Immigration laws are becoming tighter in Portugal. You can’t just enter Portugal as a tourist and then apply for residency from within Portugal. Instead, you must obtain the appropriate visa/residence permit before entering.
Also, the job seeker visa will no longer be offered. Instead, there will be a job seeker visa for qualified work.
Thirdly, there is an increase in the required years of residence before applying for Portuguese citizenship. Instead of five years, the government requires seven years for Portuguese-speaking citizens (Lusophone countries) and 10 years for other citizens. There’s a couple more rules in terms of Immigration in Portugal:
- Proof of knowledge of the Portuguese language, culture, history and national symbols, through a certificate or test
- Present means of subsistence
- Sign a solemn declaration of adherence to the principles of the Portuguese republic
- You cannot have been convicted of a crime, with a final judgement, to a prison sentence of 2 or more years.
There are also changes to note in the granting of nationality at birth to children of foreigners. Parents must now have been legally resident in the country for at least five years. With regards to descendants of Portuguese nationals, the granting of nationality is extended from grandchildren to great-grandchildren, provided they meet the “requirements of effective connection” to Portugal.
These rules are still finalizing or subject to constitutional/legal challenges. Certain provisions (e.g., criminal record rules) have been contested in Portuguese courts, and parts may be amended.
As you can see here, the job seeker visa is not yet available. These rules may take time, suffer changes over time and their application can vary. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, consult Portuguese immigration authorities or a qualified immigration professional.
There is also some news about residency cards.
More news about Portugal see here.
