global, Author at Global International Relocation

The new “Fast Track” for immigration in Portugal

Posted on October 15, 2025 by global

Immigration

The new “Fast Track” for immigration in Portugal

October 15, 2025

Portugal has taken an important step in strengthening its labor immigration policy with the creation of the Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration (PCMLR), also known as the “Fast Track” for immigration.
This new mechanism aims to simplify and accelerate the processes of hiring and legalizing foreign workers, while ensuring greater rigor and compliance in labor relations.

What is the PCMLR?

The PCMLR is a cooperation protocol signed between the Portuguese Government, namely the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), the Directorate-General for Consular Affairs and Portuguese Communities (DGACCP), the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP), and the Coordination Unit for Employment and Social Solidarity Policies (UCFE/SSI), and several business confederations.

The goal is to create a preferential and regulated channel for labor migration, allowing pre-qualified companies to hire third-country nationals more quickly and predictably, while maintaining high standards of legal and social compliance.

Who can join the program?

The protocol is aimed at companies with a proven structure and solidity, that meet strict criteria, including:

Having at least 150 employees and a significant turnover (above 25 million euros);
Being in good standing with the Tax Authority and Social Security;
Holding a valid and updated permanent certificate;
Ensuring formal employment contracts compliant with Portuguese law;
Providing decent housing conditions for foreign workers;
Promoting social and linguistic integration, namely through Portuguese language training.

Adhering to the PCMLR represents a commitment to social and legal responsibility, not merely an administrative fast track.

How does the process work?

The mechanism operates through closer coordination between participating companies and the public authorities involved.
The process consists of several simplified steps with defined deadlines:

Submission of the work visa application by the company, including all required documentation.
Consular appointment within a maximum of 10 working days after submission.
Visa decision within a maximum of 20 working days after the consular appointment.

Despite its benefits, the PCMLR also introduces new challenges for companies:

Intensive inspection: participating companies will be subject to compliance audits by the relevant authorities.
Housing and integration requirements: ensuring adequate housing and implementing social integration measures may be demanding, particularly in urban areas with limited availability.
Increased responsibility: the protocol requires companies to take an active role in ensuring the legality and well-being of the workers they hire.

In short, this is a preferential pathway, but one only accessible to companies capable of fully complying with legal and ethical standards.

The Cooperation Protocol for Regulated Labor Migration (PCMLR) is an ambitious and necessary measure to modernize Portugal’s labor immigration system. It represents a balance between agility and rigor, promoting a more orderly, transparent, and humane approach to migration.
For companies and professionals operating in the field of international mobility, understanding this new mechanism is essential. And for those seeking specialized support, partnering with an experienced team like Global International Relocation can make all the difference, ensuring a safe, efficient transition in full compliance with the new regulations.

Contact us today to learn how this protocol can help accelerate the integration of new employees into your company, ensuring safety, efficiency, and full support at every stage.

By Global International Relocation and Isabella Belmonte (GIR Relocation Consultant)

Orientation Visit: Why It Matters Before an International Move?

Posted on September 12, 2025 by global

Relocation

Orientation Visit: Why It Matters Before an International Move?

September 12, 2025

A relocation is much more than just packing and shipping.
Moving to another country involves more than choosing a house or transporting your belongings. The city you live in, the school your children attend, the services you rely on, and the rhythm of everyday life all have a direct impact on how well you and your family adapt.

That’s why an Orientation Visit is such a crucial step for families preparing for an international relocation. It allows for informed decision-making and helps anticipate challenges, reducing surprises upon arrival.

What is an Orientation Visit?

An Orientation Visit is a short, strategic trip to the destination country, taken before the final move. The goal is to gain a realistic understanding of what life will be like, visiting neighborhoods, exploring commute times, touring schools, and getting a feel for day-to-day life.

Unlike a tourist trip, this is a practical and purposeful visit, designed to evaluate whether the destination fits the needs and expectations of the individual or family.

What should an Orientation Visit include?

