Portugal’s New “Green Lane Visa” for Immigration (2024)
A Complete Guide for Employers and Workers
Portugal has launched a new fast-track immigration model called the “Green Lane”, designed to simplify and accelerate hiring foreign workers. This protocol came into force on April 1st, 2025, and aims to respond to the country’s growing labour needs, especially in strategic sectors, by giving eligible companies quicker access to international talent.
What is the Green Lane Protocol?
The Green Lane is a labour migration cooperation protocol signed between the Portuguese Government and key national institutions. It is intended to allow large companies and business associations to hire non-EU workers more efficiently, ethically, and transparently.
Partners involved include:
DGACCP – Directorate-General for Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities
AIMA – Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum
IEFP – Institute of Employment and Vocational Training
UCFE – Border and Foreigners Coordination Unit
The goal is clear: speed up the work visa process while ensuring protection for workers and responsibility from employers.
Who is Eligible to Use the Green Lane?
This protocol is not open to all companies. To qualify, employers must meet certain economic and legal requirements. Here’s a breakdown:
For Individual Companies:
- Minimum 150 employees.
- Annual turnover of €25 million or more.
- No outstanding debts to Social Security or the Tax Authority.
- Must hold a valid permanent certificate code.
For Business Associations or Confederations:
- Must represent at least 30 registered member companies.
- Have a combined annual turnover of €250 million or more.
Step-by-Step Process: How the Green Lane Works
Step 1 – Application Submission
The employer sends a formal request by email to DGACCP, attaching all necessary documents:
- Employment contracts
- Worker identification
- Proof of accommodation
- Language training commitments
Step 2 – Forwarding to Consular Services
The application is forwarded to the appropriate Portuguese consular post abroad within two working days.
Step 3 – Document Verification at Consulate
Candidates are called to attend the consulate, where they must present:
- Original employment contract
- Valid passport
- Travel and health insurance
- Criminal record certificate (if required)
Step 4 – Evaluation by AIMA and UCFE
AIMA and UCFE evaluate the application. These bodies provide legal and security opinions on the candidate.
Step 5 – Visa Decision
The consular office makes a final decision and notifies the applicant. If approved, the visa is issued within 20 calendar days (as long as all documents are in order).
What Happens If a Company Fails to Comply?
If a company does not meet its obligations, such as:
- Providing adequate housing,
- Ensuring the worker attends language training,
- Or other commitments listed in the application…
Then AIMA has five working days to suspend the company from the Green Lane. Depending on the severity of the violation, the suspension may become permanent.
Can Any Sector Use This Route?
The Green Lane is primarily intended for industries with a high demand for labour, such as:
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Hospitality
- Logistics and Transport
- Manufacturing
- IT and Engineering
Sample List of Eligible Companies (Indicative)
These types of companies may be eligible if they meet the financial and legal criteria:
| Company Name | Sector | Turnover (Approx.) |
| Mota-Engil | Construction | €3.2 Billion |
| Jerónimo Martins | Retail | €20 Billion |
| TAP Air Portugal | Aviation | €2.3 Billion |
| Sonae Group | Retail & Logistics | €7 Billion |
| Galp Energia | Energy | €15 Billion |
| The Navigator Company | Paper Industry | €1.6 Billion |
| Amorim Group | Cork Production | €1 Billion |
| EDP – Energias de Portugal | Energy | €15 Billion |
| Delta Cafés | Food & Beverage | €400 Million |
| Lusíadas Saúde | Healthcare | €500 Million |
Note: This is a reference list. Companies must apply and be approved to access the Green Lane.
Ethical Recruitment Is Key
Participation in this protocol requires:
- A valid work contract
- Decent housing (not shared in poor conditions)
- Access to Portuguese language training (A1/A2 level)
This ensures both the dignity of workers and the responsibility of employers.
Want to Apply as a Company?
You can start by preparing your internal documentation and sending your interest to: greenlane@dgaccp.pt (example email – confirm with the official source)
To begin the process, a foreign worker must have a signed employment contract from an eligible company.