Portugal immigration lawyer – English speaking lawyers in Portugal (Cascais) – Portugal attorney

Judicial Appeal of AIMA Decisions: Protecting Your Rights

We help you appeal rejections of residence permits, citizenship, and other AIMA decisions through the court in Portugal — properly, on time, and with a clear understanding of the process.

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Why It May Be Necessary to Appeal a Decision by AIMA

In Portugal, immigration matters fall under the jurisdiction of AIMA — the national agency responsible for issuing residence permits, renewals, document processing, citizenship applications, and other aspects of legal stay for foreigners in the country.

Unfortunately, AIMA decisions are often controversial or illogical. Applicants frequently receive formal rejections without clear explanation. In such cases, administrative appeal is often ineffective or unavailable. All of this can seriously affect your legal status, employment opportunities, access to benefits, or the future of your family.

Many foreigners don’t know that AIMA is not the final authority. If you disagree with a rejection, you can go to administrative court. A properly filed claim, based on Portuguese law, gives you a real chance to defend your rights.

Situations That Require Judicial Appeal

Judicial appeals may be necessary in various situations. Here are just a few of the most common:

  • Rejection of a residence permit (Visto or Visto de residência): even if your documents are in order, AIMA may reject the application without a valid reason.
  • Rejection of a renewal request: AIMA may revoke your legal status due to a missed deadline or incorrect submission, which can be appealed in court.
  • Denial of citizenship application: if the application is refused, a legal appeal can help challenge the decision.
  • Unlawful delay or failure to respond: in some cases, AIMA does not issue a decision for many months, which is a violation of your rights and can also be legally challenged.
  • Annulment of a previously issued residence permit: sometimes this happens due to technical issues (for example, an address wasn’t updated in time) or a clerical error.
  • Family reunification denial: if AIMA refuses documents from close relatives, including children, even when the reasons seem minor or easily resolved.
  • Delays in decision-making: in some cases, the absence of a timely decision may be treated as a rejection — and this too can be appealed.

Such situations are not rare, and you are not obligated to accept them. The law provides protection mechanisms, and court — is the institution where everyone has the right to be heard and receive an objective review of their case.

Who Can Benefit From an Appeal

The appeal process is relevant for any foreign national whose rights have been restricted by an AIMA decision. This applies especially in cases when:

  • You received an official refusal and don’t know how to respond;
  • You believe AIMA’s decision is unfair and want to fight it;
  • You submitted documents but received no response;
  • You can’t submit new documents because your legal status has changed;
  • You are worried about your legal status and don’t want to lose your rights.

It’s important to understand that an appeal is not confrontation with the system. It’s a legal way to seek justice, ensure fairness, or — if necessary — change your situation. Portuguese administrative courts are well-developed, and many cases result in a favorable outcome.

What Is Included in the Legal Appeal Support Service

We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the legal system of another country. That’s why we take on the entire process — from initial review to full representation. The legal appeal support service includes:

  • Legal analysis of the refusal: we review the AIMA decision, determine whether it can be appealed, and explain how best to proceed.
  • Drafting the legal claim and collecting documents: we prepare all necessary paperwork based on Portuguese law and court practices.
  • Representation of the Client in Court:
    We represent the client at all stages: from filing the claim to the final decision. Depending on the case, this may include written representation or attendance at court hearings.
  • Communication with the Court and Other Parties:
    We handle all notices, summonses, and correspondence — on your behalf. You’ll stay informed and avoid legal bureaucracy.
  • Monitoring Deadlines and Process Stages:
    Court cases always involve deadlines and procedures. We ensure everything proceeds on schedule and that no important step is missed.

Cost of Judicial Appeal of AIMA Decisions. What It Depends On

The cost of appealing AIMA decisions is calculated individually. It depends on:

  • Complexity of the case and volume of legal argumentation;
  • Number of required documents and translations;
  • Level of the court (first instance, appeals, cassation);
  • Involvement of experts or witnesses (if required by law);
  • Scope of support, which affects the total workload.