At Global, we tailor each visit to the client’s profile and priorities, but there are key aspects that should always be considered:

Residential areas – safety, accessibility, local commerce, green spaces, and surroundings
Education – visits to public, private, and international schools, including application processes and location
Transport – access to workplaces or schools, public transport options, road infrastructure
Services – proximity to hospitals, supermarkets, pharmacies, cultural venues, and leisure areas
Real cost of living – price of essential goods, average rental costs, taxes, and everyday expenses
Climate and urban feel – pace of life, public safety, and how the city functions day to day

Common mistakes during an Orientation Visit

A poorly planned visit can lead to decisions that negatively affect adaptation and quality of life. These are some of the most common pitfalls:

Choosing unrepresentative dates: Many people travel during school holidays, long weekends, or local festivities. These times can give a distorted view of the city, with quieter streets, closed services, or minimal traffic, which don’t reflect the usual rhythm of life.
Focusing only on specific areas: Tourist zones often look more organized, clean, and attractive but they rarely reflect everyday life. Prices tend to be higher, and the experience may lack authenticity or practicality, especially for families. On the other hand, focusing only on residential areas may cause you to overlook important aspects like access to commercial zones, cultural hubs, international schools, or transport networks.
A balanced approach is key: explore various types of neighborhoods and compare what each offers in terms of accessibility, services, lifestyle, and cost.
Ignoring the family’s perspective: Often, just one family member, typically the relocating employee, takes the trip. But successful adaptation depends on everyone. Feelings of safety, access to education, daily mobility, and social integration affect spouses and children in different ways. Include your family in the experience. Let them participate in visits, ask questions, and imagine their routine in the new environment.

How Global can help

At Global International Relocation, we offer fully customized Orientation Visits, tailored to each client’s needs and lifestyle.
We handle the entire process, from scheduling school and property visits to on-the-ground support by experienced local consultants. We also provide language support, logistical guidance, and a structured itinerary to make the most of your time.

At the end of each visit, we deliver clear and practical recommendations, aligned with both the realities of the destination and the client’s personal or corporate goals.

A successful relocation begins with an informed and confident decision. If you’re considering an international move, the best first step is a professionally planned Orientation Visit.
Contact us to learn how we can help turn uncertainty into clarity, with a plan that’s built around you.

Duties, Taxes, and the International Transport of Personal Belongings

Posted on May 28, 2025 by global

Moving

Duties, Taxes, and the International Transport of Personal Belongings

May 28, 2025

When you move to another country or send personal belongings abroad, international transport comes with several legal obligations, including customs duties and taxes.
These charges can significantly impact the total cost of shipping and, if not properly considered, may lead to unpleasant surprises.

What Are Customs Duties and Taxes?

Customs duties and taxes are charges applied by a country’s customs authorities on imported goods. Their main purpose is to protect the local economy, regulate international trade, and generate revenue for the government.

VAT vs GST

Depending on the country to which you’re shipping your belongings, you may come across different tax terms — the most common being VAT (Value Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax).

VAT is the tax applied in many European countries (including Portugal) and other regions worldwide.
When importing personal goods, VAT may be applied to the total declared value of the items.

GST is the equivalent of VAT in countries like Australia, New Zealand, India, Canada, and Singapore. It is also a consumption tax, but its application can vary depending on the country.

How Are These Charges Calculated?

The calculation of customs duties and taxes is based on several factors, including:

Declared Value of the Goods: Includes the amount stated on the commercial invoice, as well as transport and insurance costs.
Country of Origin: Where the goods were produced can influence the applicable rates.
Product Description and Use: Determines the correct tax classification.

Understanding customs duties and taxes is essential for a smooth experience. Make sure to provide accurate and complete documentation and be aware of the financial responsibilities involved.

Before arranging the international shipment of your personal belongings, it’s important to:

Check the tax requirements of your destination country.
Confirm whether VAT or GST exemptions apply.
Gather all the necessary documentation to qualify for these exemptions.

At Global, we support you every step of the way — from documentation to customs management — so your international move goes smoothly, with no surprises.
We carefully analyse each case, assess all possible customs exemptions, and guide you through the entire process, ensuring a clear and stress-free service.

Get in touch with our team!

The Starmuseum is now part of Global Fine Arts

Posted on March 11, 2025March 11, 2025 by global

The Starmuseum is now part of Global Fine Arts

March 11, 2025

Dear Partners, Clients, and Friends,

We are thrilled to announce that Starmuseum is now part of Global Fine Arts, a brand under Global International Relocation, the leading company in international mobility and a specialist in high-standard logistics.

This acquisition marks a strategic milestone, combining Starmuseum’s excellence with Biscayne Relocations (Global Internacional Relocation)’ extensive experience and solid reputation, built over 15 years with a highly skilled team. With this union, we not only ensure the continuity of all services but also strengthen our operational capacity, innovation, and global reach.

It is important to highlight that, with this acquisition, Biscayne Relocations (Global Internacional Relocation) has ensured a smooth and well-structured transition, integrating all assets previously held by Starmuseum, including its employees, facilities, and resources.

