At Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova, we continuously monitor global immigration and residency developments to keep our clients informed and strategically prepared. One of the most impactful updates in Europe this year comes from Portugal, where a new Immigration Law has been officially promulgated, significantly reshaping how foreign citizens can live, work, and reunite with their families in the country.
A New Era for Immigration in Portugal
On October 16, 2025, the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, officially promulgated the new Immigration Law, signaling a major shift in national immigration policy. After months of intense parliamentary debate, and a constitutional review process, the law was approved by 70% of the Portuguese Parliament and entered into force upon publication in the Official Gazette (Diário da República).
This legislation brings comprehensive changes to the rules governing the entry, residence, and status of foreign nationals, as well as the responsibilities of AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum). The reform aims to increase administrative efficiency, improve legal certainty, and ensure a more selective immigration process.
At Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova, our consultants assist individuals, families, and investors in understanding these new requirements and adjusting their immigration or residency strategies accordingly.
Key Changes in Portugal’s New Immigration Law
1. Stricter Family Reunification Requirements
One of the most notable updates concerns family reunification. Under the new law, only foreign citizens who have held a valid residence permit for at least two years are eligible to apply for family reunification.
Exceptions include:
- Families with minor or dependent children
- Spouses or partners who are legal guardians of minors
- De facto couples living together for at least 18 months, eligible after 15 months of legal residence
- Golden Visa holders, highly qualified professionals, and EU Blue Card holders
This reform is intended to better regulate migration flows while maintaining humanitarian protections for families and dependents.
2. Job-Seeking Visas Restricted to Qualified Professionals
Another significant change is the limitation of job-seeking visas to highly qualified professionals. The specific list of eligible professions will be outlined in a forthcoming ministerial ordinance.
The objective is to attract specialized talent that contributes to Portugal’s economy and innovation sectors, while preventing unregulated entry under job-seeking pretexts.
If you’re a skilled professional considering relocating to Portugal, Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova can help you determine whether your qualifications meet the new criteria and guide you through the visa application process.
3. End of In-Country Regularization for CPLP Citizens
Citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries (CPLP), including Brazil, Angola, and Cape Verde, will no longer be able to enter Portugal as tourists and later apply for a residence permit.
From now on, they must obtain the correct visa before traveling. This change aligns Portugal’s immigration rules with broader European Union standards and enhances border management procedures.
4. New Timelines and Responsibilities for AIMA
The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) now has a maximum of 90 days to decide on family reunification requests, with extensions permitted only in exceptional cases.
Applicants also gain the right to take legal action if administrative delays cause serious harm to their rights, a new safeguard intended to enhance accountability and transparency.
At Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova, we provide end-to-end support in preparing complete, compliant applications to help clients avoid unnecessary delays and ensure smooth interaction with AIMA.
5. End of Automatic Residence Document Extensions
Effective October 15, 2025, the automatic extension of expired residence permits, a temporary measure introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, has officially ended.
While the government reports progress in reducing backlogs, AIMA offices remain under pressure, with long queues and extended waiting times for renewals. Individuals who have paid their renewal fees and scheduled appointments will receive a certificate valid for 180 days, granting legal status while awaiting document issuance.
Since June, over 190,000 residence cards have been issued, including 55,000 to CPLP citizens, signaling the scale of administrative demand under the new framework.
What These Changes Mean for You
Portugal’s new Immigration Law represents a strategic effort to modernize the country’s immigration system, enhance control over migration flows, and prioritize skilled and compliant applicants.
For individuals seeking to relocate, invest, or reunite with family in Portugal, it is now more important than ever to obtain accurate guidance and professional representation.
How Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova Can Help
At Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova, we specialize in European residency and citizenship solutions, offering expert advisory and full application support for clients seeking to relocate to Portugal or other EU destinations.
Our services include:
- Personalized consultations on Portugal visa and residence permit options.
- Guidance on family reunification, job-seeking, and Golden Visa pathways.
- Preparation and submission of compliant applications under the new law.
- Coordination with legal and immigration partners in Portugal.
- Ongoing assistance with renewals, document legalization, and post-arrival integration.
Whether you are a professional seeking opportunities, a family planning a relocation, or an investor exploring Portugal’s residency programs, our experts ensure your transition complies with all the latest legal requirements.
Stay Informed and Prepared
The promulgation of Portugal’s 2025 Immigration Law marks a turning point in the country’s approach to migration. As the new regulations take effect, staying informed and well-advised is essential for anyone considering Portugal as their next destination.
With Fast Passport Boutique by Jane Katkova, you gain access to experienced professionals who understand both Portuguese immigration law and the global mobility landscape — ensuring your relocation journey is smooth, compliant, and successful.
Contact Fast Passport Boutique today to schedule a consultation and explore your residency options under Portugal’s updated immigration framework.
Last Updated on 11 December 2025
