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Portugal Simplifies Student Visas in 2022 Immigration Reform
Law 18/2022 simplified student visa pathways by removing SEF prior opinion requirements and clarifying transfers between academic programmes and work-based permits.
On 25 August 2022, Law no. 18/2022 was published, bringing major reforms to Portugal’s immigration system. Beyond the more publicised creation of the job-seeker and digital nomad visas, the law also simplified pathways for international students.
The reform removed the requirement for SEF’s prior opinion for most study-related visas and introduced greater clarity for students transferring between academic programmes or shifting from student status to work-based residence permits.
For international students from the US, UK, Brazil, Canada and Israel, these changes reduce administrative friction and make Portugal a more attractive destination for higher education. Universities in Lisbon, Porto, Braga and Coimbra have seen rising international enrolment in part due to this improved visa environment.
Additionally, the reform clarifies rights for family reunification and part-time student employment, giving students greater flexibility.
Official source: Diário da República, Law no. 18/2022, 25 August 2022 (https://dre.pt)