Immigration figures in Portugal have soared to a staggering 1.6million, with a government minister saying there had been a loss of “control”. According to new reports from the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), the figures have grown exponentially over the past few years, with current numbers likely to be revised upwards following the processing of requests.

By the end of 2024, there were 1,546,521 immigrants living in the European country, with approved applications expected to take this number up by about 50,000. “It is estimated that with this revision, the number of foreigners in Portugal in 2024 will be around 1.6million,” stated the report. The revised figure would mean the number of immigrants in Portugal is almost four times greater than seven years ago.

AIMA explained how the additional 50,000 foreign citizens “were already on national territory before June 3, 2024”, when the expression of interest regime ended.

Following this date, the report noted a reduction of 59% of foreign nationals who have arrived in the country and are seeking permanent residence in Portugal. Data show the number of applications decreased from 156,951 in the first half of 2024 to 64,848 in the second half.

Reports from AIMA also rectified figures on the number of foreign citizens previously living in Portugal. In 2023, there were almost 250,000 more immigrants in Portuguese territory than previously recorded, the organisation claimed.

The minister for the presidency stated that AIMA’s interim report showed immigration was out of control. António Leitão Amaro also accused the Socialist Party of being irresponsible on the issue.

“This was undoubtedly the greatest demographic change we have witnessed in our democracy and probably in our lives. Frankly, it was also an irresponsibility that generated great inhumanity,” Mr Leitão Amaro said on Tuesday.

“Immigration was indeed out of control, but that has changed. Immigration is now regulated.” He said the current government had taken steps that “have had effects” on reducing entry flows.