Hiring an immigration lawyer is not just another bureaucratic step—it's a strategic decision that directly influences the success of your life project in another country. After all, immigration involves complex laws, strict deadlines, specific documents, and often sudden legislative changes. Having a qualified and up-to-date professional by your side can prevent delays, unnecessary expenses, and frustrations.

With high demand for visas and constantly changing immigration rules, choosing the right lawyer is more important than ever. Here's a detailed guide to help you make that decision with confidence.

1. Verify the actual specialization.

Not all lawyers work exclusively with immigration. Many handle various areas of law and only occasionally take on immigration cases. Prefer professionals with proven experience and a focus on your specific needs—whether it's a Golden Visa , family reunification, work visa, digital nomad visa , student visa, or residency by investment.
💡 How to verify: Ask to see previous cases similar to yours and inquire about their success rate; check their LinkedIn profile.

2. Transparency from the start

A serious lawyer doesn't promise guaranteed approval. They present realistic scenarios, point out risks, and clarify costs and deadlines in detail. Transparency from the first contact is a sign of professionalism.
💡 Caution: Be wary of those who offer miraculous "shortcuts" or prices far below market value—in immigration, cheap can be expensive.

3. Up-to-date knowledge

Immigration laws are constantly changing. What was valid last month may already have been altered by a new decision from parliament or the court. A good lawyer keeps up with relevant decrees, rulings, and case law.
💡 Example: The recent decision of the Portuguese Constitutional Court and the President's veto of changes to the rules on family reunification.

4. Clarity in communication

The immigration process involves bureaucratic steps, forms, deadlines, and document requirements. A lawyer who communicates clearly and accessibly helps you understand each phase, avoiding mistakes and missed deadlines.
💡 Tip: Prefer someone who is available to answer questions via email or message and who sends summaries of the process progress.

5. Clear and detailed contract

No verbal agreements. A formal contract should state:

  • Services included

  • Fees and payment methods

  • Responsibilities of the lawyer and the client

  • Estimated deadlines
    protect both sides and avoid misunderstandings.

6. References and reputation

Before hiring, research the professional's background. Client reviews, recommendations, and participation in industry associations help validate credibility.
💡 Where to look: Social media, LinkedIn, expatriate groups, and lawyers' associations.

7. Alignment with your profile and objectives

Each client has a unique reality: entrepreneurs, hired professionals, students, or entire families undergoing a change. The lawyer must adapt the strategy to their profile, not apply generic solutions.

8. Costs and investments

Hiring a good lawyer is an investment, not just an expense. Compare proposals, but also evaluate the professional's experience, availability, and success rate.

📌 Extra tip: A good immigration lawyer doesn't sell shortcuts — they build solid paths to ensure your move is safe and permanent.

🔗 Read also: Updated rules for family reunification in Portugal.

💬 Looking for personalized guidance? Schedule a consultation and discover the best path for your situation.