In recent years, Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for immigrants. One of the major reasons behind this is the low cost of living and high-quality lifestyle. The pleasing climate with mild winters and warm summers provides an ideal year-round living environment. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer vibrant cultural scenes and culinary delights, Making it a perfect place to reside.
Seeing this, Portugal’s government has implemented a significant change in its immigration policy to ensure a more structured and beneficial process for all. Foreigners previously entered the country with a tourist visa but are now required to obtain a work visa before arrival. It will help regulate the influx of tourists and potential residents in Portugal.
After a cabinet meeting near Lisbon, the Minister of Presidency, Minister Antonio Leitao Amaro, announced this policy change during a press conference. Leitao Amaro emphasised the importance of regulating immigration and shared that lacking proper supervision can result in challenging conditions with immigrants. These points were valid, and the proposal was approved to ensure a more secure and regulated immigration process.
Leitao Amaro’s words prove to be true as the policy shift comes in response to an immense surge in foreign residents in Portugal. Government data reveals a 33% increase in 2023 with a foreign population of one million, which is a record in itself. This accounts for around 10% of Portugal’s total population.
The Portuguese government can create new visa priorities for students, skilled employees, and people from Portuguese-speaking countries. The new immigration policies are expected to affect immigrants from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh mostly.