Introduction: A New Era for Border Control in Portugal

In July 2025, the Portuguese government enacted Law No. 55‑C/2025, officially establishing the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders (UNEF) within the Public Security Police (PSP). This reform is part of a broader migration strategy to tighten border security and improve enforcement mechanisms at airport border posts.

UNEF inherits responsibilities once managed by the former SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service), particularly those tied to immigration enforcement. These include controlling border entry points, managing foreign nationals’ stay, overseeing deportations, and ensuring international cooperation on migration and security.

However, UNEF faces a daunting challenge from the outset. As reported by SIC Notícias on August 29, 2025, the unit is already responsible for executing more than 100,000 pending expulsion orders. These cases involve migrants who are legally required to leave Portuguese territory but remain due to procedural delays or administrative backlog.

With political scrutiny and public pressure rising, UNEF’s role is both critical and complex. Below, we explore all the competencies granted to UNEF under the new legislation—structured from A to Y—and assess its potential impact on Portugal’s migration and security framework.
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What is UNEF?

The Unidade Nacional de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (UNEF) is a newly created body within the PSP, tasked with controlling airport borders, managing the legal stay and removal of foreigners, and ensuring coordinated border security operations both nationally and internationally.

Legal Framework: Law No. 55‑C/2025

Law No. 55‑C/2025 redefines the structure of the PSP and outlines UNEF’s responsibilities. It also updates related legislation, including:

• Law No. 53/2007 – PSP Organic Law
• Decree-Law No. 41/2023 – Creation of AIMA, IP
• Decree-Law No. 22/2021 – Monitoring of Forced Returns
• Decree-Law No. 139/94 – Consular Liaison Framework

UNEF Competencies from A to Y

1. a) Monitor and control airport borders and passenger flow.
2. b) Supervise the stay of foreign nationals within PSP jurisdiction.
3. c) Process deportation, expulsion, and voluntary return cases; standardize operational procedures.
4. d) Handle administrative offenses regarding foreigner entry and residence.
5. e) Record and update police/criminal data on expulsion and return operations.
6. f) Grant entry visas at airport border posts in accordance with the law.
7. g) Execute deportation and expulsion orders by air.
8. h) Operate logistical processes for removals and returns via air transport.
9. i) Conduct joint missions with national and international police forces.
10. j) Manage temporary holding centers and similar facilities.
11. k) Represent Portugal in international and EU institutions related to borders and foreigner affairs.
12. l) Collaborate with UCFE to maintain consistent standards and manage equipment at border posts.
13. m) Help define national strategies aligned with the EU’s Integrated Border Management model.
14. n) Gather intelligence related to crimes involving immigration violations.
15. o) Coordinate with GNR and COMAR on data sharing and risk assessment of cross-border movement.
16. p) Train PSP officers in migration law, document analysis, and border enforcement.
17. q) Ensure safety, public order, and rapid tactical response at airport facilities.
18. r) Advise on airport and airfield security upon request.
19. s) Conduct or assist in security audits and safety studies for air transport infrastructure.
20. t) Coordinate border liaison officers during air embarkation missions.
21. u) Facilitate international cooperation on border and airport security operations.
22. v) Promote best practices and continuous improvement in border control standards.
23. w) Provide legal data to IGAI regarding forced return monitoring procedures.
24. x) Liaise with consular authorities and monitor cooperation with foreign immigration officers.
25. y) Perform any additional duties legally assigned to UNEF.

Important Clarification

Article 3(2) of the law ensures that UNEF’s responsibilities do not interfere with those of the National Republican Guard (GNR). Each body maintains distinct areas of operation.

Entry into Force

The law takes effect 30 days after publication, making it operational as of approximately August 21, 2025.

Conclusion

The creation of UNEF under Law No. 55‑C/2025 signals a decisive move by the Portuguese state to modernize and consolidate border enforcement.
With over 100,000 deportation cases pending, UNEF’s immediate mission is critical—not just from a security standpoint, but also to restore
confidence in the legal and operational capacity of the nation’s migration system. Its success will depend on strategic coordination,
political support, and logistical efficiency in a challenging geopolitical climate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is UNEF?

It is the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders within PSP, responsible for airport border control and managing foreigner-related operations.

How many deportation cases is UNEF handling?

According to SIC Notícias, UNEF is responsible for executing over 100,000 pending expulsion orders.

Does UNEF replace GNR?

No. GNR retains its own border responsibilities; UNEF’s tasks are complementary and specific to the PSP jurisdiction.

When did UNEF become operational?

UNEF officially began operations around August 21, 2025, 30 days after the publication of Law No. 55‑C/2025.