In 2025, Portugal launched a large-scale operation to notify thousands of immigrants that they must leave the country voluntarily within 20 days. The measure affects people from multiple nationalities and signals a clear shift in the country’s immigration policy, as the government works to streamline a backlog of pending residency requests.
In this article, you’ll learn why this is happening, who is affected, what to do if you’re notified, and how to prepare for a legal move to Portugal.
Why is Portugal notifying immigrants to leave?
End of the “manifestation of interest” process
Until 2023, many immigrants used a mechanism called manifestation of interest to apply for residency while already in Portugal, even without an entry visa. With this option abolished in 2024, the government began reviewing more than 440,000 pending applications.
As a result, over 184,000 cases have been processed, and about 34,000 have been rejected. Those whose requests were denied are now receiving notifications.
Combatting irregular residency
This effort aims to reduce the number of people living in irregular situations, often waiting years for responses. The Portuguese government is now enforcing voluntary departure deadlines to avoid forced deportations but retains the right to take coercive action if the orders are ignored.
Political and economic pressure
The immigration crackdown comes amid economic challenges and political pressure, as the country heads into parliamentary elections. The stricter stance is seen by some as a response to domestic concerns around housing, jobs, and public services.
Who is being affected?
The notifications target immigrants from various nationalities, including:
- Indians (over 13,000 notified)
- Brazilians (around 5,000)
- Citizens from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and sub-Saharan Africa
Each person has 10 to 20 days to leave Portugal voluntarily. Failure to comply may result in forced deportation and bans on re-entering the Schengen Area.
What are the risks of not complying?
Failing to meet the deadline can lead to serious consequences:
- Forced deportation with police escort
- Detention in immigration holding centers
- Legal sanctions and negative records across European databases
- Loss of future immigration opportunities
Can I appeal the decision?
Yes, but time is crucial. Immigrants may file:
- An administrative appeal with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum)
- A legal appeal if there are strong grounds for staying
To increase your chances:
- Submit new supporting documents
- Hire a lawyer specialized in immigration law
- File the appeal before the deadline stated in the notice
What should I do if I get notified?
- Read the notice carefully and check the deadline.
- Seek legal advice immediately.
- Gather evidence to support your case.
- Decide quickly whether to appeal or comply.
- Do not wait for the deadline to expire.
How to migrate legally to Portugal
If you’re planning to move to Portugal, the best approach is:
- Apply for a visa from your home country.
- Choose the appropriate visa type: work, study, entrepreneur, digital nomad, etc.
- Submit complete documentation: employment, income, health insurance, accommodation.
- Avoid attempting to regularize your status after entering as a tourist — this is increasingly being denied.
Conclusion
Portugal’s updated immigration policies mark a turning point in how the country manages foreign residents. The mass notification effort shows that informal residency is no longer tolerated.
If you’ve been affected, take the notice seriously and seek legal help. If you’re still planning your move, the key is legality, preparation, and foresight.
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