Portugal launches AI Fast Track visa scheme to attract foreign specialists

The Portuguese government is preparing a protocol with technology ecosystem actors to create an accelerated visa pathway, dubbed “AI Fast Track”, for highly qualified foreign researchers and professionals in critical artificial‑intelligence fields. The measure, part of the National AI Agenda, is expected to be operational by the end of the year and will include a national platform that links AI talent with companies, startups and public bodies.

Ministers Gonçalo Matias (State Reform) and António Leitão Amaro (Presidency) are leading the effort, building on a previous fast‑track labour migration protocol that, between April 2025 and April 2026, processed 5,183 applications and recruited 3,328 workers for agriculture and construction within 20 days. The new scheme targets the high‑skill AI sector, with IAPMEI coordinating the platform alongside ARTE, AI2e and Startup Portugal.