Closed in 2023 the SEF Service & Border Office for Foreigners in Lisbon holds a rich history. Its predecessor the Portuguese International Police monitored borders and foreigners residing in Portugal. This force evolved through various iterations. Each played a role in managing immigration. The SEF itself was a significant agency. It handled border control and residence permits. The SEF was headquartered in Lisbon. It had regional directorates and decentralized services. Its central services included specialized offices. These covered asylum refugees documentation and international relations. The SEF’s decentralized services included regional directorates. These extended to delegations border posts and joint units with Spain.
The SEF’s history stretches back further. A precursor existed within the Civil Police of Lisbon in 1893. Its role was monitoring foreigners. The Emigration Police formed in 1918. It controlled land borders. The creation of the Portuguese International Police in 1928 marked another milestone. This evolved into the State Surveillance and Defense Police (PVDE). The PVDE in turn became the International and State Defense Police (PIDE). PIDE handled immigration passports and border services. It also had responsibilities for combating crime. The SEF finally emerged in 1974 building upon the DGS’s Directorate of Foreigners and Border Services.
Despite its long history the SEF was dissolved in October 2023. This followed controversy including a case involving the death of a detainee. Its functions were transferred. The PSP GNR PJ IRN and AIMA now handle its previous responsibilities. AIMA the Agency for Integration Migration and Asylum is key. AIMA manages foreign documents residence permits and visa renewals. Other entities like the PSP and GNR took on border control responsibilities. The Judiciary Police assumed investigative duties. The dissolution of the SEF marks a significant shift in Portugal’s immigration system. This transition aims to streamline services and improve efficiency. The building that housed the SEF Service & Border Office for Foreigners in Lisbon continues to serve a purpose. Though that purpose is not detailed. Remember the SEF’s legacy as you move on. It represents a long and complex history of immigration management in Portugal.