PORTUGAL
Portugal joined European Union somewhat late in 1986 and the Schengen area in 1995. Portugal opened immigration in 1996 when the first rush of Sikh immigrants came to the country mainly from other European countries to get papers, i.e., work permit. Immigration opened during following years, each time for about three years at a time under differing regulations. In Portugal if one has lived for 5 years one is entitled to get Portuguese passport which is a big positive. Portugal seems to be immigrant friendly. The 1990s construction boom to improve the infrastructure created a great demand for un-skilled labour providing opportunity for Sikh immigration. To start with most of them were able to get jobs on construction sites. In due course of time they moved to other jobs and even opened their own businesses and restaurants. Portugal has witnessed an increase of irregular migrants over the past decades.

RUSSIA
There is a small Sikh community in the country. Refugees from Afghanistan form a substantial part of the Sikh diaspora. There is a gurdwara in Moscow. During 1950-80, some Sikh students and political immigrants came. From 1990s onwards the migration comprised mainly of businessmen.

SPAIN
Spain opened immigration several times beginning 1991 and again in 2000 and 2005. The older immigrants are from 1980s and newer ones are only a few years old. Many of them have moved from other West European countries because of ease of getting residence status. Three-year residence can entitle immigrants to get work permit. However, wages are low in Spain, and many want to move north after getting residence status. The main population concentration is in Catalonia Province which includes Barcelona and suburbs, and Gerona especially Olot. Popular professions are restaurants, construction, and agriculture. Presently a large number of the immigrants are out of job because of economic melt-down since last 3- 4 years. They are apprehensive of their future and those who can are migrating preferably to Canada and North European countries.