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FlashPortugalOctober 12, 2026

Portugal Abolishes On-Arrival Legalization and Simplified Study Visas with New Law No. 62/2026

PublishedEditorial policy

Effective September 10, 2026, Portugal's Law No. 62/2026 eliminates exceptional paths to obtaining a residence permit without a prior consular visa and ends simplified procedures for professional training. All applicants must now secure a visa before entering the country.

Portugal ImmigrationPortugal VisaResidence PermitStudy Visa PortugalLaw 62/2026

Key takeaways

  • A visa before entry is now mandatory. Exceptional paths to legalization without a consular visa have been completely abolished for all categories of foreigners.
  • For professional training, simplified visas are no longer valid. A standard visa, similar to those for work or residence permits, is now required.
  • If you plan to relocate or study in Portugal, begin your process at your country's consulate, rather than expecting to legalize your status after arrival.

Portugal's New Immigration Rules: Visa Before Entry Becomes Mandatory

Portugal's immigration landscape is undergoing significant changes with the implementation of Law No. 62/2026, which came into effect on September 10, 2026. This new legislation overhauls the rules governing entry, stay, and exit for foreigners, primarily by abolishing previous exceptional pathways.

A key amendment is the complete removal of options to obtain a residence permit (VNJ) without first securing a consular visa. Previously, individuals could enter Portugal and then legalize their status on the spot. Under the new law, this is no longer possible; a visa must be obtained at a Portuguese consulate or embassy abroad before entering the country. While agencies like AIMA and Finanças operate within Portugal, they are not involved in the initial visa issuance process.

Furthermore, simplified procedures for professional training visas have been discontinued. Where it was once possible to enter Portugal for courses under an eased scheme, all applicants for professional training must now apply for a standard visa, with no exceptions. This change impacts anyone planning to pursue studies or training in Portugal without prior visa arrangements.

In essence, Portugal is transitioning to a strict 'visa before entry, no exceptions' policy. Those planning relocation or study in Portugal must now initiate their process by obtaining a consular visa in their home country, rather than relying on post-arrival legalization.

Sources

Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.

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