Latest news and stories about family reunification in Portugal for expats and residents.
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A lawyer explains the legal limits of family reunification, outlining who qualifies, eligibility rules, procedural and residency restrictions, and common obstacles applicants face.
AIMA announced today the issuance of the so-called CRUE Residence Card, a document that links the right to remain in the country to family ties.
The article outlines significant changes in Portugal's immigration and nationality laws from December 2024 to September 2025. Key developments include: 1. Technical Amendments: In February 2025, Law No 9/2025 updated the Law on Foreigners (Law 23/2007) to comply with EU Entry/Exit regulations, clarifying the issuance and validity of residence authorizations for nationals from Portuguese-speaking countries. 2. Tightened Nationality Rules: A government proposal in June 2025 suggested stricter nationality acquisition criteria, including longer residence requirements (seven years for Portuguese speakers, ten years for others), mandatory language and civic tests, and revised family reunification criteria. 3. Parliamentary Approval: In July 2025, Parliament approved a reform package that codified these changes, including longer residence thresholds and enhanced integration requirements. 4. Constitutional Court Intervention: In August 2025, the Constitutional Court struck down several provisions of the new immigration law, particularly those limiting family reunification, citing violations of constitutional rights. This led to political debates and a return of the decree to Parliament for reconsideration. 5. Ongoing Revisions: Following the court's decision, the government initiated efforts in September 2025 to amend the immigration law in accordance with constitutional standards. Overall, this period marks a significant legislative shift in Portugal's approach to immigration and nationality, characterized by both reforms and judicial challenges.
The article discusses proposed amendments to Portugal's Immigration Law, which aim to tighten migration controls. Key changes include the abolition of the “Expression of Interest” mechanism, removing a pathway for third-country nationals to apply for residence permits without a visa. A new temporary visa for qualified job seekers will allow a 120-day stay to find employment, with a one-year waiting period for reapplication if unsuccessful. Stricter family reunification rules will require a valid residence permit for at least two years, proof of cohabitation or financial dependency, and participation in language and civic integration programs. The entrepreneur residence route will be reinforced to focus on innovative projects within certified incubators. Additionally, the bill introduces limited judicial remedies for immigration agency delays and promotes bilateral agreements for worker mobility in key sectors.
