Introduction
Portugal has announced seven transformative immigration laws that will completely overhaul its existing system. These changes also mark a significant shift from the country’s friendly immigration policies, which have been in effect since 2007. On 16 July 2025, the Portuguese Parliament passed this legislation, paving the way for stricter regulations to take effect soon.
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Key Changes
1. End of the “Expression of Interest” Pathway
The previous system, which allowed individuals who entered Portugal legally or illegally to obtain residency by working and paying taxes, has been abolished. Now, only those who were present in Portugal and paying social security before 3 June 2024 may apply for residency, and they must do so by 31 December 2025. This eliminates the pathway for illegal immigrants to regularize their status post-entry.
2. Stricter Job Seeker Visa Rules
The job seeker visa, frequently misused in the past, now requires applicants to secure employment within 120 days of arriving in Portugal. Failure to do so will result in deportation. Those deported under this rule must wait one year before reapplying for the same visa category.
3. Abolition of Post-Entry Legalization
Entering Portugal without a valid work permit is no longer permissible. All migrants must now obtain authorization before arrival.
4. Tighter Family Reunification Policies
Residency holders must reside legally in Portugal for two years before applying for family reunification. Minor children already in the country are exempt.
5. Special Provisions for Minors and Brazilian Nationals
- Unaccompanied minors will receive institutional protection and residency permits under exceptional provisions.
- Brazilian nationals (and other Portuguese-speaking countries) face distinct rules, including shorter residency requirements for citizenship.
6. Mandatory Processing Deadlines for AIMA
Portugal’s immigration authority (AIMA) must now issue decisions on residency applications within nine months.
7. New Deportation Unit
A dedicated unit will enforce deportations of non-compliant migrants.
Pending Change: Nationality Law
A proposed amendment to citizenship rules is expected to be voted on in September 2025:
- Non-Portuguese-speaking immigrants: Residency requirement increases from 5 to 10 years.
- Brazilian/Portuguese-speaking nationals: Residency requirement reduced to 7 years.
Note: Only legal residence periods count toward citizenship eligibility.
Conclusion
Portugal’s new laws aim to drastically reduce immigration by closing loopholes and enforcing stricter entry and residency criteria. With these changes, the country signals an end to its era of accessible regularization for undocumented migrants.
