If you’ve been waiting months — or even years — for a response from Portuguese immigration authorities, you’re not alone. Thousands of foreign nationals find themselves trapped in legal uncertainty, with no clear answers in sight.

But what exactly is causing these delays? And more importantly: is there a way to avoid getting stuck in this frustrating system?

What’s Behind the Current Immigration Crisis?

Portugal has been undergoing a major restructuring of its immigration services. Since the dissolution of SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), responsibilities have been divided among new institutions. While these changes were meant to improve the system, they’ve had the opposite effect in the short term:

• • Administrative bottlenecks

• • Unanswered applications dating back to 2023 or earlier

• • Delays in issuing residence titles

• • No clear communication with applicants

Many applicants who submitted a Manifestação de Interesse (Expression of Interest) have received no updates for years. These cases remain unresolved — even if the applicant has a solid employment history, pays taxes, and contributes to Social Security.

The Safer and Faster Route: Apply for a Visa First

Amid all this uncertainty, there’s one path that still works smoothly and efficiently: obtaining a visa before entering Portugal.

Why is this option different?

• • Visa applications are processed through consulates abroad, not inside Portugal

• • Upon approval, you enter Portugal with a scheduled appointment for your residence card

• • The process is structured

• • Rejections are rare when the application is properly prepared

As a lawyer with experience in immigration law, I can confidently say:

Clients who apply for visas, rather than waiting inside Portugal for years, are getting results — and legal security — much faster.

Which Visa Could Work for You?
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for:

• • D7 Visa – Ideal for retirees or those with passive income

• • D2 Visa – For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners

• • Family Reunification Visa – To join a spouse, parent or child legally living in Portugal

• • Student or Tech Visa – For higher education or professionals in specific sectors

Each visa has different requirements — and success depends on how well your file is prepared.

Don’t Wait Another Year. Let’s Solve It Now.
Immigration in Portugal is complicated at the moment — but you don’t have to stay stuck in a system that’s not moving.

I offer tailored legal guidance for clients who want to regularize their status or move to Portugal with confidence.