Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration

Introduction

On April 1, 2025, the Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration (“Protocol”) was signed by the Directorate-General of Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities (“DGACCP”), the Asylum, Migration and Integration Agency (“AIMA”), the Immigration and Border Coordination Unit of the Internal Security System (“UCFE/SSI”), and the Institute of Employment and Professional Training (“IEFP”).

The Protocol aims to facilitate the process of hiring immigrants to respond to the labor shortage in various sectors by regulating the entry of foreign employees into the country while ensuring ethical recruitment practices. 

What does this immigration “Fast Track” consist of?

It is an expedited procedure for analyzing and deciding on visa applications for foreign citizens to work in Portugal and on fishing vessels operating under the Portuguese flag or chartered by Portuguese nationals, and in strict compliance with the applicable legal framework.

Who can join?

What obligations are imposed on companies?

Companies joining the Protocol must comply with the obligations established in the Protocol, especially the commitment to ethical recruitment, which includes:

• Guaranteeing a valid labor contract (whether fixed-term or permanent);
• Providing opportunities for professional training and learning the Portuguese language, in Portugal or the country of origin; and
• Ensuring access to adequate housing. 

How does the “Fast Track” work for hiring immigrants?

Companies collect all the required documentation about the foreign employee and email the individual (or group) request for an appointment to submit the visa application to the DGACCP.  The DGACCP will forward this documentation to the corresponding consular post within 2 (two) working days. The consular post will then schedule the applicants’ appointment to present their original documentation. It will then examine and process the individual visa applications. Once the AIMA’s and UCFE’s opinions have been received, the decision must be taken within 20 days of the appointment at the consular post.

Summary of the steps in the procedure:

What are the consequences of not complying with the obligations established in the Protocol?

If AIMA detects breaches of the obligations or commitments undertaken, it will inform all the parties within 5 (five) working days of the immediate suspension and, potentially, the exclusion of that business entity’s participation in the Protocol.

When does it come into force?

For companies signing the Protocol, the “Fast Track” can be activated from April 15, 2025.

For other entities, the Protocol will enter into force when their membership is validated.

Conclusion

The Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration is a significant opportunity for Portuguese companies facing challenges in hiring labor. This Protocol not only facilitates the process of obtaining visas for foreign employees, but also ensures ethical recruitment practices and the proper integration of employees into the Portuguese labour market.