Through this integration, Starmuseum will gradually transition into Global Fine Arts, maintaining the same experienced team, technical precision, and the highest quality standards in handling, packing, transporting, and storing artworks.

For clients and partners, this transition signifies an even greater commitment to excellence and innovation in the Fine Art Logistics sector, offering a more robust, secure, and globally connected service.

The change will be implemented progressively, ensuring a transparent transition with no disruption to ongoing services. During this period, you can continue reaching out to us through the usual channels, with the addition of new contact methods under the Global Fine Arts brand.

For any questions or further information, our team is fully available at info@globalfinearts.pt.

We thank you for your trust and assure you that the future holds even more opportunities for our clients, partners, and friends!

Welcome to the new era of Global Fine Arts!

Customs Declaration for Personal Belongings: What You Need to Know?

Posted on January 28, 2025January 28, 2025 by global

Moving

Customs Declaration for Personal Belongings: What You Need to Know?

January 28, 2025

When moving to Portugal, one of the most important — and sometimes challenging — steps is the customs declaration for your personal belongings. This process, which involves the documentation and legalization of your items, may seem complex, but it is essential to ensure everything goes smoothly and legally, without unnecessary additional costs.

What is the Customs Declaration for Personal Belongings?

The customs declaration is the legal procedure required to regularize the belongings you intend to bring to Portugal when moving to the country. These items can include furniture, appliances, clothing, vehicles, and other personal property. When entering Portugal, personal belongings must be declared to the Tax and Customs Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira – AT).

When is the Customs Declaration Required?

A customs declaration is mandatory whenever someone moves to Portugal and brings personal belongings, especially for citizens who:

Are moving to Portugal permanently.
Are bringing personal belongings from outside the European Union (EU).

What Documents Are Needed to Declare Personal Belongings?

To complete the customs declaration for your personal belongings, you will need a few essential documents, such as:

Passport or Citizen Card: A valid identification document.
Proof of Residence: Issued by the local council in Portugal, indicating your start date of residence in the country.
Personal Belongings Declaration (or Baggage Certificate): A detailed list of the belongings being declared, proving they have been used in your country of origin for a minimum of 6 months.
Proof of Residence in the Country of Origin: A declaration from the Embassy/Consulate of your country of origin, confirming that you have lived there for more than 12 consecutive months.

What Are the Possible Exemptions?

In some situations, you may be exempt from paying taxes on the importation of your personal belongings. Exemptions can be granted if:

You have lived abroad for more than 12 months and are bringing used (not new) items to Portugal.
The imported items are for personal use and are not intended for resale.

If you meet the exemption criteria, you can avoid paying fees such as VAT and customs duties, making your move to Portugal easier and more cost-effective.

The customs declaration for personal belongings is an essential process for anyone moving to Portugal. While the procedure may seem complex at first, it is vital to avoid issues with tax authorities and, in some cases, crucial to prevent unnecessary costs.

If you still have doubts about the documents to submit, the exemption process, or how to proceed efficiently, Global International Relocation can help! With over 16 years of experience and expertise in customs procedures, we can ensure that your move to Portugal is quick and hassle-free.

Contact us to learn more about how we can assist with importing your belongings and check if you’re eligible for VAT and customs duty exemptions. Avoid setbacks and take advantage of our support so you can start your new life in Portugal with peace of mind!

Ports Closed Due to Strike

Posted on October 2, 2024 by global

Moving

Ports Closed Due to Strike

October 2, 2024

On October 1st, a strike began, resulting in the temporary closure of U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, affecting container movement, import and export processes, and significantly impacting our operations. The ongoing strike is affecting key ports along the U.S. East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico, causing significant disruptions and impacting major ports, including:

Port of New York and New Jersey
Port of Baltimore
Port of Savannah
Port of Charleston
Port of Houston
Port of New Orleans
Port of Mobile
Port of Tampa Bay

For our customers, this situation may result in delays, as cargo processing and shipping schedules are being affected. While we are committed to minimizing the effects, the strike has caused cargo backlogs at many of these crucial ports. In addition to the ports listed above, there is a possibility that the effects of the strike will extend to other ports, as the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) represents employers at 36 ports across the U.S. and the Gulf of Mexico, further exacerbating delays and logistical challenges. Consequently, there may also be an increase in logistics costs due to extended storage times, rerouting of vessels, and longer wait times.

This is the first major port strike in the U.S. in nearly 50 years. Joe Biden has the authority to suspend the strike for 80 days to allow for new negotiations, but according to the White House, the President does not intend to take action at this time.

