Human Rights Measure

According to Order 3863-B/2020, “foreign citizens” with pending cases before the Portuguese Immigration and Border Services (SEF) seeking protection and status as asylum seekers, refugees, or those seeking “subsidiary protection” were to be granted a “stay” in Portugal and the regularization of their status. Further, those individuals protected by this order could use valid documentation demonstrating their “pending proceedings at the SEF” in order to secure “access to the National Health Service or other health care rights, access to social support benefits, conclusion of lease agreements, conclusion of work, opening bank accounts and contracting essential public services.” This order was subsequently extended by Order 12870-C/2021 issued on December 31, 2021; the period of extension is “throughout the period of consideration and processing of the cases.”