Key Takeaways
Portugal has implemented a policy that prohibits irregular migrant workers from remaining in the country while they apply for a new work permit. Authorities state that these changes align with European regulations. Last month, new rules were introduced in Portugal aimed at removing irregular migrants from the country.
Authorities in Portugal have announced that migrant workers who arrive irregularly will no longer be allowed to stay in the country while applying for a work permit. Deputy Minister Rui Armindo Freitas, responsible for immigration policy, stated that these changes align with European regulations, as reported by Schengen.News.
However, representatives from non-governmental organizations view this move as a concession to right-wing populists who oppose immigration. They argue that it underscores the chaotic nature of Portugal’s immigration policy up to this point.
Freitas explained that the previous practice of allowing migrants to enter the country first and then obtain necessary documents had attracted many irregular migrants. He emphasized the urgency of closing this loophole, especially considering the backlog of approximately 400,000 applications for legalization at Portugal’s immigration agency, AIMA.
The processing of these applications, some of which were submitted two years ago, should be organised by June of next year at the latest. We aim to solve problems that have built up over many years.the Deputy Minister, Rui Armindo Freitas
New Measures to Remove Irregular Citizens
Last month, the Portuguese government approved the establishment of the National Unit for Foreigners within the Public Security Police (PSP). Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro criticized the previous government’s decision to dismantle the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF), calling it one of their most significant mistakes. He highlighted the resulting gaps in handling the return and removal of undocumented individuals, as well as a lack of oversight and entry control.
In June, Portugal announced its intention to end the pathway to legal status for foreign nationals who enter the country irregularly, as part of a broader initiative to tighten immigration regulations. For 17 years, Portugal had permitted individuals with valid visas to work throughout Europe to regularize their status. In 2018, this policy was expanded by the former socialist government to include those who entered without a visa. However, that practice has now been discontinued.
According to a report from the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), the number of non-European immigrants in Portugal nearly doubled over the past five years, highlighting the need for these new measures.
