Different rules for different consulates, nightmares obtaining Numero de Utente, exchanging Drivers License (IMT probably the worst), Finanças and SEF probably the best and still challenging at times. Whatever the rules are, publish them in a straightforward, checklist type manner and get all the Governmental Agencies some customer service training. Answer all emails within 3 business days, answer your phone, simple things will go a long way.
Terry Follmer,
Beiras, By email
EDITOR, With the high cost of living in Portugal nowadays (see the rent prices in Lisbon), the high income tax and the low salaries, life might turn out miserable for many new migrants and force them to rethink their decision and move to another country with better living conditions (such as Germany) or back to their home country.
David, Lisbon, By email
What possible incentive is there for the government to streamline the immigration process when they're profiting from kickbacks from "relocation agencies" we're obligated to use out of desperation.
By Xavier from Other on 11 Oct 2021, 19:11
First fix the Sky high rents, minimum salary is 665 and rents are 800....
By Nitin Kapoor from Lisbon on 11 Oct 2021, 23:43
Portugal doesn't need immigrants, what Portugal needs is to have a functioning society where the locals have enough babies, instead of having to import foreigners.
By Rob from USA on 12 Oct 2021, 01:05
In exclusive reports (1) the Guardian tells us that many immigrants from Afghanistan have applied to the British government for repatriation due to the harsh living conditions offered to them (2) O Público recounts the experience of nurses and other essential workers who were given notice to quit their accommodation in June because rapacious owners could could triple their rental income in the AirBnB dominated Summer tourist market. Hardworking Portuguese citizens are being exploited by a capitalist society which places greed above social necessity. Genuine immigrants bringing skills and not tainted Golden Visa money are being exploited in the same way. Rent control and security of tenure must be introduced urgently as a short term necessity.
Roberto Cavaleiro de Tomar
By Cavaleiro R. from Other on 12 Oct 2021, 01:44
Useful migrants, not like the shower that sit around the squares in Lisbon.
By ian from Lisbon on 12 Oct 2021, 06:06
Build Portugal for the Portuguese
Not outsiders .
By J from Lisbon on 12 Oct 2021, 09:50
This is so disgraceful in so many ways! Portugal needs to provide decent housing which is accessible and affordable to citizens and not only those ugly, over bloated villas for wealthy foreigners; Portugal needs to create public spaces which are clean and safe and environmentally healthy for all - not only cement jungles with howling dogs. Portugal is only marketing an image to wealthy foreigners while degrading citizens lives on a daily basis. Shameful.
By K from Algarve on 12 Oct 2021, 10:09