Portugal is set to implement a new law to accelerate the deportation of undocumented immigrants. The proposal was approved by the Council of Ministers on Thursday, March 19, following a public consultation. Minister António Leitão Amaro described the change as 'highly necessary'. Key measures include eliminating the 20-day 'voluntary departure notification' period, restricting judicial appeals, extending the maximum detention period from 60 to 360 days, and preventing asylum requests from delaying deportations. The law also increases the entry ban period to five years and prioritizes voluntary returns in partnership with Frontex and the IOM. The bill will now be sent to Parliament for approval.