Could Portugal be excluded from the Schengen Agreement? What we know

Updated on May 13, 2024, 12:17 AM IST

Portugal is at risk of being excluded from the Schengen area due to delays in implementing new EU-mandated border control systems. Minister António Leitão Amaro blames the previous government for the delay. Urgent efforts are underway to meet the July deadline, with bureaucratic hurdles and financial constraints complicating the process. The result will have a significant impact on Portuguese tourism and relations with the EU.

Portugal’s Schengen status in jeopardy: Visa delays increase border control concerns

Portugal is currently struggling with an impending threat and possible exclusion from the Schengen area. The threat arises from the country’s delay in implementing new border control systems mandated by the European Union (EU). But despite the gloom, the issue receives little attention in domestic politics.

The main focus is on installing a new border control system. According to the mandate, it must be fully operational and validated by July. If the deadline is not met, there is a risk that Portugal will be excluded from the Schengen area. Such a move could have drastic consequences, especially for the country Tourism sector.

Presidential Minister António Leitão Amaro has openly acknowledged the problem at hand. He acknowledged the possible consequences for Portuguese tourism should there be a suspension. He attributed the delay to the previous government under António Costa. He pointed out that despite approving a budget of 25 million euros in March, they had not managed to start the tender process for the purchase of the necessary equipment.

Efforts are currently underway to speed up the procurement process through the use of direct contracts. However, this move has been met with criticism, citing perceived favoritism and a lack of efficiency. Regardless, the July deadline is fast approaching and authorities are working to overcome bureaucratic hurdles, including the Court of Auditors’ assessment.

The European Union is closely monitoring Portugal’s progress. This emerges from the recent video conference between Paulo Viseu Pinheiro, head of the country’s Internal Security System (SSI), and the EU’s Director General of Internal Affairs. However, despite the ongoing challenges, there is cautious optimism that Portugal will be ready by October – provided it overcomes significant bureaucratic and financial hurdles.

This delay in setting up the border control system is part of a broader delay in the implementation of the EU Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), funded by European Commission. So far, the procurement and bureaucratic processes are the biggest challenges for Portugal in maintaining its Schengen membership.

The deadline is getting closer and Portugal is under intense observation. To avoid a suspension from the Schengen area, Portugal must race against time to comply with EU rules. The outcome could have implications for the country’s economy, security and even its global reputation.

By Jenel Treza Albuquerque

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