In the current global landscape, Portugal remains one of the most sought-after destinations for investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking security and quality of life. However, the legislative framework is constantly evolving. Recently, the Portuguese Government announced that it is considering significant updates to citizenship and immigration laws, aiming to balance openness to international talent with more rigorous and structured control of migration flows.
At FA ACCOUNTING, we closely monitor these dynamics to ensure our clients — individuals and companies — make informed and sustainable decisions.
What Is at Stake?
The proposals under discussion aim to address the country’s demographic and economic challenges while ensuring an efficient integration system. According to recent developments, the main pillars of change focus on:
- Review of Citizenship Deadlines and Criteria: Adjustments to how residency time is counted are being evaluated, alongside reinforced verification of integration requirements (such as language proficiency and clean criminal records).
- Stricter Family Reunification: To ensure proper integration, the government is considering requiring minimum periods of effective legal residency before residents can apply for family reunification.
- End of Exceptional Regularization Mechanisms: The trend points toward reinforcing the requirement for consular visas obtained in countries of origin, discouraging entry as a tourist for subsequent labor regularization.
- Focus on Visas for Strategic Sectors: Interest remains in attracting qualified profiles and investors who contribute to the real economy, albeit with tighter supervision.
The Impact for Investors and Expats
For those already residing in Portugal or planning to move in 2025, these changes reinforce the need for rigorous planning. The transition from an “open doors” regime to a more regulated system means that document compliance and meeting tax and legal deadlines are more critical than ever.
For example, in the case of the Golden Visa or other residency visas, maintaining legal status and proof of subsistence become fundamental pillars for those aspiring to long-term Portuguese citizenship.
How FA ACCOUNTING Can Support You
As strategic partners for many foreign citizens and international companies in Portugal, our immigration consultancy and tax management team offers:
- Compliance Audit: We verify if your current process meets all new legal requirements.
- Citizenship Planning: Advice on residency time counting and document preparation for nationality applications.
- Investment Visa Support: Full process management for investors (including new non-real estate rules).
- HR Management for Companies: Support in the legal hiring of foreign workers and fulfillment of Social Security obligations.
Conclusion
Although the legislative proposals are still ongoing, the message is clear: Portugal is moving toward more selective and monitored immigration. Anticipating these changes is the differentiator between a smooth transition and unexpected bureaucratic complications.
Do you need to clarify the impact of these measures on your personal case or business?
Contact the FA ACCOUNTING team
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation of official legislation or personalized professional advice.