Portugal changes rules for highly skilled professionals. Learn about the country's latest immigration reforms in 2026, restrictions on family reunification and the abolition of legalization through expressions of interest

Portugal is implementing major immigration reforms that will change the rules for foreigners who plan to work, live or join their families in the country. These changes are aimed at attracting highly skilled workers, increasing administrative efficiency and harmonizing immigration regulations with other European countries.

We will tell you about the new rules for highly skilled professionals in this article.

Planning to move to Portugal? Our experienced migration specialists will help you prepare all the necessary documents, check compliance with the new visa requirements and ensure legal entry. Get personalized advice and reduce the risk of rejection.

Contact us now and start preparing for your move without stress!

New rules for job seekers

From October 2025, the job search visa has been replaced by the “highly skilled job search visa”, which provides for:

- 120 days to look for work in Portugal (with a possible extension of another 60 days);

- the need to leave the country in case of failure and wait a year before reapplying;

- access only to the territory of Portugal, without automatic right to other Schengen countries;

- the right to obtain a visa only for persons with “specialized technical activities”, the details of which will be determined by ministerial order.

It is currently impossible to apply for this visa, as the rules have not yet been implemented. Experts predict that the new requirements will significantly limit immigration opportunities for those who are not highly qualified specialists.

Restrictions on family reunification

The law also changed the conditions for family reunification:

- Sponsors must have been legally resident in Portugal for at least two years;

- Only family members who are legally present in the country are eligible for reunification;

- The criteria for verifying applications have been expanded, including the availability of adequate housing, sufficient finances and compliance with integration measures, such as learning the Portuguese language.

These changes allow the state to guarantee that families who are reunified are financially secure and integrated into society.

Abolition of the legalization path through “demonstrated interest”

Previously, foreigners could legalize their stay after arriving in Portugal by paying social security contributions for a year. As of December 31, 2025, this path has been abolished. Now, in order to reside in Portugal, it is necessary to obtain a residence visa in their country of origin, which makes legal entry much more difficult for many people.

New consequences of illegal stay

Foreigners who have previously been in Portugal illegally now automatically risk having their visas refused for up to 7 years. This law establishes clear legal consequences for illegal entry or overstaying, which previously depended on the authorities’ verbal discretion.

Tips for future immigrants in Portugal

1. Plan your visa in advance

The new visa for highly skilled workers has not yet opened for applications, so keep an eye on the official Portuguese consulate portals for updates.

2. Check your eligibility

The visa is only available to those engaged in specialized technical activities. Make sure your profession falls under the criteria before applying.

3. Secure your legal status

Illegal stay in Portugal now automatically results in a visa refusal for up to 7 years.

4. Take care of finances and housing

To reunite a family, you need to have enough funds and proper living conditions for all family members.

5. Integrate into society

Learning Portuguese and knowing constitutional values ​​increases the chances of successful paperwork and a comfortable life in the country.

The reforms reflect a general trend of moving away from a system of legalization upon arrival to immigration control through consular visas. This approach increases predictability, reduces administrative delays and aligns Portuguese rules with practices in other European countries.

It is expected that changes will also affect naturalization and citizenship procedures in the near future, but the final text of the reforms is still being considered by the Constitutional Court.

Not sure about your legal status or need help with residence permits? Our migration consultants will help you understand all the new rules in Portugal, including the visa for highly qualified professionals and restrictions on family reunification.

Book a consultation today and ensure successful immigration!

Reminder! In 2026, many countries introduced new requirements for tourists: ETIAS in the EU, ETA in the UK, an updated ESTA for the US and digital arrival cards. We have already explained what will change and how to prepare for your trip in advance.

Photo – pixabay.com

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