Portugal: Immigration officers launch three-day strike March 27

Event

The Borders and Immigrations Service (SEF) union launched a three-day strike starting on Tuesday, March 27. According to media reports, the strike started at 12:00 (local time) with workers holding a silent demonstration outside of the SEF office in Lisbon. Half of the 1200 employees in the documentary service, which is responsible for issuing passports, residence permits, and visas, are participating in the action. As of Tuesday, it is unclear if the strike will impact immigration services at international airports.

Context

This is the second SEF strike within the past six months. Administrative SEF employees claim that they are not provided with the same benefits and opportunities as their police officer colleagues.

Advice

Individuals traveling to Portugal are advised to monitor the situation and anticipate longer wait times at immigration.