How to Get Citizenship in Portugal: The Ultimate Guide

In today's connected world, many people want to become citizens of another country. Portugal is one popular choice, known for its history, beautiful scenery, good weather, and high quality of life.

Being a citizen of Portugal brings many advantages. As a Portuguese citizen, you can live, work, study, and travel freely throughout the European Union.

But how do you become a Portuguese citizen? There is a variety of ways, including through marriage, descent, investment, or residency.

This guide explains the process of obtaining Portuguese nationality in 2024, covering the requirements, application procedures, benefits, and more.

Here's what you'll discover below:

The benefits of being a Portuguese citizen
How to obtain Portuguese nationality
Main routes to acquire citizenship in Portugal,
Gatting citizenship through the Portuguese Golden Visa, and more.

March Update 2024: New Changes in Portugal’s Nationality Law

The Portuguese parliament has recently approved significant changes to the country’s nationality law. It is believed that these changes will be beneficial to the thousands of Golden Visa applicants affected by delays in residency application processing by AIMA (former SEF Immigration and Border Services).

This major revision addresses the waiting period required for Portuguese nationality applications.

The law was published on 5 March 2024 and will come into force on 1 April 2024.

What are the changes to the Portuguese law?

Previously, under Article 6, Paragraph 1 of the nationality law, foreign citizens looking to get Portuguese nationality through naturalization were required to hold residency in Portugal for a minimum of five years, among other requirements. The initiation of the five years for nationality application started upon the issuance of the initial Portuguese residence permit.

Under this new legislative development, the amended Article 15, now incorporating Paragraph 1 of the Portuguese nationality law, states that the time between the submission of the temporary residency permit application and its final approval will be taken into account when calculating the required legal residency period for nationality, as long as the residence permit is granted.

Why are the changes in the law so important?

The changes to Portugal’s nationality law are expected to bring positive changes for Golden Visa applicants, and those waiting to get their Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.

Previously, applicants faced the strict requirement of a minimum five-year residency period commencing from the issuance of the initial residency permit. This often translated to lengthy waiting times, with candidates enduring delays attributed to processing backlogs at the former SEF.

This means that individuals who have faced delays in residency approvals due to factors such as COVID-19, the Ukranian War, and the restructuring of the Portuguese immigration department will now have their waiting period considered, allowing them to apply for Portuguese nationality sooner. For example, individuals wanting to apply for Portuguese residency in 2024 would fulfill the five-year residency requirement for Portuguese citizenship by 2029, irrespective of potential delays in the processing of the residency application.

This change is a key step towards enhancing the overall experience of individuals seeking to move to Portugal or those looking to secure Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.

Top Benefits of Citizenship in Portugal

Travel Freedom and EU Benefits

As a Portuguese citizen, you can travel visa-free or get visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations worldwide. Being an EU member, Portuguese citizens have the privilege to freely travel, live, work, and study in any EU or European Economic Area (EEA) country without additional permits or visas required.

EU Residency Rights

Portugal is a European Union country. This means that, alongside global travel benefits, Portuguese nationals can enjoy settlement, employment, and education opportunities in all EU nations.

Access to Quality Healthcare and Education

Becoming a Portuguese citizen grants access to Portugal's esteemed social security system, renowned for its robust healthcare services and quality education facilities. Additionally, Portuguese nationals can benefit from free education in top-tier institutions and government-sponsored healthcare programs.

High Quality of Life and Affordable Living Costs

Portugal offers an excellent quality of life with its pleasant climate, safe surroundings, rich culinary culture, and historical heritage. Moreover, compared to other EU countries, Portugal boasts a relatively lower cost of living, making it an attractive and affordable choice for many individuals, including a significant influx of UK citizens and Americans in recent years.

Employment Opportunities without Work Permits

Possessing a Portuguese passport guarantees lifelong employment prospects, both full-time and part-time, without the need for additional work permits.

Global Mobility and Passport Power

Holding a Portuguese passport provides extensive global access, with visa-free entry to 174 countries. Ranked 31st overall in the Global Passport Index, the Portuguese passport stands out in the Enhanced Mobility Index (12th position) and Quality of Life Index (13th position). In essence, a Portuguese passport is a highly valuable asset for global mobility and access.

Dual Citizenship in Portugal

Portuguese nationality law allows for dual citizenship, meaning you can become a Portuguese citizen without renouncing your original citizenship. However, verifying if your home country permits multiple citizenships is important before you claim Portuguese citizenship.

Portuguese Citizenship Requirements

Foreign nationals can apply for citizenship through naturalization after keeping legal residence in Portugal for five years. However, if you're married to or in a de facto union with a Portuguese citizen, you can apply for citizenship without meeting the five-year residency requirement. Both parties must provide birth certificates in this case.

