New Rules for CPLP Residency Requests Leave Brazilians in Limbo

Overview of the Situation

The Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA) has stirred controversy by removing a page from its portal that facilitated residency requests for citizens of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), specifically affecting Brazilians and Timorese. This change requires all CPLP citizens to present entry visas to apply for residency in Portugal.

Changes in Residency Application Process

Previously, there was a section on the AIMA's website that allowed those without entry visas to request documents. This was intended to be unlocked with the publication of a decree that altered the Law of Foreigners (23/2007), which was enacted recently by the President. Currently, AIMA has stated that only individuals with entry visas can apply for residency in Portugal, which has raised questions among immigration lawyers and experts.

Legal Controversy

Fábio Pimentel, a lawyer from CPPB Law, expressed concerns over the government's controversial stance, suggesting that this interpretation may lead to legal challenges for those who feel wronged. He highlighted that a law is already in effect allowing CPLP citizens without entry visas to apply for residency while in Portugal.

The New AIMA Page

On February 14, the AIMA page dedicated to CPLP citizens went offline, causing a stir among immigration specialists. A new page was launched later, stating that residency authorization would now follow a uniform model, requiring an appointment for biometric data collection and document submission at AIMA offices.

Implications for CPLP Citizens

The message on the new AIMA page indicated that obtaining a CPLP residency permit now necessitates a consular visa, which was unexpected. This has led to concerns about the government's intentions and whether this is a temporary measure until the new decree is better understood.

Government's Justification

During a press conference, António Leitão Amaro, the Minister of the Presidency, explained the necessity for the change in residency titles, citing potential fines from the European Union for non-compliance with residency authorization rules. He also mentioned that current CPLP citizens had been treated as second-class immigrants.

Future Outlook

Experts agree that the promised facilitation for Brazilians and Timorese in obtaining residency in Portugal may take time. The government appears to be cautious, with expectations that the CPLP channel for residency requests will only be regulated in the future. The message from the government is clear: Portugal will not keep its doors wide open for immigration.