At Global International Relocation, “…we are closely monitoring the ongoing strike and its impact on our operations. While this situation is obviously beyond our control, please know that our team is doing everything possible to mitigate delays and ensure your goods reach their destination safely. We remain committed to providing timely updates and support throughout this period, keeping you informed every step of the way.”

We appreciate your understanding and assure you that our team is fully at your disposal. If you currently have a service with us, please contact your Move Coordinator for any questions or further assistance.

Top Score on FAIM Credit Risk Barometer

Posted on September 3, 2024September 3, 2024 by global

Company

Top Score on FAIM Credit Risk Barometer

September 3, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Global International Relocation has achieved the highest score on the FAIM Credit Risk Barometer, following a rigorous financial assessment conducted by Ernst & Young (EY). This achievement is a testament to our company’s financial strength, stability, and commitment to excellence in the international relocation industry.

Understanding the FAIM Financial Assessment

The FAIM Financial Assessment was introduced in 2022 as an integral part of the FAIM Quality Standard. This assessment was implemented to ensure that FAIM-certified movers like us are not only operationally sound but also in good financial health. The FAIM standard is a globally recognized benchmark in the moving industry, and incorporating financial criteria further strengthens the trust and credibility of FAIM-certified companies.

Ernst & Young, a globally auditing firm, is responsible for conducting this financial assessment. The assessment focuses on three critical financial ratios:

Solvency: This measures our ability to meet long-term financial obligations. It is assessed by the Debt/Equity Ratio, where a higher ratio indicates greater financial risk.
Liquidity: This evaluates our capacity to handle short-term financial obligations, using the Operating Cash Flow Ratio as the primary indicator.
Profitability: This determines our ability to generate earnings relative to our costs, measured by the Operating Profit Ratio.

These ratios are combined into a single value through the EY Credit Risk Barometer (CRB), which then classifies the credit risk of the company on a scale from 0% to 100%.

What Our Top FAIM Credit Risk Score Means

Global International Relocation’s top score on the FAIM Credit Risk Barometer signifies that we are classified as “Low Credit Risk.” This is the best possible outcome and reflects our strong financial standing. A “Low Credit Risk” classification means that we are fully compliant with the FAIM financial standards, demonstrating our ability to manage both long-term and short-term financial obligations effectively.

This high score is not just an internal achievement; it serves as a reassurance to our clients, partners, and agents that we operate with financial integrity and reliability. In an industry where trust is paramount, our top score underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of our operations.

AIMA Strike: Potential Disruptions Ahead

Posted on August 21, 2024 by global

AIMA Strike: Potential Disruptions Ahead

August 21, 2024

The workers of the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) have announced a strike starting on August 22, 2024, primarily targeting overtime work, which will extend until the end of the year.

In a statement, the National Federation of Unions of Public and Social Workers (FNSTFPS) clarified that “this strike will last until the end of the year”, with the expectation that “it may be called off if AIMA takes the necessary steps to create the staff map with a sufficient number of workers to address pending requests and manage contacts with immigrants”.

The strike arises from deep-rooted concerns over inadequate staffing, overwhelming workloads, and frustrations with the ongoing transition from SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) to AIMA.

AIMA workers have long been raising alarms about the unsustainable conditions they face, with more than 400,000 pending cases creating significant delays. The issues have been exacerbated by a recruitment process that many describe as opaque, further stressing an already strained system.

What This Means for Services

This strike introduces significant uncertainty regarding how services will be managed during this period. While strikes often include agreements on minimum service levels to mitigate the impact, no clear plan has been confirmed for this particular strike.

This lack of clarity creates a situation where it is nearly impossible to predict which services will be available and when. In practical terms, this means that scheduled appointments for immigration-related services are at risk of being delayed, rescheduled, or outright canceled.

Global’s Commitment to Supporting Clients

At Global International Relocation, we fully understand the challenges that this strike may pose to our clients and partners.

Rossana Veglia, Chief Mobility Officer at Global, shares that “despite the uncertainties, we are committed to maintaining all scheduled appointments and ensuring that our clients continue to receive the support they need throughout this period”.

One of our key advantages “is the consistent presence of our legal team at AIMA. Our lawyers attend AIMA offices on a weekly basis, allowing us to gather first-hand information and stay up-to-date with any developments that could impact our clients. By being on the ground regularly, we are able to anticipate changes, identify potential workarounds, and adjust strategies accordingly. This ongoing interaction with AIMA staff and officials puts us in a strong position to navigate the challenges brought on by the strike and provide our clients with the most accurate and timely guidance available”.

