Best Immigration Lawyer
It is with renewed enthusiasm that we announce that our founding partner, Diogo Capela, has once again been distinguished by Uglobal Immigration as one of the world’s best immigration attorney. His inclusion in the prestigious “2025 Top 25 Global Migration Attorneys” list marks his 5th consecutive recognition, consolidating his position as an international reference in assisting investors and families who choose Portugal as their place to live.
Uglobal’s distinction highlights professionals who demonstrate exceptional innovation and leadership in an ever‑evolving sector. For the team at Lamares, Capela & Associados, this award validates our continued commitment to technical excellence in critical areas such as Immigration Law, residence visas and foreign investment.
Portugal: A New Milestone of 1.5 Million Immigrants
This recognition comes at a time of unprecedented transformation in the country. In 2025, Portugal surpassed the historic mark of 1.5 million resident immigrants, a significant increase compared to the previous milestone of one million foreign nationals, which already represented around 10% of the population.
This growing demand reinforces the need for highly specialised legal guidance, particularly during a period marked by profound legislative changes aimed at greater control and selectivity of migration flows.
The Challenge of the New Immigration Law
The year 2025 brought structural changes with the enactment of the new Immigration Law in October. The new legal framework introduced stricter rules, making expert legal guidance essential to navigate the system:
- Family Reunification Restrictions: As a general rule, 2 years of legal residence are now required before applying for family reunification, although there are crucial exceptions for Golden Visa holders, highly qualified professionals and families with minor children.
- New Rules for CPLP: The possibility of in‑country regularisation for CPLP citizens entering as tourists has ended. Applicants must now obtain the appropriate visa in their country of origin.
- Limited Job‑Seeker Visas: The job‑seeker visa is now restricted to highly qualified professionals.
- New Deadlines and Requirements: The new law sets a maximum deadline of 90 days for AIMA to decide on family reunification applications. Applicants also gain the right to judicially challenge unjustified delays.
Commitment to the Future
In a context where legal certainty is more valued than ever, Diogo Capela’s recognition among the world’s top 25 immigration attorneys reinforces our ability to deliver strategic solutions. We will continue to help our clients achieve their goals, ensuring that every investor, entrepreneur and family receives a personalised and efficient service in the face of new immigration law challenges.
We would like to thank all our clients and partners for their trust and support, as a fundamental part of this success. We remain committed to the highest standards of excellence and to contributing to an increasingly welcoming and global Portugal.
Contact us for specialised support with your immigration process and count on the experience of a firm that is a global reference in the field.