Strikes expected to cause delays in coming months

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Workers at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) began a series of strikes Monday, a development that could portend delays in immigration services.

What does the change mean? Employers should expect delays in visa and permit processing. Services that will be affected include visa and residence permit processing (including resident permit renewals and applications under the Golden Visa Program) and appointment scheduling.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other immigration services.
• Who is affected: Anyone seeking immigration services in Portugal.
• Impact on processing times:  Processing delays should be expected.
• Business impact: Employers may need to adjust schedules depending on how significant the delays are. 

 
Background: Workers have planned a number of strikes at various SEF locations over the next six months. Immigration services will be provided, but delays should be expected.

BAL Analysis: In some cases, urgent appointments can be made and processing can be expedited at an extra cost. Those with urgent requests should contact BAL.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Portugal. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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