Portugal Eases Foreigner Law: Government Backtracks on Family Reunification Restrictions for Couples with Children

In a significant policy shift, the Portuguese government has revised its proposed changes to the foreigner law, following criticism from the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and a rejection by the Constitutional Court. The initial amendments, aimed at limiting family reunification, sparked controversy but have now been softened in a new proposal.

Key changes include the removal of minimum residency periods for couples with children, making it easier for families to reunite. Additionally, the government has introduced the possibility for applications to be submitted while the family member is already in Portugal, a departure from the previous restriction that required the relative to be abroad at the time of the request.

For couples without children, the new proposal still imposes stricter requirements: a valid residency period of one year and proof of cohabitation for at least one year immediately before entering the country. This move reflects ongoing efforts by the AD-led Executive to balance immigration control with humanitarian considerations, addressing concerns over the original rigid framework.