Latest news and stories about immigration law in Portugal for expats and residents.
Brazilian expatriates in Portugal are raising concerns over immigration law changes, rising xenophobia, and administrative backlogs at AIMA ahead of President Lula da Silva's visit, urging diplomatic intervention.
The Portuguese Council of Ministers has approved amendments to immigration and asylum laws regarding returns, balancing EU compliance requirements with concerns over detention periods and judicial oversight. While the proposal introduces positive alternatives to detention, critics highlight risks regarding the extension of detention limits and the potential impact on families.
The government's new return law signals a potential alignment with Chega, creating political tension as the Socialist Party (PS) considers severing ties with the administration.
Brazilian lawyer André Lima discusses whether serious health conditions, such as cancer, provide priority in renewing residence permits in Portugal. He clarifies that while the Foreigners' Law does not guarantee automatic priority, the legal system allows for urgent treatment requests based on individual circumstances, emphasizing protections rooted in constitutional rights and administrative principles.
The new return laws, discussed in Portugal and the EU, imply a difficult balance between individual rights and the powers of the State in migration management
The Constitutional Court (TC) in Portugal is facing intense scrutiny and controversy, with some calling for its abolition due to perceived political bias and issues with the selection process of its judges. This article argues that while the court's quality has declined and its selection method needs reform, abolishing it or transferring its powers to the Supreme Court of Justice would be a mistake, as it would undermine the transparent, pluralistic process required to interpret constitutional law in a complex society.
The proposal submitted to Parliament maintains a ban of up to five years, which may be extended if there is a serious threat to public order or security.
The operation also resulted in nine notifications for voluntary departure from national territory and 10 administrative offence notices.
The ECB anticipates a more pronounced general rise in prices this year. The latest forecast pointed to 1.9%. Additionally, the Government approved the new Return Law proposal on immigration this afternoon.
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.
Three detainees are suspected of various violent crimes and aiding illegal immigration. The National Counter-Terrorism Unit seized several weapons, documents, and 'relevant material'.
A lawyer explains the legal limits of family reunification, outlining who qualifies, eligibility rules, procedural and residency restrictions, and common obstacles applicants face.
Antas da Cunha Ecija has promoted Bruna Casagrande to partner. The lawyer has coordinated the Immigration and Citizenship desk since 2021. "Bruna is a highly competent professional who, over the years, has distinguished herself by her quality and creativity, critical thinking and strategic sense, and her ability to build strong relationships with clients and ...
Portugal has revised the wording in its return legislation, replacing the concept of 'voluntary abandonment' with a formal 'duty to abandon'. The change aims to align national law with EU return standards and clarifies that third‑country nationals subject to removal decisions have an obligation to leave Portuguese territory, with possible effects on enforcement, deadlines and legal safeguards.
Home News Law on the return of foreigners may be unconstitutional Law on the return of foreigners may be unconstitutional Ana Rita Gil, a lawyer, believes that the new law on the return of foreigners has norms that may be unconstitutional, despite following the rules promoted by the European Unio
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.
