"Many Brazilians face delays and other practical difficulties in obtaining their residence permits and the right to family reunification, for example, even if they have submitted their applications correctly and are up to date with their obligations," and "until they regularise their status, these people face obstacles to their effective integration in Portugal," Ambassador Raimundo Carreiro Silva stated in a written interview with Lusa.

In the interview, the diplomat compared the two countries' immigration laws and admitted that xenophobic rhetoric also resonates in Portugal.

"The Brazilian embassy and consulates-general have received information about cases of xenophobia and other types of discrimination against Brazilians," and the guidance given is that "these occurrences should be promptly reported to the competent Portuguese authorities, so that they can take appropriate legal action."

Furthermore, "we have reiterated our willingness to intensify joint actions with Portugal to promote racial equality and the fight against racism, xenophobia, and discrimination in all their forms," ​​he explained.

Anti-immigrant rhetoric

"Unfortunately, the growth of anti-immigrant rhetoric is a trend seen in Europe and other parts of the world," but the "Brazilian community in Portugal is, in general, well integrated," a situation contributed to by the "linguistic and cultural proximity" and the "intense social and family ties" between the two countries.

Portugal "has a significant diaspora, including in Brazil," the diplomat said, expressing his conviction that "a significant portion of Portuguese society is aware of the importance of ensuring the rights of their compatriots living abroad and promoting their effective integration," he added.

Regarding the impact of the more restrictive policy in Portugal and the impact on reciprocal relations between the two countries, Raimundo Carreiro Silva emphasised that there has been a "constructive dialogue with the Portuguese government," which included, "most recently," a "videoconference between authorities responsible for consular matters in both countries," and a meeting of the Bilateral Subcommittee on Consular Affairs and the Movement of Persons is scheduled for Lisbon later this month.

Raising awareness

"For my part, I am personally contacting Portuguese authorities here in Lisbon to raise their awareness of the Brazilian perspective, especially regarding the need to observe reciprocal treatment, based on the 1988 Brazilian Constitution and the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Consultation."

Regarding the discussion in the Portuguese Parliament of laws governing foreigners and nationality, with even more restrictive measures, the ambassador emphasized that this is "an internal matter and a matter under the sovereignty of the Portuguese government."

Asymmetries

However, he argued that some "aspects of the legislation under discussion increase the asymmetries between Brazilian and Portuguese legislation, especially regarding residence permits, family reunification, and the acquisition of nationality."

"In the case of obtaining residency, Portuguese citizens can initially enter Brazil as visitors, without the need for a visa for short stays, and, once in Brazil, apply for a residence permit with the Federal Police within 90 days," the diplomat explained.

Regarding family reunification, in Brazil, there is no "minimum residence period" to request this procedure, while "proposed changes to Portuguese legislation would result in waits potentially exceeding three years, which could lead to the prolonged separation of family members."

Regarding nationality, Brazil is also much more permissive in "naturalizing Portuguese citizens, requiring only one year of legal residence and good moral character to obtain Brazilian nationality."

In Portugal, a "minimum legal residence of five years" is currently required, and the proposed changes provide for an increase to seven years for Portuguese-speaking citizens.

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