Pioneering Immigration Solutions

An article written by Rui Passos, Immigration Lawyer and Managing Partner at ERG Legal for the IM Yearbook 2025.

2023 was a transformative year for ERG Legal. Under the leadership of Rui Passos, the team contributed significantly to shaping Portugal’s immigration landscape.

ERG Legal has been recognised as a reliable force in the immigration sector. What were some of your key contributions in 2023?

A major highlight was our involvement in the legislative reforms for the Portuguese Golden Visa programme. We provided key insights during the drafting process, ensuring the new regulations promoted sustainable investment while maintaining Portugal’s appeal to international investors.

Additionally, we expanded our services to address emerging challenges in family regroupment, company incorporation, and alternative visa pathways, ensuring our clients received tailored solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Our work was not just about compliance but also about creating pathways that aligned with clients’ aspirations while contributing to Portugal’s economic and social goals.

Immigration is a complex issue globally. What do you see as the most pressing challenges, and how is ERG Legal addressing them?

Immigration today is shaped by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and climate-related displacement. One of the biggest challenges is creating policies that balance national interests with the rights and needs of immigrants. Portugal has made strides in this regard, but there is room for improvement, especially in integrating immigrants into local communities and addressing the barriers they face in accessing housing, healthcare, and employment.

We focus on bridging these gaps. For example, we have introduced initiatives to help immigrants navigate daily life challenges, such as securing health insurance and understanding their rights under Portuguese law. We also advocate for policy reforms, such as streamlining visa application processes and enhancing support systems for immigrants.

What does the future hold for ERG Legal and Portugal’s immigration sector?

For ERG Legal, the future is about growth and continued excellence. We aim to solidify our position as a national leader in immigration law while expanding our reach internationally. This includes enhancing our digital services to make the immigration process more accessible and efficient for clients worldwide.

For Portugal, immigration will remain a key driver of economic and social development. However, it will require bold policy initiatives and a collaborative approach involving the government, private sector, and civil society. ERG Legal is committed to being an active participant in this dialogue, ensuring that Portugal remains a destination of choice for those seeking a new beginning.

Any final thoughts on the role of immigration in today’s world?

At ERG Legal, we see every case as a chance to make a positive impact not just for our clients but also for Portugal as a whole. As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are excited to continue shaping the future of immigration with innovative solutions and unwavering dedication.