Article by Raquel Babo - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

Morning – Coffee, Coordination, and Calm Before the Storm

My day begins, as usual, with coffee – I take it black, no sugar, strong and necessary. It’s 6:30 AM, and while the city is still waking up, my inbox isn’t. By 7:45, I’m on my way to the office, mentally reviewing the checklist for today’s main task: a client’s Golden Visa renewal at AIMA. Renewals might sound routine, but anyone who works in immigration knows they’re anything but. Between updated requirements, system delays, and the ever-changing rules, every appointment requires attention to detail.

By 9:00, I submit the renewal application at AIMA on behalf of my client. I double-check that all documents are complete – certified passport, proof of stay and updated criminal. The submission goes smoothly, with the officer confirming that everything is in order. The next step is now just to wait for the card to be issued.

Afternoon – The Paperwork Marathon

Back at the office by noon, I grab a quick bite and dive straight into emails. AIMA updates, client follow-ups, new inquiries - it’s a full plate.

Later in the afternoon, I review a new renewal package for submission. One file is missing a freshly apostilled criminal record; another needs the mandatory proof of stay in Portugal. It’s meticulous work, but these are the details that make or break an application. Immigration law rewards patience and precision, and demands both, every single day.

Evening - Small Wins and Big Perspective

The client from this morning sends me a thank-you message: “You made it look easy.” I smile - it rarely is, but that’s part of the job.

Later, I swap the office for some downtime and settle in with Netflix, now watching The Guinness Show. It’s a perfect way to unwind and brings back fond memories of my trip to Dublin.

Immigration law isn’t glamorous, but it’s deeply rewarding. Every renewal, every approval, every message of relief from a client is a reminder of why this work matters. Tomorrow, there will be new cases and new challenges.