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Brazilian Illegal Immigrants in Portugal Could Be Deported Starting This Thursday. Decision Involves New Police Force Created by Portuguese Government and Concerns Thousands of Brazilians in Irregular Situation
Brazilian illegal immigrants in Portugal could be deported starting this Thursday (21), according to Estadão. The measure comes into effect with the implementation of the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders (Unef), known as the “Foreigners Police,” which will have the central function of overseeing stays and implementing measures to remove foreigners in irregular situations.
The impact is direct for the Brazilian community, currently the largest foreign group residing in Portugal. More than half a million Brazilians live in the country, and many face difficulties with delays in the issuance of residence documents. According to immigration experts, the new policy may amplify the feeling of insecurity among those still awaiting regularization.
What Changes With the New Foreigners Police
Starting this Thursday, 1,200 police officers will be operating at airports and major borders. According to legislation, the Unef will be able to carry out deportations, readmissions, and voluntary returns, prioritizing those in Portuguese territory without a visa or residence permit.
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Although the law is general and applies to all foreigners, the Brazilian community is the most affected due to its size. The number of Brazilians in Portugal increased from 111,000 in 2018 to 513,000 in 2023, according to official data.
Why Brazilian Illegal Immigrants in Portugal Could Be Deported
The tightening of immigration policy is part of an “anti-immigration package” approved in July by the Portuguese Parliament. Among the measures is the creation of the Unef, as well as stricter rules for work visas and family reunification.
Some of these measures were deemed unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court, but the deportation of illegal immigrants remains in effect. Immigration lawyers argue that those who do not provide valid documentation are in a vulnerable situation and may be notified.
Who Can Be Immediately Affected
According to experts, foreigners awaiting regularization may also be approached by the new police. Even those who have already initiated residence processes may be asked to present documents proving their application.
Lawyer Tabatha Walazak emphasizes that without formal residence authorization, immigrants risk receiving a deportation order. Lawyer Magalhães Neto advises that foreigners carry proof of administrative or judicial processes to help avoid complications.
Is It Worth Staying Without Documentation?
For those in irregular situations, lawyers warn that there is no guarantee against deportation. The recommendation is to seek legal alternatives for regularization as soon as possible, whether through work visas, study, or family reunification.
However, the situation in Portugal remains uncertain. While some measures are still to be re-evaluated in Parliament, the new Foreigners Police has already begun operations and is expected to increase inspections at airports and cities.
Brazilian illegal immigrants in Portugal could be deported in one of the most significant recent changes to the country’s immigration policy. For many, fear is growing due to the slow visa system and the arrival of the new police force.
Do you think this measure will bring more security or just punish those who seek a better life? If you live in Portugal or know someone in this situation, please share your opinion in the comments — we want to hear your experience.
