The Government of Portugal approved a new Action Plan on migration issues, in particular, the procedure for moving to the country for the purpose of employment has become more complicated. Find out what changes to expect for citizens of non-EU countries

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The new government of Portugal has decided to strengthen the rules of migration to the country for citizens of all non-EU countries. In particular, the Prime Minister of Portugal, Luís Montenegro, said recently that there will no longer be an "open door" policy in Portugal. As part of the new Action Plan, the government has decided to significantly strengthen existing migration rules in order to reduce the number of migrants.

What will change for expats in Portugal in 2024?

The most significant change approved by the Portuguese Government is that citizens of non-EU countries will no longer be able to migrate to Portugal without an employment contract.

That is, if before foreigners could come to Portugal with a tourist visa, find a job and get a residence permit, from now on migrants who want to move to Portugal will have to first find a job, sign a contract and only then enter the country.

At the same time, the new government said it would focus on attracting foreign talent and introduce a plan to help foreigners integrate into Portugal.

The authorities also emphasized that special attention will be paid to entry rules. Controls will also be strengthened across the country to combat illegal migration and human trafficking.

Why did Portugal dare to make such changes?

Known as one of the most liberal immigration regimes in the European Union, Portugal has decided to end the rule of moving to the country without an employment contract. Portugal's new prime minister, Luis Montenegro, said the government wants to avoid excessive abuse of the system.

Portugal needs and wants more immigrants, but immigration must be regulated and controlled.

According to government data, the number of foreign residents in Portugal will increase by 33% to a record one million people in 2023, representing about 10% of the country's total population.

As of the beginning of June 2024, about 400,000 people applied for permits, and 180,000 migrants were legalized in 2023.

How can a foreigner get a residence permit in Portugal in 2024?

The most popular and most convenient ways to obtain a residence permit in Portugal are the following:

- Employment – ​​a residence permit is issued to persons who have signed a work contract with a Portuguese employer.

To be a qualified specialist - a residence permit in Portugal is granted to foreign workers who have a contract with any research organization. Qualified professionals such as university professors, academics and researchers working with any research organization can also apply.

- Obtaining a D8 visa for Digital Nomads.

- Starting a business in Portugal.

- Enrollment in a Portuguese school or university.

- Obtaining a D7 visa for financially independent persons.

- Volunteering.

- Reunification with family.

- Confirmation of refugee status.

Portugal is interested in the relocation of foreigners, but from now on it will be a little more difficult to get a work and residence permit here, so before planning migration, it is worth studying the necessary package of documents in more detail and, if necessary, getting expert advice.

The best cities in Portugal for expats in 2024 by link. The list of specialists who are in short supply in the country is in this article.

Igor Usyk - Head of Legal Department at Visit World

For safe relocation to Portugal, obtaining refugee status and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer.

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