Portuguese Police bring back the European control system, causing queues to return at airports.

The Public Security Police (PSP), which handles immigration at Portuguese airports, has resumed using the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) in the Schengen Area.

Since Monday, 23 March, this has led to immigration lines lasting over two hours.

Portuguese Police bring back European control system, causing queues to return at airports; PSP told PÚBLICO Brasil, “the measures seek to balance operational efficiency with security, our top priority.” The Ministry of Internal Administration suspended the European Union’s control system at Portuguese airports at the end of 2025 due to the problems it caused for passengers.

The PSP admits that during peak tourist seasons, delays in immigration lines will be more common. “It is recognised that, during periods of greater influx, this operational adaptation may cause some inconveniences and an increase in waiting times,” the statement says.

ANA, the company that runs Lisbon Airport, did not answer PÚBLICO Brasil’s questions before the deadline. Most of Portugal’s 30 million yearly tourists come through this airport.