The Portuguese government has launched a new initiative aimed at supporting migrants enrolled in the National Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP). Known as Programa Integrar, this program is designed to assist unemployed individuals, first-time job seekers, and migrants who wish to change professions or access vocational training.
Programa Integrar offers a comprehensive range of services, including vocational training, support for skills recognition, and assistance with job searching. The initiative aims to break down cultural barriers and enhance participants' social and professional skills, improving their chances of finding employment. It incorporates various active employment measures to provide tailored solutions for each participant.
As part of the program, the IEFP will conduct an individual assessment of each participant’s profile, needs, and expectations. This assessment, conducted through an in-person interview, will help create personalized employment and training plans. Additionally, the program offers support for Portuguese language learning when necessary, ensuring that participants can fully integrate into the workforce.
The program also emphasizes the recognition and evaluation of participants' existing educational and professional qualifications, guiding them through equivalence or recognition processes where applicable. This initiative responds to the urgent need to welcome and integrate migrants, especially in light of Portugal’s ageing population and workforce shortages in key sectors of the economy.