Last Updated on June 18, 2024 by Laila Oliveira
It’s at times like these where you wish you had a private agent to update you every step of the way. While this recent news has shaken everyone to a certain extent, it was the need of the hour. So, what does the end of the expression of interest in Portugal mean?
Read along to learn more about this update and what it could mean for people who want to move to Portugal!
What Was The Expression Of Interest?
With the expression of interest, it allowed non-EU citizens to enter the country legally with a tourist visa and later be regularized. The regularization takes place by receiving a Resident Permit.
Applicants would submit an expression of interest form to the Portuguese immigration authorities, indicating their desire to live and work in Portugal. This system allowed individuals to initiate the residency application process while seeking employment.
With this in place, individuals were allowed to come with a tourist visa and look for a job with a job seeker visa. After they had completed at least 12 months of Social Security discounts, they would automatically be legalized.
However, the system noticed flaws that had to be changed to improve the status of applications overall. This will lead to the improvement of significant backlogs and inefficiencies that AIMA (formerly SEF) has been facing.
Why Has The Expression Of Interest Been Removed?
The Portuguese government has removed the expression of interest process to streamline and improve the immigration system. This change addresses the backlog and inefficiencies by requiring applicants to present an employment contract directly at Portuguese consulates in their country of origin.
The goal is to regulate immigration better, attract qualified professionals, and enhance the overall process.
This change is part of broader efforts to streamline the residency permit process, making it more effective and straightforward, enhancing the experience for both new arrivals and administrative bodies in Portugal.
New Action Plan For Migration
Here’s the outlined action plan for migration:
- End of expression of interest for tourists: As explained above, this is to streamline and improve the immigration system.
- Strengthening consular services: Increasing staff in key countries, especially within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), to attract workers and implement the CPLP Mobility Agreement.
- Dedicated task force: To expedite immigration applications, PCP proposes temporarily hiring 10,000 employees at AIMA.
- Attracting skilled foreign workers: Identify job opportunities for skilled and in-demand labor.
The end of the expression of interest in Portugal has taken place, and we have yet to receive news about the dedicated task force to expedite operations.
What Does This Mean For Expats?
To be clear, it does not affect the status of any current expats who are regularized currently.
For prospective expats, the removal of the expression of interest Portugal process means they must now secure an employment contract before applying for a residence permit. This change requires them to present the contract at a Portuguese consulate in their home country.
This new requirement could potentially make the immigration process more straightforward but also more competitive for those seeking to move to Portugal.
However, the process remains the same if you are interested in one of the many long-term visas. Such as the D2 Business Visa, D4 Study Visa, D7 Passive Income Visa, or the Golden Visa.
Let’s Move to Europe
With Viv Europe your plans for Europe will come to a reality
How To Move Ahead
Under new regulations, all non-EU individuals must follow the necessary arrangements if they wish to work and live in Portugal:
- Secure Employment: Find and secure a job offer in Portugal. Ensure the employment contract is valid and meets Portuguese legal standards.
- Book an appointment at the Consulate: Understand the requirements and process for submitting your application.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including your employment contract, identification, proof of qualifications, and any other required paperwork.
- Submit Application: Submit your residence permit application in person at the consulate.
- Follow-up: Stay in contact with the consulate for any updates.
Visas To Portugal
Here’s a list of all the different types of Visas for expats that Viv Europe helps with:
- D1 – Work Visa
- D2 – Business Visa
- D3 – Highly Qualified Worker
- D4 & D5 – Study Visa
- D6 – Family Reunification
- D7 – Passive Income Visa
- D8 – Digital Nomad Visa
- Golden Visa
Do You Need Help Moving To Portugal?
It’s normal to feel confused about new rules and regulations after changes occur. If you’re considering moving to Portugal, staying informed about these rules is essential.
Book a consultation with Viv Europe and start your relocation process for a seamless journey to Europe. Schedule a meeting to discuss which visa you’re interested in, and we’ll take care of the rest!
