The President of Portugal, António José Seguro, enacted on September 1, 2026 legislation that significantly restricts regularization options for Brazilians and other foreigners who arrive in the country without a prior residence visa. The decision was announced after the Constitutional Court approved the government project, which had been approved by Parliament.
New measures affect thousands of immigrants in Portugal
The new law directly impacts thousands of Brazilians who were previously able to request regularization in Portuguese territory even if they arrived as tourists, without the need for a residence visa granted in Brazil. This change represents a tightening of the European country’s immigration policies, which seek to control the flow of foreigners.
The end of regularization for professional courses in the country
One of the main changes promoted by the package is the closure of the regularization route for students on professional courses. Previously, this modality was considered one of the most accessible ways to obtain a residence permit without a visa issued by a consulate in your country of origin. Historically, Brazilians make up the majority of students at these institutions, making the measure a major obstacle.
Restrictions for parents of children residing in Portugal
Another gateway that is closing is the possibility for foreign parents of children residing and enrolled in Portuguese schools to request a residence permit. This permission was granted to ensure family unity. The Constitutional Court, at the request of Insurance, analyzed whether the legislation would not make children vulnerable, concluding that there would be no such impact.
Anti-immigration package aims to speed up deportations
Complementing the restrictions on new residence applications, the set of measures foresees the acceleration of immigrant deportation processes. Also included is a change that could extend the period of detention of foreigners from 60 days to up to one year, raising concerns about the proportionality of the measure and its effects on human rights.
Growth of Brazilians and the context of new laws
The approval of these rules comes at a time of growth in the number of Brazilians in Portugal, even in the face of intensified government actions against irregular immigration. The general refusal of visas by Portuguese consulates in Brasília had already made the move difficult for many, and the new regulations now make the entry and stay process even more complex, requiring more rigorous planning and obtaining a visa while still in Brazil.