Some matters can be resolved quickly and without lengthy proceedings, while others require full legal protection and extended support. That’s why we always analyze your case first, explain what affects the cost, and only then suggest a transparent pricing model.

Why Clients Choose MoveToCascais

Deep Knowledge of Immigration Law
We specialize in immigration cases in Portugal. We know how administrative authorities work and how to use legal tools effectively in the client’s best interest.

Proven Success in Cases Against AIMA
We have a strong track record in administrative courts, including residence permit, citizenship, and document renewal cases — even those with complex rejections. We know how to build a strong case in court.

Tailored Approach to Every Case
No cookie-cutter solutions. We analyze your specific situation and choose the strategy that works. You receive personalized support, clear explanations, and an honest assessment.

Full Transparency and Support at Every Stage
You’ll always know what’s happening — from claim submission to final decision. We keep you informed, explain legal steps in plain language, and stay in contact throughout the process.

Support in Russian, Ukrainian, Portuguese, and English
We work with immigrants from different countries and speak your language. This ensures comfort, understanding — and more effective results.

Need expert assistance?

Some services can be challenging to handle on your own. Trust our team of professionals to guide you through every step.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. When can I appeal an AIMA decision in court?

You can appeal after receiving an official rejection or if AIMA has failed to respond to your request. If your application was denied or your legal status was restricted — you have the right to challenge the decision. The main thing is not to lose time, as the law sets strict deadlines.

2. What is the deadline to file a claim?

The standard deadline is usually three months from the date of receiving the decision or from the moment your rights were violated. If you received a refusal from AIMA or another body, you should not delay. The sooner a qualified legal expert reviews the situation, the higher the chances of a successful outcome.

3. Do I Need to Appear in Court in Person?

No, personal presence at court hearings is usually not required. Your interests can be represented by an authorized person — a lawyer acting on your behalf. We take care of all representation, notify you at every stage, and ensure your participation only when it is truly necessary.

4. Can I Appeal a Citizenship Denial?

Yes. A denial of Portuguese citizenship can be appealed through an administrative court. This is especially relevant if you believe you met all the requirements and the reasoning for refusal is unconvincing. We can help prepare a strong legal case and defend your interests in court.

5. What Happens if the Court Declares AIMA’s Actions Unlawful?

If the court rules in your favor, AIMA is obligated to comply. This may result in cancellation of the denial, restoration of your residence permit, issuance of citizenship, or other forms of compensation for violated rights. Court rulings are binding without exception.

6. Can I Go to Court if AIMA Does Not Respond to My Request?

Yes, silence from AIMA can be challenged. If a significant amount of time has passed since your submission and no official response has been received, this may be treated as an unlawful omission. We help prepare the appropriate claim and prove that AIMA failed to meet its legal obligation to respond.

How we can help

Legal Evaluation of Your Case

We review your case, analyze the refusal, and assess your chances of appeal. Everything is explained in simple terms.

Claim Preparation

We draft the necessary documents, justify the legal position, and file the claim with the appropriate court within the required time.

Court Representation

We represent you in court in person or remotely — you don’t have to attend hearings if you don’t want to.

Translation and Document Preparation

We handle translations, legalization, and correct formatting of all documents needed for court.

Support Until Final Judgment

We stay with you throughout the entire process — from filing the claim to receiving the final court decision and its enforcement.

Post-Court Support

We help implement the court decision and resubmit documents to AIMA.

Other services

Support during an AIMA appointment

If you have an in-person visit to the immigration service (AIMA) — for a visa, residence permit, or renewal — we will provide a lawyer to accompany you, ensuring that your interests are protected and taken into account.

Representation of your interests in court

We handle court cases of various categories: from immigration and civil to administrative. We protect our clients at every stage, carefully prepare documents, and represent your position in court.

Court request for an AIMA slot

If it is impossible to book an AIMA appointment through standard means, we submit an official court request to set a date. This is a legal way to speed up the process.

Appealing AIMA decisions

Received a refusal from the immigration service? We will prepare and file a legal complaint to challenge an unfair decision and defend your rights.