Article by Alexandra Lopes – Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

A Day in My Life as an Immigration Lawyer

Morning – Discipline Before the Desk

My day starts early, at 6:00 AM. Before emails, deadlines, or appointments, I begin with something that keeps me grounded: a CrossFit training session. By 7:00 AM, I’m at the gym in Matosinhos, my hometown. The workout finishes at 8:00 AM and, after heading back home for a shower and breakfast, I’m ready to shift gears for the day ahead.

Between 9:00 and 9:30 AM, I arrive at the office and officially start my workday. The first task is always the same: reading and answering emails. In immigration law, communication is essential, and staying on top of messages helps prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

Around 11:00 AM, I take a short coffee break with colleagues. These moments may seem simple, but they matter. They allow us to reset, exchange quick updates, and maintain a strong sense of teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

This part of the morning is often dominated by biometrics appointments. With a high volume of clients being called in by AIMA, my focus is on preparing documentation and making sure each client is fully informed and properly guided. Accuracy and clarity are crucial — clients need to arrive confident, prepared, and supported.

Afternoon – Clients, Coordination, and Care

At around 1:00 PM, I take my lunch break. I usually bring lunch from home, which gives me a moment to slow down before the afternoon resumes.

The afternoon is typically dedicated to client calls, follow-ups, and continued email management. These conversations are essential: they are where doubts are clarified, expectations are managed, and trust is reinforced.

If there is an AIMA appointment scheduled for the following day, I carefully review all documentation to ensure everything is correct and complete. In immigration law, preparation can make all the difference.

Once a week, we also have a team meeting. This is a space where we openly discuss challenges, ask for guidance, share workload pressures, and align on new procedures or improvements in how we work. These meetings reinforce collaboration and remind us that we can count with our colleagues.

End of the Day – Homeward Bound

By 6:30 PM, I head back home, usually commuting by metro. It marks the shift from professional responsibility to personal time.

At home, I prepare dinner, relax, and allow myself to rest. There’s a quiet sense of gratitude at the end of the day, knowing I gave my best within a demanding field.

Why This Work Matters

Immigration law is demanding and, at times, frustrating. There are factors beyond our control — delays, institutional limitations, and uncertainty, particularly when dealing with AIMA. But despite the challenges, this work is deeply rewarding.

Every case represents a real person, a story, a dream. Being entrusted with that responsibility is something I never take lightly. Each client’s success becomes a shared milestone, gently giving meaning to the long days and the careful attention devoted to every detail.

In the end, immigration law is not just about procedures or documents. It’s about helping people build futures — and being part of that journey is a privilege I’m grateful for every day.