“We recognize that with the strike in effect, scheduled services may be disrupted without prior notice, and the lack of clarity around which appointments will be rescheduled, delayed, or canceled make the process impractical. We strongly recommend that clients and partners prepare for possible delays and remain flexible. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way”.

Jorge Gomes, Chief Executive Officer of Global International Relocation, reiterates that “…we are committed to supporting our clients every step of the way, maintaining the continuous communication that defines us, to ensure regular updates to help manage the situation.”

New Immigration Rules in Portugal

Posted on June 5, 2024July 8, 2024 by global

Immigration

New Immigration Rules in Portugal

June 5, 2024

Following the announcement made on June 3, 2024, by the Portuguese Government, the new immigration rules in Portugal are now officially in effect.

These changes represent a significant revision of the legislation regulating immigration in the country, with the aim of promoting a more efficient migration policy aligned with the commitments made by Portugal and its European partners in the Schengen Area.

One of the most striking changes is the revocation of residence permit procedures based on manifestations of interest, which were introduced by a 2017 amendment to the law. The Government considered this possibility of regularizing immigrants without a consular visa as a “thoughtless” measure that compromised the principles of the Schengen Area.

This revocation may be followed by a possible parliamentary review of the law, with a transitional regime for pending applications, where those who applied before the new decree will be considered, or for cases where there are already work contracts and contributions to Social Security.

In addition, the decree-law now published includes a series of comprehensive measures to resolve pending issues and irregular situations, such as the creation of a “task force” to resolve the more than 400 thousand pending processes that migrated from the former SEF to the AIMA. The implementation of a national territory surveillance system to combat abuses and ensure compliance with immigration laws is also planned. As part of this announcement, issues related to the attraction of foreign talent were also addressed, with measures to improve the process of recognition of qualifications and competencies, promote the professional training of foreign citizens, among others.

Regarding human integration, measures will be implemented to increase vacancies in reception centers for asylum seekers and refugees, promote the professional integration of immigrants in the national labor market, and strengthen the teaching of Portuguese as a Non-Mother Tongue.

Institutional reorganization is also highlighted, with the creation of a Foreigners and Borders Unit in the PSP and the restructuring of the AIMA to reinforce operational capacity and immigrant assistance.

These changes reflect the Portuguese Government’s commitment to creating a more welcoming and efficient environment for immigrants while ensuring compliance with immigration laws and Portugal’s international commitments, obviously being a sensitive moment for those who have ongoing immigration bureaucratic processes.

If this is your case, this is a unique opportunity to turn to our Mobility Department to simplify the entire process.

Need support? Get in touch with Global!

Baggage Certificate: What it is and its importance

Posted on April 12, 2024 by global

Moving

Baggage Certificate: What it is and its importance

April 12, 2024

When it comes to moving internationally, especially when we want to take our belongings with us, there is some necessary and important documentation.

One of them is the Baggage Certificate. This document plays a fundamental role in facilitating the transportation of personal goods to Portugal without incurring unnecessary charges.

What is the Baggage Certificate?

The Baggage Certificate is a document issued by consular authorities that allows for the transportation of personal belongings across borders without paying import taxes or duties on these items. Essentially, this document is a way to prove that the items in question are not intended for commercial purposes.

What is the purpose of the Baggage Certificate?

This certificate serves as assurance for all parties involved in the moving process that the transported items are not being imported for sale or trade, but rather for personal and/or domestic use. It is a document that facilitates customs procedures, often without the need to pay taxes on personal belongings.

Where can the Baggage Certificate be requested?

Typically, the Baggage Certificate can be obtained at a Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of origin. Generally, it is necessary to fill out a form provided by these authorities and present a detailed list of the items you intend to transport. It is important to remember that the requirements and procedures for obtaining the certificate may vary according to the country and its specific regulations.

How can the Baggage Certificate help obtain fee exemption?

By presenting the Baggage Certificate during the customs process, expatriates may qualify for exemption from import taxes on their personal belongings. This means they will not need to pay taxes on items they bring with them for personal use.

In summary, the Baggage Certificate is a very important document for expatriates who wish to transport their personal belongings without incurring additional fees, potentially saving them time and money.

It is often in the details that the power to completely change the outcome of your moving process lies, and the Baggage Certificate is just one example of that. In such a complex process as international moving, where each step can mean significant differences, it is essential to rely on a specialized team to guide and simplify each stage.

Our team understands the importance of these details and is prepared to handle the complexity of international transportation. By trusting in our specialized team, clients can be assured that their goods will be transported efficiently and in compliance with regulations. Ultimately, it is our attention to detail that allows us to make a difference, making the international moving process a smoother experience.

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