Individuals who have been victims of human trafficking in Portugal will now have facilitated access to Portuguese language classes and the national healthcare service, according to a plan that comes into effect in 2025. 

According to the country's Minister of Youth and Modernisation the plan will guarantee language class access, ensuring that victims of trafficking are able to learn the language of their host country.

In addition, all victims of trafficking will be given a national health user number immediately on arrival in Portugal, even if they have not yet secured all relevant legal documentation for residence in the country. This has been one of the key demands of associations and services working in the field, who highlight the fact that many such victims have a great and immediate need for access to healthcare.

The plan also includes the creation of a legal framework applicable to the protection and assistance of people who are victims of trafficking, which will allow for more integrated intervention between security forces, specialised multidisciplinary teams and reception facilities.