For legal residents applying for Portuguese citizenship, the application must include a certified criminal record from AIMA, the replacement for SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service), evidence of fluency in the Portuguese idiom, a clean bill of health, and proof of Portuguese residency.

To meet the language fluency requirement, applicants must pass the CIPLE exam, which is the Portuguese language test. This test assesses their ability to comprehend and use everyday Portuguese expressions, write, and speak Portuguese at an A2 level.

Portuguese residence permit

In order to be eligible for citizenship and permanent residence, you must have had legal residence for at least five years in Portugal. If you’re married to a Portuguese passport holder or have Portuguese children, you must have had a Portugal residence permit for the previous three years.

Portuguese citizenship language test

The Portuguese citizenship language test assesses the applicant's proficiency in Portuguese, the country's official language. This test typically includes written and oral components, and applicants must achieve a minimum level of proficiency to pass. The specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant's age, education level, and other factors.

Criminal record certificate document

When applying for Portugal citizenship, one requirement is to provide a criminal record certificate document from the applicant's home country. This document is intended to demonstrate that the applicant has not been convicted of any crimes or engaged in any activities that would make them ineligible for citizenship.

The criminal record certificate must be issued by the relevant authority in the applicant's home country and must be translated into Portuguese by an official translator. The certificate must also be apostilled or legalized in accordance with the requirements of the Portuguese authorities.

It is important to note that a criminal record does not necessarily disqualify an applicant from obtaining Portuguese citizenship. However, certain types of crimes may make an applicant ineligible, such as those involving terrorism, drug trafficking, or crimes against humanity.

Civic knowledge test

In addition to taking the Portuguese language test, Portugal citizenship applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of the country's civic values and institutions. This typically involves passing a civic knowledge exam, which tests the applicant's understanding of Portuguese history, politics, and culture.

The exam may cover topics such as the Portuguese constitution, the country's legal system, and key events in Portuguese history. By requiring applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in Portuguese and their knowledge of Portuguese society, the citizenship process helps to ensure that new citizens are fully integrated into the country's social and political fabric.

Top Routes to Portugal Citizenship

How to get Portuguese citizenship through parents

Portuguese citizenship can be acquired through descent from a Portuguese parent. If at least one of the applicant's parents is a Portuguese passport holder, the applicant may be eligible for Portugal citizenship by descent.

The process for obtaining citizenship through Portuguese parents typically involves the following steps:

Gather the necessary documents: The applicant will need to obtain a copy of their birth certificate and the birth certificate of the parent who has Portuguese nationality.
Obtain a certificate of Portuguese nationality: The applicant will need to apply for a certificate of Portuguese nationality from the Portuguese consulate in their country of residence. This certificate confirms that the applicant is eligible for Portuguese citizenship by descent.
Apply for citizenship: Once the certificate of Portuguese nationality has been obtained, the applicant can apply for Portuguese citizenship. This typically involves submitting an application form and supporting documents to the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy.

Portuguese citizenship by descent

You can get Portuguese citizenship by descent if you have Portuguese parents or at least one Portuguese parent. The Portuguese Government also allows foreigners to apply for Portuguese citizenship by descent if they have a Portuguese grandparent.

This is because Portuguese Nationality Law recognizes nationality through jus sanguinis (derived from Portuguese ancestors) or territorial (if the child was born in Portuguese territory).

Applying for Portuguese citizenship by descent involves several steps, such as identifying your claim to Portuguese ancestry, which can be through parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents.

It's also necessary to gather documentation proving your lineage to a Portuguese citizen. This typically involves obtaining birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage certificates, which illustrate your familial connection. The type of documentation and process will vary slightly depending on your specific lineage path.

To meet the requirements for residency, you must demonstrate strong connections with the Portuguese community.

Portuguese citizenship by marriage

Foreigners who are married to a person with a Portuguese passport / Portuguese nationality, may be eligible for Portuguese citizenship after three years of marriage.

The process for obtaining citizenship by marriage typically involves the following steps:

Reside in Portugal for three years: In order to be eligible for citizenship by marriage, the foreign spouse must have resided in Portugal for at least three years. The time period may be reduced to one year if the couple has children together.
Demonstrate language proficiency: The foreign spouse must demonstrate basic proficiency in Portuguese. This can typically be done by passing a language test or presenting evidence of completion of a Portuguese language course.
Demonstrate knowledge of Portuguese society and culture: The foreign spouse must demonstrate an understanding of Portuguese society and culture by passing a civic knowledge exam.
Obtain a certificate of Portuguese language and culture: The foreign spouse will need to obtain a certificate of Portuguese language and culture from a Portuguese language institute.
Apply for citizenship: Once the above requirements have been met, the foreign spouse can apply for Portugal citizenship by marriage. This typically involves submitting an application form and supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate, to the Portuguese consulate.

