Portugal's top court blocks bill restricting immigration

Portugal's Constitutional Court has blocked a bill aimed at restricting immigration due to concerns it would hinder family reunifications for legal immigrants. The decision led President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to return the bill to parliament, which is currently on break.

The proposed legislation would have forced many immigrants to wait two years before bringing family members to Portugal, with only skilled workers and investors exempt. The court deemed this could "lead to the separation of family members," violating constitutional rights.

The bill was supported by the ruling coalition and the far-right Chega party, provoking criticism from left-wing opposition for being inhumane. The government plans to amend the bill in response to the court's ruling.