The diploma will “alter the regulation of the legal regime of entry, permanence, exit and expulsion of foreign citizens in Portugal,” the statement reads

In June last year the Portuguese government approved simplification rules for visa applications for permanence or residence authorisation in the country, scrapping the need for interviews at consulates whenever possible and making higher education institutions responsible for students.

At the time, the minister of internal affairs, Eduardo Cabrita, explained that the procedures for visa applications would require a digital presentation instead of a face-to-face interview.

To regulate the situation of foreigners who enter Portugal legally but without a residence permit to work here, a mechanism is being created to help integrate them in Portuguese society and get a work contract.