Article by Raquel Dias  - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

Working in immigration law and investment in Portugal is both challenging and rewarding. No two days are alike; each day brings a different story, a new challenge, but one thing remains constant: the certainty that my work impacts the lives of my clients. And that is what motivates me every single day.

I’d like to share a glimpse into a day in my life as an immigration lawyer at IAS.

6:30 AM - A Calm Breakfast

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. I love starting my morning slowly, without rushing. I take the opportunity to read the latest news and check the top online newspapers to stay informed. By around 8:00 a.m., I’m already at the office. My first task is always to prepare my to-do list: I set priorities, review the day’s meetings, and plan my schedule. For me, the first 30 minutes at the office are the most important, as they set the tone for the rest of the day. Planning is essential to ensure I have the most productive day possible.

10:30 AM - Coffee Break

A quick coffee and a brief moment to recharge before diving into the rest of the morning.

11:00 AM - Meetings and Document Review for Bank Account Openings

I hold a few meetings, taking time to understand clients’ concerns and provide clear, practical answers. After the meetings, I review the necessary documents to move forward with bank account openings, a key step in the Golden Visa process for many of our clients.

12:30 PM - Brunch & Breather

Once the morning ends, it’s time for lunch, the perfect opportunity to relax, catch up with colleagues, and recharge for the afternoon ahead.

1:30 PM - Afternoon Meetings

I begin the afternoon with a meeting with a client interested in submitting a nationality application. In addition to explaining the legal requirements, we also talk about life in Portugal and the experiences they shouldn’t miss when they move here, a lighter, more human part of the conversation that I always enjoy.

3:30 PM - Preparing Documents for Biometric Appointments

Preparing for a biometric appointment is a crucial step and often marks a meaningful milestone for our clients. I carefully review all the documents, knowing that the next day, a family will be one step closer to obtaining their residence cards.

5:30 PM - End of the Day

My workday wraps up around 5:00 p.m., and I end the day the same way I started, reviewing what was completed, what remains pending, and preparing for tomorrow. By 5:30 p.m., I shut down my computer and head home for dinner with my family, a TV series with my partner, and a walk with my dog.

As I said before, one thing remains true every day: the knowledge that my work has a real impact on the lives of my clients. And because of that, I carry a little piece of each of their stories with me every single day.