In the initial phase, between 1999 and 2002, immigration was processed either in an organized manner, based on intermediaries, or through international networks of illegal recruitment of workers, disguised as travel agencies.
[5][7][8] From 2004, following the decline in investment in major public works, the economic recession and improved mechanisms for controlling illegal immigration, many Ukrainians have left the country.
[5] Since 2009, the decline in the number of immigrants has steepened as a consequence of the economic crisis that has been occurring from 2008 on, and also due to the acquisition of Portuguese nationality by many Ukrainian citizens.
Among these, many decided to settle permanently in Portugal, joining or forming their families in the country and seeking recognition of their academic and professional qualifications, aiming access to more skilled and better paid jobs.
[5] Although the initial migration flow was motivated by job search and was predominantly masculine, the female component in the Ukrainian community in Portugal has increased substantially during the following years, particularly for reasons related to family reunification.