Summary:
Agreement aims for visa approval in 20 days but lacks requirement for workers to stay in Portugal.
Employers seek tax exemptions on housing costs, but this is not included in the agreement.
The Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration will be signed on April 1st, despite political changes.
Companies are required to provide training and housing for foreign workers, but specifics are unclear.
State will oversee compliance and ensure obligations are met by employers.
Key Immigration Agreement Set for April 1st
The agreement between employer confederations and the Agency for Migration and Asylum (AIMA) aims to streamline the visa process, allowing for approval within 20 days. However, it notably lacks a clause that mandates foreign workers to remain in Portugal, despite some expectations from employers for such regulation.
Key Issues Left Unresolved
Among the unresolved issues is the regulation concerning housing for workers, where employers sought assurances that providing accommodation would not lead to increased tax liabilities. They proposed that housing costs be treated as a tax-exempt subsidy, a point that remains unaddressed in the agreement. Armindo Monteiro, president of the Confederation of Portuguese Industry (CIP), emphasized the necessity of this agreement for the functioning of various sectors, stressing the importance of creating conditions for both employment and living.
Future Regulations Needed
The obligation for workers to stay in Portugal has been raised, but with the current agreement allowing for free movement within the Schengen Area, this remains a regulatory concern for future governments. Monteiro advocates for a mechanism to prevent Portugal from becoming a "revolving door" for European labor migration.
Signing Amid Political Change
Despite fears that the negotiations might collapse following the fall of Luís Montenegro's government, the Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration is set to be signed on April 1st. This protocol includes various stakeholders, such as the Directorate-General for Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities, and outlines responsibilities for companies in providing work contracts, health insurance, and adequate housing for foreign workers.
Implementation Details
While the protocol mandates companies to facilitate professional training and Portuguese language learning for immigrants, specifics regarding housing arrangements remain vague. The rapid visa regime will be available to companies meeting certain criteria, including a minimum number of employees and business revenue.
Oversight and Compliance
AIMA will evaluate whether signatory companies can fulfill their commitments, with the state responsible for ensuring compliance through regular inspections and addressing complaints. This oversight is crucial to maintain the integrity of the immigration process and protect workers' rights.
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