Latest news and stories about visa rules in Portugal for expats and residents.
The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) has added an option to its contact form for scheduling appointments based on vocational training courses. This allows thousands of people enrolled in these technical courses to apply for a residence permit, a process previously restricted to judicial channels. Applicants must submit digital copies of their passport, enrollment proof, and tuition payment receipts. The courses must be certified by the DGERT to be eligible. This pathway has seen increased demand following changes to Portuguese immigration rules, as it does not require a prior visa.
Brazilian lawyer André Lima addresses a reader's query regarding immigration. He clarifies that the previous 'manifestation of interest' process has been abolished, meaning that entering as a tourist and finding a job is no longer a direct path to residency. He outlines alternative legal routes, such as residency for study, family reunification, or humanitarian protection, while advising that each case requires individual assessment.
Brazilian lawyer André Lima addresses the uncertainty surrounding the suspension of the job seeker visa in Portugal. He explains that the most secure alternative is to secure a job offer while still in Brazil, allowing for a residence visa application based on a work contract. Other options include the D2 visa for entrepreneurs and the Tech Visa for highly qualified technology professionals, reflecting a shift in Portuguese immigration policy toward pre-arranged employment and structured professional projects.
Starting April 17, 2026, Portuguese authorities will require Brazilian visa applicants to submit their applications in person at designated Visa Application Centres or Portuguese embassies, ending the previous postal submission option. This change aims to enhance security, streamline processing, and incorporate digital tools like biometric verification and real-time tracking. Applicants may face challenges such as increased travel for in-person submissions and potential appointment backlogs, especially during peak periods. Overall, the new process seeks to improve efficiency and security in visa handling for Brazilian nationals traveling to Portugal.
