New rules for entry and stay in Portugal

Law No. 61/2025 of October 22nd, which amends Law No. 23/2007 and Decree-Law No. 37-A/2024, reforming the legal regime for the entry and stay of foreigners in Portugal, came into force on October 23rd. Among the main changes are the elimination of residence permits based on expressions of interest, the creation of a visa for the search for qualified work, the strengthening of requirements for family reunification, the establishment of more defined deadlines for decisions on applications, and the introduction of a specific regime of judicial oversight regarding decisions and omissions of AIMA, I.P.

Temporary stay, short-term stay, and qualified work search visas will now be subject to more restrictive criteria, requiring, in particular, a return transport document and providing for refusal in case of irregular entry or stay. The new visa for seeking skilled work is intended for citizens of third countries with specialized skills, allowing them to remain in Portugal until the visa expires or a residence permit is granted. A new application is prohibited for one year if no work is started within the stipulated period. These visas are valid exclusively for national territory. CPLP nationals holding a residence visa can apply for a CPLP residence permit at AIMA.

Regarding family reunification, it is generally required that the resident holds a valid permit for at least two years, as well as proof of adequate accommodation and sufficient means of subsistence, without recourse to social benefits. Family members are subject to integration obligations, including training in the Portuguese language and constitutional principles, and the decision period is set at nine months, extendable only once. The law also provides for the possibility of converting certain residence permits within 180 days and allows for the signing of bilateral agreements with third countries to facilitate mobility in strategic sectors, promoting integration and labor protection.