Constitutional Court unanimously approves return and asylum law

The Constitutional Court (TC) has unanimously declared that the return law, which enables the deportation of illegal immigrants, is in accordance with the Constitution. The decision was made by seven of the court's thirteen judges.

This ruling came after a preventive review request was submitted by the President of the Republic at the beginning of the month. The TC decided not to declare the law unconstitutional, which also addresses the granting of asylum and the detention of foreigners.

The return law had been approved by the Assembly of the Republic, and its review by the Constitutional Court was anticipated. The approval includes, among other aspects, measures related to immigration and the treatment of immigrants.

The Social Democratic Party (PSD) expressed optimism regarding the promulgation of the law by President António José Seguro, while the Socialist Party (PS) stated that it respects the TC's decision. The LIVRE party noted the possibility of a presidential veto, and the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) voiced concerns about potential constraints and injustices resulting from the law's implementation.

The TC's decision creates a new landscape in the debate over immigration in Portugal, reflecting the differing positions of political parties on the law's implications.