Lisbon, 30 September 2025 — Portugal’s Parliament is holding a decisive debate on the new Foreigners’ Law, with final votes expected at the end of today’s session. The government is locked in negotiations with the Socialist Party (PS) and Chega, though officials insist that key far-right proposals are not on the table.
Negotiations and Political Balancing
Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stepped out of plenary to lead talks with both PS and Chega, as the government seeks a majority to pass the law. According to Diário de Notícias/DN Brasil, Chega’s controversial proposal to ban social benefits for immigrants with less than five years of residency “has not even been analyzed” and is excluded from the negotiations. Instead, discussions with PS focus on family reunification rules and work-seeker visa procedures.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, speaking earlier in Cascais, denied any formal deal with Chega. He stressed that “parties with greater representation must demonstrate their sense of responsibility” but rejected suggestions of concessions on social support.
Diverging Voices Across the Aisle
Inside Parliament, the atmosphere remains tense. Chega MPs, led by Rita Matias, signaled support for the law while doubling down on anti-immigrant rhetoric, framing the reform as a victory for “Portuguese families.” Meanwhile, the Communist Party (PCP) strongly criticized the new draft, calling restrictions on family reunification an “attack on immigrants.”
From the opposite flank, the Liberal Initiative (IL) announced it would back the government’s proposal. Leader Rui Rocha argued that “multiculturalism didn’t work” and criticized both PS and past migration policies, though his remarks included dismissive generalizations about immigrant communities.
Livre MP Paulo Muacho accused the government of compromising with the far-right to secure passage: “He says no means no, but he made a deal with the far-right,” he said, pointing to contradictions in Luís Montenegro’s assurances.
What’s at Stake
The debate over the Foreigners’ Law touches directly on the lives of immigrant families, from timelines for reunification to access to work and residence rights. While some proposals aim to introduce flexibility, critics warn of ongoing obstacles that risk separating families or undermining integration.
The final vote is scheduled for the end of today’s session, after two other bills are discussed. For many immigrant communities in Portugal, the outcome could redefine the terms of belonging and stability in the years ahead.