Portugal is set to implement new family reunification rules, according to Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. While family reunification will not be suspended, the government has announced that the process will become more stringent—raising important questions for immigrant communities, particularly Brazilians and nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries.
These new regulations are a part of Portugal’s new immigration policy change that is integral part of current government since it took charge in June last year. Other major changes are linked with citizenship rules where eligibility time might be increased from 5 to 10 years.
No Suspension, But Stricter Guidelines Ahead
In a parliamentary debate on June 17, Prime Minister Montenegro confirmed that Portugal’s family reunification program—a legal provision allowing immigrants with residence permits to bring immediate family members to the country—will remain in place. However, he emphasized that the rules will be tightened, stating:
“Having integrated families in Portugal is beneficial for the economy and development. What harms us is a lack of clear rules.”
As reported by Publico.pt, the Prime Minister did not elaborate on the specific changes, leaving many migrant communities uncertain about what the upcoming reforms will entail.
Impact on Brazilian and CPLP Communities
The Brazilian community, a major beneficiary of Portugal’s current reunification policies, is watching developments closely. So are immigrants from the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), who have recently gained easier access to residence permits under EU-aligned legislation.
Portugal’s recent move to process over 440,000 pending residency applications, many linked to now-defunct “expressions of interest,” and to streamline permits for CPLP citizens had raised hopes that family reunification would remain accessible.
According to César Teixeira of AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), around 200,000 immigrants have already seen progress in their regularization processes.
Public Debate: A Divided Nation
Despite government assurances, opposition voices are gaining traction. A petition supported by Chega, a far-right populist party, calls for an eight-year suspension of family reunification. The initiative has already garnered 70,000 signatures. Petition author Tiago Pereira claims that allowing reunification could result in an influx of over 500,000 immigrants, putting pressure on public services and exacerbating the housing crisis.
In contrast, immigrant advocacy groups argue that family reunification is essential for social integration, stability, and long-term economic benefits. They stress that well-regulated immigration—including family reunification—strengthens communities and supports Portugal’s demographic and labor needs.
What to Expect from Portugal’s New Family Reunification Rules
While the government has not yet released the specifics, here are key points immigrants should monitor:
- Changes in eligibility criteria for spouses, children, and dependents
- Tighter documentation requirements
- Longer processing times or additional procedural steps
- Potential prioritization of applicants already employed or integrated into society
As details unfold, immigrants are encouraged to stay informed through official AIMA updates to understand their rights under the new family reunification framework.
Portugal remains committed to family reunification—but under stricter terms. While Portugal’s new family reunification rules aim to ensure better integration and policy control, they also introduce uncertainty for thousands hoping to reunite with loved ones. As the political and public discourse evolves, one thing is clear: immigration will remain a central issue in shaping Portugal’s future.