Portugal has heeded the concerns of foreigners and is introducing a "transition" period for the closure of the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) program. This decision comes in response to a wave of discontent among foreigners who faced challenges in completing their documents on time, largely due to delays by the Portuguese government service handling foreign affairs, SEF.
The NHR Program Closure
Earlier this month, the Portuguese government announced its decision to terminate the NHR program for foreigners starting on January 1, 2024. This move generated dissatisfaction among individuals who were either unable to complete their applications in time or faced delays beyond their control.
Transition Period Details
The newly introduced transition period will specifically cater to applicants who were unable to meet the December 31, 2023 deadline due to SEF-related delays. This extension will affect pensioners and foreign workers from countries outside the European Union, as well as individuals from Brazil and Portuguese-speaking African countries.
Portugal's decision to implement a transition period for the NHR program closure serves as a welcome relief for foreigners who have been facing challenges in their application processes. This adjustment demonstrates the government's willingness to accommodate the needs of those affected by delays, ensuring a smoother transition.
