatory and legal frameworks blog.
The government's plan involves a phased approach, with the ultimate goal of fully integrating the former SEF inspectors into the Judiciary Police's structure. However, this extension acknowledges that a premature withdrawal could risk operational stability. The April 2026 timeline provides an extended window to complete the transition, allowing for further training and resource allocation within the PSP and the new Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), which has taken over SEF's administrative functions.
The focus on Lisbon and Faro highlights the strategic importance of these two locations. Lisbon, as the capital and a major business hub, handles the largest volume of international traffic. Faro is the gateway to the Algarve, a region heavily dependent on tourism and with a large population of foreign residents. Ensuring robust border controls in these areas is essential for both the national economy and regional development. For more news affecting residents and property owners, visit our news portal.
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