The new visa expediting mechanism in Portugal, implemented in April 2025, has successfully processed a total of 6,080 visa applications, resulting in 4,042 approvals. This initiative is part of the government's strategy to tackle labor shortages in critical sectors of the national economy.
Currently, the program covers citizens from 32 different nationalities and operates through 38 consular posts located in 29 countries. The agriculture sector has emerged as the primary beneficiary, accounting for 66% of the total visa approvals. Following agriculture, the construction sector represents 23% of the approvals, while the remaining 11% are distributed among trade, services, and industry sectors, which have seen increased participation recently.
As of now, 142 companies are benefiting from the Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labour Migration, which facilitates the recruitment of workers for both large enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses. The Ministry of the Presidency has highlighted the average response time for visa applications as a key success indicator, now reduced to 21 days from the initial 30-day period.
This improvement in processing times is attributed to the strengthening of the consular network, including the integration of approximately 50 visa experts under the Action Plan for Migration. To utilize this priority channel, Portuguese companies must adhere to social responsibility criteria and provide dignified working conditions for foreign employees. This includes ensuring accommodation plans, access to vocational training, and instruction in Portuguese, which the government deems essential for the structured and sustainable integration of foreign workers.