Portuguese Citizenship for Sephardic Jews and Former Territory Residents:

Sephardic Jews, descendants of those expelled from the Iberian Peninsula during the Inquisition, can claim Portuguese citizenship through their ancestry. This opportunity is made possible by the Sephardic Portuguese Jewish community.

To qualify, you need to trace your family lineage to demonstrate Sephardic Jewish ancestry, using documents like marriage, death, or birth certificates. There are other forms of evidence accepted to prove your Portuguese-Jewish heritage. For more information, please refer to our article: "Portuguese Citizenship for Sephardic Jews."

Those born in Portugal (birth naturalization) and current residents of territories once under Portuguese rule can maintain their Portuguese citizenship. Likewise, individuals from former Portuguese colonies who have resided long-term in Portugal can also retain their citizenship. Presenting your birth certificate is necessary to acquire Portuguese citizenship through this pathway.

Portugal citizenship by naturalization

If you are not eligible to get Portuguese citizenship by birth or descent, you may be able to apply for citizenship through naturalization. To do so, you'll need to keep a legal residence in Portugal for five years. Then, you can apply for a permanent residence permit and/or obtain Portuguese nationality.

Citizenship in Portugal by Investment: The Golden Visa Program

The Portuguese Golden Visa program has become increasingly popular among foreign investors seeking to gain residency and eventually citizenship in a European country. The Portuguese Golden Visa program was launched in 2012 as a way to attract foreign investment and stimulate the country's economy. Since then, it has become one of the most successful Golden Visa programs in Europe, with over 10,000 Golden Visa holders and more than €5 billion invested in the country.

One of the main benefits of the Portuguese Golden Visa program is the flexibility it offers in terms of investment options. In addition to real estate, investors can choose to invest in other areas such as research and development, cultural heritage, and renewable energy. This makes the program appealing to a wide range of investors with different investment preferences.

Another advantage of the program is the relatively low investment threshold compared to other European Golden Visa programs. With a minimum investment of €280,000 in real estate or €1.5 million in capital, the Portugal Golden Visa program is more accessible than programs in other countries, such as Spain or Greece, which require higher investment amounts.

Golden Visa holders in Portugal also benefit from a favorable tax regime. Non-habitual residents (NHRs) are subject to a flat tax rate of 20% on income derived from Portuguese sources, and certain types of income, such as pensions and dividends, are exempt from tax altogether. This can result in significant tax savings for Golden Visa holders.

In addition to the economic benefits, the Portugal Golden Visa program also offers a high quality of life. Portugal is known for its mild climate, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. Golden Visa holders and their families can enjoy all the benefits of living in Portugal, including access to world-class healthcare, education, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Golden Visa route to citizenship in Portugal

One of the key advantages of Portugal's Golden Visa program is that it provides a clear and straightforward pathway to citizenship. As mentioned earlier, after five years of holding a Golden Visa, investors can apply for Portuguese citizenship. However, it's important to note that visa holders must maintain their investment during this time and fulfill the minimum stay requirement in order to be eligible for citizenship.

In the meantime, visa holders are granted a temporary residence permit, which allows them to live and work in Portugal, as well as travel freely within the Schengen Area. This can be particularly beneficial for investors who want to relocate to Europe but may not yet be ready to commit to permanent residency or citizenship.

The temporary residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed for two-year periods, provided that the investor continues to meet the investment requirements and minimum stay requirement. This means that holders of the Golden Visa can enjoy long-term residency in Portugal without having to worry about the frequent renewal of their visa or residency permit.

It's also worth noting that investment visa holders can bring their family members with them to Portugal. Spouses, children, and dependent relatives can all apply for a residence permit as well, which allows them to reside in Portugal and enjoy the same benefits as the primary investor. This can be a major advantage for investors who want to relocate with their families and provide them with a high quality of life.

In summary, the Portugal Golden Visa program offers a clear and straightforward pathway to citizenship, with the added benefit of a temporary residence permit for investors and their families. With its low investment threshold, flexible investment options, and favorable tax regime, it's no surprise that the program has become so popular among foreign investors looking to gain residency and eventually citizenship in Europe.

Portuguese Citizenship Application Process

To obtain Portuguese citizenship, there are a few steps you’ll need to take.

Fill out the application form
Submit all the necessary documents with the application fees
Send your application along with all supporting documentation to the Portuguese Consulate (if you’re applying from your home country) or the Registry Office (if you’re applying from Portugal) for processing

The application form will be processed by the Registry Office, which will decide whether or not they believe that you qualify for citizenship.

If you are eligible, the Registry Office will send you an official letter of congratulations and inform you that your application has been approved.

In case you are not eligible for citizenship, you will be informed by the Registry Office and given a reason why.

How do I get a Portuguese passport?

Obtaining a Portuguese passport requires going through certain processes, often starting with either being born to a Portuguese parent or acquiring Portuguese nationality through residency or marriage.

