The most recent assessment of the “green lane” for immigration in Portugal shows that, since its implementation in April 2025, 6,080 visa applications have been submitted, of which 4,042 have already been approved by the authorities.

Various nationalities

The initiative currently covers citizens of 32 nationalities, processed through 38 consular posts in 29 countries, as part of a government strategy to address labour shortages in critical sectors of the national economy.

Sectoral analysis of the data shows that agriculture is the main driver of this demand, accounting for 66% of total approvals. The construction sector follows, accounting for 23% of visas issued, while the remaining 11% are distributed across the trade, services, and industry sectors, which have seen increasing participation in recent months.

Companies benefiting

Currently, 142 companies already benefit from the Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labour Migration, a mechanism that allows both large groups and small and medium-sized enterprises to recruit workers more quickly and efficiently.

Quick process

One of the success indicators highlighted by the Ministry of the Presidency is the speed of the process: the average response time is now

21 days, significantly lower than the initial 30-day period stipulated.

This performance was supported by strengthening the consular network, including integrating about 50 visa experts under the Action Plan for Migration.

How to benefit?

To benefit from this priority channel, Portuguese companies must meet social responsibility criteria and ensure dignified conditions for foreign workers.

Among the contractual obligations are the guarantee of an accommodation plan, access to vocational training, and instruction in Portuguese, measures that the Government considers fundamental to ensuring a structured and sustainable integration of foreign workers in the country.