The New Foreigners & Borders Law 2025 in Portugal
What you need to know about the major immigration reforms and how they may affect visa‑holders, residents and applicants
Table of Contents
- Introduction – Why the Reform?
- Legislative Context and Key Dates
- Major Changes at a Glance
- Implications for Applicants & Residents
- Step-by-Step Compliance Tips
- What’s Still Unclear or Pending
- Conclusão
- References
1. Introduction – Why the Reform?
In 2025, Portugal introduced wide-ranging changes to its immigration law. These reforms aim to improve security, manage migration, and ensure that only applicants with legitimate reasons and resources gain entry or residency.
2. Legislative Context and Key Dates
The amendments to Law No. 23/2007 were approved in July 2025. Implementation is ongoing, with some rules already active and others awaiting regulation by AIMA and supporting agencies.
Legislative Context and Key Dates
3. Major Changes at a Glance
3.1 Criminal Background Checks Before Entry
Applicants must present criminal records from all countries they’ve lived in over the last five years. Serious convictions lead to automatic rejection.
3.2 Income & Livelihood Requirements
Applicants must prove self-sufficiency. Evidence includes contracts, bank statements, or letters of support. Minimum monthly income aligns with the national minimum wage (€760+).
3.3 Proof of Suitable Accommodation
Visa applicants must provide a lease agreement or certified hosting declaration. Authorities now verify actual residency to prevent fraud.
3.4 Restrictions on Public Subsidy Use
Residents not contributing to social security or IRS for 12 consecutive months risk non-renewal. Abuse of benefits is flagged via inter-agency data checks.
3.5 Social and Civic Integration
In some cases, residents must show integration efforts: Portuguese lessons, child school enrolment, or work programs.
Social and Civic Integration
3.6 Expulsion and Re-Entry Bans
Expulsion applies to those committing serious crimes or using false documents. Re-entry may be barred for up to 10 years.
3.7 Agency Cooperation
Agencies such as AIMA, PJ, GNR, and SIS now share applicant data in real-time to detect fraud or national security threats.
4. Implications for Applicants & Residents
Applicants need stronger documentation. Renewals depend on income, contributions, and integration efforts. Fake documents or dependency on public aid can trigger rejection.
5. Step-by-Step Compliance Tips
- Request criminal records early.
- Keep detailed income proof ready.
- Secure a real, verifiable address.
- Contribute to IRS and Social Security.
- Engage with Portuguese language or civic programs.
- Avoid fraud (fake documents, contracts, marriages).
- Stay updated with AIMA announcements.
6. What’s Still Unclear or Pending
Some rules await implementation. It’s also unclear whether family reunification rules will change under constitutional challenge. Always verify with official AIMA updates.
The New Foreigners & Borders Law 2025 in Portugal
7. Conclusion
Portugal’s 2025 law targets stricter control over immigration — favouring applicants who bring value, stability, and integration potential. Those lacking income, housing or with serious legal records may be denied access or renewal.
8. References
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