Get in Touch

Our partners, Global Citizen Solutions, can assist you with getting a Golden Visa and acquiring Portuguese citizenship by investment. We can also advise you on alternative visas that offer an eventual route to citizenship, such as the D7 Visa.

We offer services that ease the process of getting Portuguese nationality, such as legal advice, NIF services, and bank account services. If you want to move to Portugal, you'll need a Portuguese bank account and a taxpayer identification number, known as the Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF). We can help you get both. Simply fill out an online form and get your NIF or open a Portuguese bank account from anywhere in the world.

Obtain Portuguese Citizenship: Final Thoughts

In conclusion, obtaining Portuguese citizenship is a great way to enjoy the many benefits of living in Portugal, including traveling and working freely within the European Union.

The requirements and pathways to obtain citizenship are straightforward, and with the proper support and guidance, you could be on your way to achieving your goal of obtaining a Portuguese passport. Whether you want to get citizenship through residency, through Portuguese parents, or a citizenship by investment program, Portugal offers a range of options to suit your needs and requirements.

Helpful Links

If you're considering moving to Portugal and obtaining a Portuguese passort, these blog posts can help ease your transition:

Frequently Asked Questions about Citizenship in Portugal

Is it easy to get citizenship in Portugal?

Obtaining citizenship in Portugal can be a straightforward process for those who meet the eligibility criteria. The process can take some time and requires paperwork and meeting legal requirements. However, Portugal has a relatively straightforward and efficient system for granting citizenship to foreigners.

Can a foreigner get citizenship in Portugal?

Yes, foreigners can obtain citizenship in Portugal through various routes, such as through marriage, investment, or having Portuguese ancestry. Foreigners who have legally resided in Portugal for a certain period may also be eligible for citizenship.

Who is eligible for Portuguese citizenship?

Eligibility for Portuguese citizenship depends on various factors, such as ancestry, marriage, and residency. Foreigners legally residing in Portugal for at least five years may be eligible for citizenship. Additionally, those who have Portuguese ancestry may be eligible for citizenship by descent.

How long does it take to get citizenship in Portugal?

The length of time it takes to obtain citizenship in Portugal varies depending on the individual's circumstances and the route they take. For example, citizenship by ancestry or marriage may take less time than citizenship by residency, which takes five years.

Are you eligible for Portuguese citizenship if you have a Portuguese grandparent?

Yes, the Portuguese Government allows foreigners to apply for Portuguese citizenship by descent if they have a Portuguese grandparent.

Portuguese citizenship law is based on the principle of jus sanguinis, which means that citizenship is primarily determined by descent from a Portuguese parent rather than by birthplace.

Applying for Portuguese citizenship by descent involves several steps, such as identifying your claim to Portuguese ancestry. You must demonstrate strong connections with the Portuguese community.

If you do not have a Portuguese parent or grandparent, you may still be eligible for Portuguese citizenship through other means, such as marriage to a Portuguese citizen or through naturalization (i.e., after legally residing in Portugal for a certain period of time).

However, the eligibility requirements for these pathways may be different and may involve meeting additional criteria such as language proficiency and knowledge of Portuguese society and culture.

Can Portuguese citizens have dual citizenship?

Yes, Portuguese citizens are generally allowed to have dual citizenship. Portugal recognizes the concept of dual nationality and permits its citizens to hold one or more nationalities in addition to their Portuguese citizenship. This means that if a Portuguese citizen acquires the citizenship of another country, they will not lose their Portuguese nationality.

It is worth noting, however, that the rules regarding dual citizenship may vary depending on the other country involved. Some countries may not allow dual citizenship, which could mean that a person would have to renounce their Portuguese citizenship in order to acquire the citizenship of that country. In addition, there may be certain restrictions or requirements imposed by both Portugal and the other country on the acquisition or retention of dual citizenship.

Overall, Portuguese citizens who are interested in acquiring dual citizenship should research the laws and requirements of both Portugal and the other country involved to ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Can European nationals get Portuguese citizenship?

As a foreign national from another Member State of the European Union, you can apply for Portuguese nationality if you meet certain conditions. These include being born in Portugal, having Portuguese parents or grandparents, and being married to a Portuguese person.

How good is Portuguese citizenship?

The Portuguese citizenship has several benefits. As a Portuguese national, you have the privilege to freely travel, live, work, and study in any EU or European Economic Area (EEA) country without additional permits or visas required.

Ranked 31st overall in the Global Passport Index, the Portuguese passport also provides visa-free entry to 174 countries, making it a highly valuable asset for global mobility and access.

How do you get Portuguese citizenship by descent?

You must first identify your claim to Portuguese ancestry, which can be through parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents. You'll also need to gather documentation proving your lineage to a Portuguese citizen. To meet the requirements for residency, you must demonstrate tangible connections with the Portuguese community.