Portugal's High Commission for Migration is now accepting funding applications for projects promoting a proactive policy of attracting third country nationals (TCNs). This funding opportunity is made available through the EU’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF). The total amount available is € 350 000. Applications cannot present a total eligible investment of less than € 50 000.00.

Successful projects will be expected to focus on:

• measures to attract TCNs that respond to the needs of the labour market and, with their talent, skills and entrepreneurial action, contribute to the creation of job opportunities, social innovation and research and development;

• information and communication activities in migrants' countries of origin, including 1) through digital media, 2) promoting regular migration, 3) providing information on job opportunities, entrepreneurship, study, research and sport in Portugal, and 4) promoting the prevention and combating of irregular migration and its harmful consequences, in terms of violence, exploitation and trafficking of human beings;

• Creation or improvement of information systems and channels in the country of origin with a view to facilitating future reception and integration of migrants and combating the various forms of exploitation and violence experienced by TCNs in Portuguese society;

• Creation of local networks that involve local authorities, business associations, NGOs, universities, and schools in carrying out the actions outlined in the previous paragraphs;

• Creation of multilingual digital tools that disseminate job opportunities, in doing so promoting the mobility of workers according to needs identified in key sectors of the economy;

• Support for measures that facilitate family reunification processes, including monitoring and counselling for migrants or beneficiaries of international protection; information regarding family reunification processes; awareness-raising activities and information on family reunification; information for family members to better reconnect, including orientation sessions before arriving in Portugal and cultural orientation activities, such as in the fields of gender equality, protection of children and positive parenting measures.

Further requirements

Approved projects may benefit from a maximum co-financing rate of 75%. The duration of the projects should not exceed 36 months. Candidate projects under this notice must begin no later than 15 September 2021.

The deadline for submission of applications has been extended to 15 June 2021.

Find further information on requirements and applications here.