Portugal to expand temporary housing for immigrants facing deportation

Portugal plans to significantly expand its temporary accommodation capacity for foreign nationals undergoing deportation, return, or asylum processes. The Public Security Police (PSP) currently manages 130 spots, but aims to increase this number to 306 by the second half of 2027.

This expansion follows the implementation of Law No. 62/2026, which updated regulations regarding immigration, return, and international protection. The new law extends the period during which foreign citizens may remain in temporary installation centers while awaiting removal measures.

João Ribeiro, deputy national director of the PSP and head of the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders (UNEF), stated that the institution is urgently seeking solutions to increase available spaces, particularly in Lisbon and Porto. Current facilities are distributed across Porto, Santo António, and airport centers in Lisbon and Porto, while the Faro airport facility is temporarily closed for renovations.