The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the resolution of the armed conflict in Ukraine has raised numerous questions regarding the continuation of the temporary protection regime in Portugal and the available residency alternatives for displaced persons.
In this context, it is important to examine recent legislative developments and the options available to those currently under this international protection scheme.
The Temporary Protection
On 1 March 2022, Portugal responded swiftly to the humanitarian crisis resulting from the invasion of Ukraine by activating the temporary protection mechanism established under Law No. 67/2003, of 23 August, through Council of Ministers Resolution No. 29-A/2022, of 1 March.
As we explain in this article, this regime was further extended by Council of Ministers Resolution No. 29-D/2022, of 11 March, in alignment with the European Union Council's implementing decision.
Since then, temporary protection has been subject to successive extensions, as follows:
Until 31 December 2024, through Council of Ministers Resolution No. 29/2024, of 29 February.
Until 1 March 2025, by Council of Ministers Resolution No. 178/2024, of 5 December.
Recent Legislative Developments
On 26 February 2025, Law No. 20-A/2025 was published in the Diário da República, introducing amendments to the legal framework governing temporary protection. The primary objective of this legislative revision was to extend the maximum duration of protection for displaced persons from third countries who are unable to return to their country of origin in the short term.
As a result, temporary protection is no longer restricted to a maximum period of three years and may now be extended beyond this limit whenever the circumstances justifying its granting persist.
Following this amendment, the temporary protection certificates issued to displaced Ukrainian nationals have been extended until 4 March 2026.
Continuity of Residence in Portugal
With these latest legislative changes, holders of temporary protection continue to benefit from valid certificates until 4 March 2026, ensuring their legal stay in Portugal at least until the beginning of next year.
However, practical difficulties have been encountered with this certificate, particularly concerning certain civil acts, leading many beneficiaries to seek alternatives that provide a formal residence permit in card format.
For those wishing to transition to another residence regime, several options are available (see this article for further alternatives) under the Immigration Law, which exempt applicants from requiring a prior visa and allow them to apply for a residence permit directly in Portugal:
For investment activities;
For highly qualified employment;
For cultural activities;
For teaching professionals;
For researchers;
For higher education students;
For secondary school students;
For individuals admitted to qualification courses at levels 4 or 5 of the National Qualifications Framework, or to vocational training courses;
For interns;
For family reunification (for those with family members residing in Portugal).
Final Considerations
The temporary protection regime remains an essential mechanism in ensuring the safety and stability of displaced persons from Ukraine residing in Portugal.
However, recent legislative amendments have broadened the avenues for legal residence in the country, enabling beneficiaries to explore alternative pathways to regularise their migration status. For those seeking to establish a more permanent residence in Portugal, there are options available that can be applied for within the national territory, offering greater legal security and social integration.
Given the dynamic nature of migration legislation, the Immigration and Human Rights team at FiO Legal stands ready to support clients in selecting the most suitable strategy to maintain legal and regular residence in Portugal.
By Emellin de Oliveira and Victória Costa.
