Immigration
Ombudsman alerts PSP: irregular stay is not a crime
The Ombudsman has issued a recommendation to the Public Security Police (PSP) clarifying that the irregular stay of foreign nationals in Portugal does not constitute a criminal offense. The office advises the police force to ensure that its officers are properly informed of this legal distinction in their enforcement actions.
Why it mattersIf you are a foreign resident, this clarification by the Ombudsman highlights your legal rights regarding status enforcement, as police officers are being formally reminded that an irregular residency status alone is not a criminal matter.
