On 19 March 2026, the Portuguese Government approved a bill proposing significant amendments to the legal framework governing the entry, stay, exit, and removal of foreign nationals in Portugal.
According to the Government’s announcement, the proposal aimed to make return procedures more effective and accelerate the enforcement of removal decisions concerning foreign nationals in an irregular situation.
Key Measures Announced
The proposed measures included:
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Removing the separate notification for voluntary departure to streamline return procedures;
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Encouraging voluntary return, including through possible financial incentives;
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Extending detention periods from the then-existing 60-day limit to up to 360 days within removal decision procedures, with a further 180-day period for enforcement; and
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Allowing asylum and removal proceedings to progress simultaneously, with the stated aim of preventing asylum applications from being used solely to delay removal.
The Government also announced plans to centralise return procedures within the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders of the Public Security Police (PSP).
Other proposed changes included alternatives to detention, such as surrendering travel documents or providing a financial guarantee. Detention would remain a measure of last resort.
The proposal also sought to revise the grounds preventing removal, placing greater emphasis on an effective connection to Portugal, and to extend entry bans following forced removal.
Government Approval and the Final Law Are Different Stages
Government approval of a bill does not, by itself, bring the proposed measures into force.
The March announcement described an initiative intended for submission to Parliament. Its provisions should therefore be distinguished from the wording ultimately adopted, published, and brought into effect.
This distinction is particularly important when discussing detention limits, procedural safeguards, and appeal rights. A government announcement provides context, but the applicable legal text determines the rules governing an individual case.
Why Informed Legal Support Matters
For foreign nationals, the practical priority is to understand their immigration status, keep relevant documents up to date, and respond promptly to official notifications.
Anyone facing a return or removal procedure should obtain advice on the legal basis of the decision, the applicable deadlines, and the remedies available in their circumstances.
Applicants experiencing AIMA delays should also seek clarification about their own position rather than assume that a delayed appointment necessarily places them within the scope of removal procedures.
Final Thoughts
The March proposal signalled the Government’s intention to strengthen immigration enforcement and accelerate return procedures.
For those affected, understanding the applicable rules and procedural protections is essential. Specialised legal assistance can help applicants assess their position, meet deadlines, and make informed decisions.
At Visas.pt, our team can help you understand your immigration circumstances and identify the appropriate next steps.
Source: Portuguese Government announcement, published on 23 March 2026.