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🚔 Law 55-C/2025: UNEF is the New Border Police within the PSP
Portugal formally establishes UNEF (National Unit of Foreigners and Borders) within the PSP, completing the post-SEF reform with specialized immigration enforcement at airports and borders.
Portugal has today formally established the new immigration police unit: the National Unit of Foreigners and Borders (UNEF), integrated within the Public Security Police (PSP). This law defines the structure and competencies of UNEF and comes into force in 30 days (late August 2025).
The creation of UNEF is the final pillar of the post-SEF reform. The border control and immigration enforcement functions, which were removed from SEF, are now formally assigned to this specialized unit.
- What UNEF will do:
- Airport Control: UNEF officers will be responsible for surveillance and control of air borders (international airports) and immigration checks.
- Enforcement: It will manage the tracking of foreigners, including carrying out inspections for illegal stay, and will oversee deportation and expulsion processes.
- Coordination: UNEF will coordinate with the Coast Guard (GNR) and, crucially, with AIMA, ensuring a clear separation of functions (AIMA for administration, UNEF for police/enforcement).
From the end of August, travelers and residents will see uniformed UNEF officers from the PSP at airports. This reorganization aims for greater professionalization of border operations and a clearer distinction between service (AIMA) and enforcement (UNEF).