New Portuguese Government Tightens Migration Rules and Imposes Restrictions on Non-EU Migrants

The new rules for immigrants in Portugal came into effect on Monday and are part of the new government's 41-move Action Plan on Migration. Newly elected Prime Minister Luiz Montenegro said he wanted to ‘put an end to... excessive abuse’ of hospitality by migrants, TSF writes.

The rule under which non-EU migrants who entered Portugal without an employment contract, worked in the country for at least a year and paid social security contributions could apply for a residence permit has been cancelled.

Now, migrants need to conclude an employment contract before moving to Portugal. This country has one of the most open immigration regimes in Europe.

In 2023, Portugal processed around 180,000 immigrant legalisations, but there are still 400,000 outstanding issues, including expressions of interest for first residence permits, family reunification requests, visa applications, visa or residence permit renewals, visa procedures for CPLP [Community of Portuguese Language Countries] nationals.

According to official figures, foreigners now make up about a million people in Portugal, which is about a tenth of the country's population.

However, at the moment, the authorities are unable to name the exact number of immigrants or refugees who are staying on the national territory awaiting legalisation.