Admin Hub, lisbon project

New Plan of Migration 2024

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What is it?

Portugal's Migration Action Plan (*Plano de Ação para as Migrações*), presented on the 3rd of June 2024, introduced 41 measures to change how immigration is managed and how migrants are supported and integrated.

The plan is organised around four priorities:

  • Regulated immigration: revising entry procedures and addressing pending residence applications.
  • Attracting foreign talent: improving recruitment, professional training and recognition of qualifications.
  • Integration: strengthening access to Portuguese-language education, housing, healthcare and other public services.
  • Institutional reform: improving immigration services and coordination between public authorities and municipalities.

What Changed for Migrants?

1. End of Manifestations of Interest (*Manifestações de Interesse*)

On 4 June 2024, the procedure that allowed certain foreign nationals to seek residence through employment in Portugal without the required residence visa was discontinued for new cases.

People who had already initiated proceedings before the change may be covered by transitional rules.

2. Measures to address pending applications

The plan established a mission to tackle the large backlog of immigration applications handled by AIMA. Processing times and individual outcomes may vary, so applicants should follow official communications about their cases.

3. Changes to work-related immigration

The plan prioritised regular entry channels, including those for qualified professionals, students and family reunification. It also sought to improve recruitment procedures and better match foreign workers' skills with labour-market needs.

4. Greater focus on integration

The plan included measures to expand Portuguese-language learning, improve access to public services and strengthen local support for migrants. It also aimed to increase cooperation between public institutions, municipalities and civil-society organisations.

IMPORTANT

The Migration Action Plan is a policy framework, not a single law that automatically grants or removes residence rights. Its measures have been implemented through different legal and administrative procedures, and the rules may have changed since 2024.

Always consult the latest official guidance before making decisions about your immigration status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service.

The former procedure is no longer available for new applications. However, specific transitional arrangements may apply depending on when you started the process and your circumstances.

Where we are

Rua Carvalho Araújo 66-B
1900-140 Lisboa
Portugal

How to Get Here

  • Metro: Linha Verde (Green Line) - Alameda Station
  • Bus: 708, 730, 742, 794

Opening hours

Mon, Tue, Thu
10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30
Wednesday (Extended)
Until 19:30
Friday
Until 18:30
No appointment needed. Just walk in.

Contact info

+351 964 809 959