written by We bring you a new Smart Update on the changes introduced by Order No. 1.668/2026 to the procedure for identifying and updating shortage occupations.
One of the main changes is the reduction from 10 to 5 of the minimum threshold for the number of individual employment contracts and employment permits considered when identifying shortage occupations. This will make it easier for employers to propose that certain occupations be included on the List, as a low number of requested positions can no longer, in itself, be grounds for rejecting a proposal.
Additionally, the review period for proposals to update the List has been reduced from 30 to 10 calendar days for submissions registered on or after 5 November 2026.
Another important clarification is that a low number of requested positions cannot, in itself, constitute grounds for rejecting a proposal. The assessment will also take into account recruitment difficulties, workforce availability and the potential impact of postponing the List’s update.
