The application period for the organisation of Portuguese Language Courses for Foreigners in the Autonomous Region of the Azores is open until March 31.

This is the deadline for interested organisations to formally declare their intention to provide this training, which aims to contribute to the full integration of foreign citizens living in the archipelago, through their professional and personal development.

The Portuguese Language Courses for Foreigners are promoted and supported by the Regional Government, through the Regional Directorate for the Communities and the Regional Directorate for Education and Educational Administration. They may be taught by public school establishments, public, private or cooperative organisations, namely municipalities, companies or business associations, unions, as well as local, regional or national associations.

These courses are aimed at foreign citizens residing in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, aged 18 or over, who can attest that they do not hold Portuguese nationality. They are also required to hold a valid permanent residence permit in Portugal or proof that they have taken the necessary procedures to obtain, renew or extend it.

Since 2013, a total of 25 courses have been held, reaching around 500 trainees from 59 countries living on the islands of Faial, Flores, Pico, São Miguel and Terceira. The successful completion of these courses certifies trainees with Portuguese language proficiency skills – A2 level, proving their knowledge of the Portuguese language under the terms of the provisions of the Portuguese Nationality Regulations as well as the legal scheme on the entry, permanence and removal of foreigners from the national territory and respective regulations.

Entities interested in promoting these courses in 2023 have until the end of this month to submit their application. The courses are regulated by ordinance no. 49/2012 of April 27, amended and republished by ordinance no. 56/2014, of August 19. For more information, those who are interested should contact the Regional Directorate for the Communities by telephone 296 204 700, email to [email protected] or click on the link https://bit.ly/3ZQhXDQ.