This measure aims to speed up and simplify the process of hiring foreign workers, and is especially aimed at large companies.

In this guide, idealista has gathered all the answers to the main questions about the new programme.

What is the protocol for labour migration?

The “green lane for immigration” is a protocol whose main purpose is to simplify and accelerate the hiring of foreign citizens who already have an employment contract in Portugal. This agreement is signed between business associations and several public entities, such as:

- The Directorate-General for Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities (DGACCP);

- The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA);

- The Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP);

- The Borders and Foreigners Coordination Unit (UCFE/SSI).

Although the protocol came into effect at the beginning of April, it has no set duration. In other words, it can be suspended at any time by AIMA, for security reasons or if there is excessive pressure on public services. The decision was made by the Integration, Migration and Asylum Agency, after a joint analysis with the other entities involved.

It is important to emphasise that, even if the protocol is suspended, visas that have already been issued under this special regime remain valid.

How does the green lane for immigration work?

The immigration green lane process is completed in 5 steps.

  1. The employer must send an email to the Directorate-General for Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities (DGACCP) with all the necessary documentation to start the visa application;
  2. Within two days, the process is forwarded to the competent consular post, which schedules an appointment for candidates to submit the original documents;
  3. After delivery, the application is analyzed and the visa issuance process begins;
  4. In a subsequent phase, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) and the Borders and Foreigners Coordination Unit (UCFE) issue the necessary opinions for granting the visa;
  5. Finally, the consular posts make the final decision and communicate the outcome to the applicant.

This process is considered to be very bureaucratic, but it can only move forward if foreign workers are guaranteed a valid employment contract, access to adequate training in learning the Portuguese language and decent accommodation.

These three points are considered essential and mandatory, so that the commitment to ethical recruitment is respected.

What is the deadline for issuing visas under the green lane for immigration?

Visas must be issued within 20 days after the applicant is seen at the consular post, provided that all legal requirements are met, such as presentation of an employment contract, health and travel insurance, among other mandatory documents.

Can all companies use the green route?

Not all companies can benefit from the green lane for immigration. Adherence to this protocol is reserved for confederations, employers' associations and companies that meet strict criteria.