Portugal’s border security overhaul proves critics wrong after SEF dissolution

A year after scrapping SEF, Portugal’s border controls are stronger than ever. Why did critics like Ventura get it so wrong?

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2025 November 30 . 3:38 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see two police officers, one of them is holding some papers, and talking in... — In this image we can see two police officers, one of them is holding some papers, and talking in the mic, in front of him there is a podium, also we can see a board with some symbols, and text written on it, there is a banner, cloth, a stand, we can see the flag, and a table.

Portugal’s border security overhaul proves critics wrong after SEF dissolution

Portugal’s border security system has undergone major changes in the past year. In October 2023, the former Social Security Office (SEF) was dissolved, shifting its duties to the Public Security Police (PSP). Despite claims by politician André Ventura that social security benefits no longer exist, the system remains active under a new structure.

The dissolution of SEF in October 2023 marked the start of a transition period. Its responsibilities were handed over to the PSP, which took time to reorganise operations. By August 2024, the PSP officially launched its National Unit for Foreigners and Borders, a dedicated division for managing border security.

Border controls in Portugal continue under the PSP’s management. The National Unit for Foreigners and Borders ensures security remains in place, despite the restructuring. Ventura’s assertion that no border police exist has been proven incorrect by the ongoing operations.