PSP detained 30 foreign nationals in Lisbon operations
The PSP carried out dozens of immigration enforcement operations across the Lisbon region in 2025, reporting 94 operations that led to checks of 6,785 foreign nationals, 30 detentions and notices issued to nearly 100 people to voluntarily leave the country, according to police and multiple outlets. Some reports say detentions took place at Lisbon airport and other city locations. Immigrants affected or those uncertain about status should seek legal advice and support from NGOs; travellers should keep identity documents accessible during transit.
The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) is Portugal's national civilian police force, founded in 1867. Responsible for defending Republican democracy and safeguarding internal security and citizens' rights, the PSP polices major cities—Lisbon, Porto, Faro—and large urban areas, covering only 4% of Portugal's territory but roughly half the population. Led by a National Director under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, its approximately 21,500 officers handle preventive policing, crime investigation, public order, airport security, diplomatic protection, private security regulation, firearms licensing, and border control (since 2023).
PSP vs. GNR: The PSP is civilian with police-focused training and urban jurisdiction, while the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) is military (gendarmerie) with military training, covering 96% of Portugal's rural and suburban territory. Both share core public safety missions but differ fundamentally in nature, training, and geographic responsibility.
A notice to voluntarily leave (notificação de saída voluntária) is an administrative order given to an irregular migrant requiring them to leave Portugal within a short deadline, often around 30 days, without formal deportation. Accepting it can avoid immediate removal and some entry bans, but ignoring it can lead to detention, deportation and future restrictions, so those affected should seek legal advice.