Under Portugal's constitution, the law comes into force 30 days after its publication in the newspaper.

The most important changes in the law are the creation of a single document for all legal residents and of a strategy for fighting human trafficking and illegal immigration.

The new law foresees the use of a temporary visa for foreigners seeking work in Portugal, and gives resident status for academic researchers and qualified foreign staff.

It also raises the maximum fines for companies that hire illegal immigrants.

At the same time, the law protects all minors born in Portugal. All those who in kindergartens and primary or secondary schools are eligible for resident status.

However, immigrant groups in Portugal criticize the law, saying it disappoints thousands of people who had hoped for the regularization of their status.