I arrived in Portugal from the UK to begin a new life here in October last year. Just like Jeremy I have tried contacting SEF hundreds of times by phone and email just to arrange a time and place to present my documents. I even attended the Albufeira SEF office in person on one occasion, only to be sent away without an appointment.

Like Jeremy I am a law-abiding citizen who does not want to be an illegal immigrant. But the failure of the Portuguese system leaves me no choice if I want to stay here (which I do!)

A very dear relative of mine died recently in the UK. I am unable to attend her funeral because I am afraid I will not be allowed to return to Portugal having now ‘overstayed’ the 90 days permitted.

Like Jeremy I don’t blame the Portuguese people who are wonderfully welcoming and respectful. I have some sympathy for Portuguese politicians whose hands I suspect may be tied by Paris, Berlin or Brussels. But the situation is farcical and needs to be resolved now.

Jorge Zero, By email