🇵🇹
PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP
One of the most valued passports in the world, with free movement across the European Union and visa-free access to more than 180 countries. The path is possible, but requires legal compliance over several years.
In May 2026, Portugal’s nationality law was amended. The most relevant change for international applicants is the increase in the minimum period of legal residency required to apply for naturalisation.
Previously, the required period was 5 years. Under the new law, the period becomes 10 years for nationals of third countries, remaining at 7 years for nationals of CPLP countries (Portuguese-speaking countries: Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste).
This change applies to new applications submitted after the law’s entry into force. Cases already in progress, or with acquired rights, may be subject to a different regime.
Our approach
Maintain a valid, uninterrupted residency permit throughout the entire required period, with renewals completed within the deadlines.
Official certification at A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, obtained through a recognised examination (such as the CIPLE exam).
Not to have been convicted, by final court decision, of a crime punishable under Portuguese law by a prison sentence of three years or more.
The law requires demonstration of an effective connection to the Portuguese community. This is a requirement assessed on a case-by-case basis, based on multiple factors.
A realistic view of the process, from your first residency permit to your citizenship application:
Initial residency permit, with renewals every 2 years. Requires maintaining the requirements of your chosen visa (Golden Visa, D7, D8, or other).
After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency, which replaces the temporary permit and does not require periodic renewals.
Having met the legal residency period and other requirements, you may file the application for Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation.
Once approved, you hold Portuguese nationality in full, with a Portuguese passport and the right to vote in Portugal and in European Union institutions.
FAQ
Portugal accepts dual citizenship. When you acquire Portuguese citizenship, you do not need to renounce your current nationality, unless the laws of your country of origin require it.
Minor children included in the applicant’s residency can, as a rule, be included in the citizenship application or apply separately based on their own residency time. Each case should be analysed individually.
Prolonged absences from Portuguese territory can affect the maintenance of residency, especially for visas that require primary residence in Portugal (D7 and D8). The Golden Visa is more flexible in this regard.
Yes. The residency time counts from the granting of the first Golden Visa residency permit, provided that the minimum presence requirements (7 days per year) are met and residency remains valid.
We help you plan it from day one, with support at every renewal, every legislative change, and at the moment of the citizenship application.
A no-obligation Q&A session with one of our advisors, at no cost.
