We are pleased to share that our 华海伦 Helena Nazaré Valente and Lai Ieng Ng have authored an article on Lexology regarding the significant amendments to Portugal’s immigration laws, approved on July 16, 2025. These reforms represent a major shift in how Portugal manages entry, residency, and family reunification for foreign nationals.

The approved amendments to Law No. 23/2007 are expected to increase administrative burdens and litigation, with potential constitutional challenges pending presidential ratification.

Key legislative changes include:
-Stricter Entry and Residence Requirements
-Overhaul of the Family Reunification
-Changes to Judicial Review
-Revocation of the “Manifestation of Interest” Mechanism

Law still needs to be ratified by the President of the Republic who is likely to send it to the Constitutional Court.

As these changes unfold, we will keep an eye on their impact on both migrants and Portuguese society.

You can access the full article here (with registration at Lexology), or we may provide a full copy upon request.