Portugal has recently launched the Integrar Program, an initiative designed to assist foreigners in finding job opportunities and receiving professional training. This program aims to enhance the integration of migrants into the Portuguese workforce, addressing the growing need for skilled labor in the country.
Overview of the Integrar Program
The Integrar Program is coordinated by the Institute of Employment and Professional Training (IEFP) and focuses on providing support to various groups of foreigners, including the unemployed individual, first-time job seeker and workers looking to change careers or obtain new training
This initiative comes at a crucial time as Portugal’s migration policy has seen a 24% reduction in work visa grants in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Objectives of the Program
The primary goals of the Integrar Program include:
- Facilitating social and professional inclusion of migrants
- Reducing cultural barriers to employment
- Promoting training and skill development
Services Offered
The program provides a range of services to assist participants, including:
- Professional Training: Courses designed to qualify and requalify participants for the job market.
- Recognition of Skills and Diplomas: Support for validating academic certifications and professional experiences obtained abroad.
- Job Search Support: Active assistance in navigating the Portuguese job market.
Steps to Participate
The Integrar Program is structured in several stages:
- Initial Assessment: Participants undergo an individual interview to analyze their professional history, needs, and expectations.
- Personalized Employment and Training Plan: Based on the assessment, an individualized plan is created, which may include training courses and job search support.
- Recognition of Qualifications: Assistance in recognizing and validating diplomas, along with guidance on obtaining academic and professional equivalencies.
Importance of the Program
The launch of the Integrar Program highlights Portugal’s need to attract qualified workers from abroad, particularly in light of demographic challenges such as an aging population and labor shortages in key sectors. This initiative is especially beneficial for Brazilian migrants, who represent a significant portion of the foreign population in Portugal.
Growth of Non-European Immigration
In recent years, Portugal has seen a notable increase in non-European immigration, particularly from Brazil. Reports indicate that the number of migrants from outside Europe has nearly doubled in the last five years. Currently, over one million foreigners reside in Portugal, with Brazilians making up 35.3% of this population, totaling approximately 363,449 individuals with regularized residence permits.
As Portugal faces a decline in overall migration in 2024, the growth of non-European foreigners underscores the importance of programs like Integrar, which aim to ensure better integration of migrants into the Portuguese economy. This initiative not only supports the individuals involved but also contributes to the overall economic health of the country.
