Portugal Announces Stricter Immigration Rules and Work Visa Requirement

In a significant policy shift, Portugal has unveiled new immigration regulations that require most foreigners to secure a work visa prior to entering the country. This marks a departure from the previous practice where individuals could enter on a tourist visa and apply for residency post-employment.

The announcement was made by Presidency Minister Antonio Leitao Amaro during a press conference following governmental approval. Amaro stressed the importance of regulated immigration to avoid uncertainties for immigrants.

The policy change comes in response to a notable surge in foreign residents in Portugal, with a 33% increase in 2023, bringing the total foreign population to a record-breaking one million, representing about 10% of the nation’s population.

The Portuguese government plans to prioritize visas for individuals from Portuguese-speaking countries, students, and high-skilled workers. These changes are expected to impact immigrants from countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. To address the backlog of 400,000 regularisation processes, a special task force will be established with additional staff.

Portugal has become an attractive destination due to its high quality of life and affordable living costs compared to other Western European nations. The country offers a pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural cities like Lisbon and Porto.

The country’s hospitable nature, efficient healthcare system, and strong education standards make it a popular choice for expatriates seeking stability and enriching experiences.