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A Guide to Portuguese Nationality Laws What Should Foreign Nationals Know?
The Portuguese Nationality Act is the primary law governing citizenship and nationality in Portugal. This legislation is in place to protect the country’s eligibility criteria for new citizens, regardless of the pathway chosen.
This guide will help you understand the complexities of Portuguese Nationality Law, explore recent law changes which may impact citizenship applications, and how Giambrone & Partners' immigration lawyers (Advogados) can assist.
Click on the links below to jump to that section:
Understand the basics of the Portuguese Nationality Law and its core principles.
Discover the most common ways to apply for Portuguese citizenship and how nationality laws govern these.
Browse the latest amendments to the Nationality Law.
A step-by-step guide to applying for Portuguese citizenship.
Find out how Giambrone & Partners can assist with the Portuguese citizenship process.
Read common queries on Portuguese citizenship.
An Overview of Portuguese Nationality Law
In Portugal, citizenship is primarily governed by Law no. 37/81 of 3 October, the Portuguese Nationality Law, together with various amendments introduced over the years that reflect Portugal’s evolving social, political, and legal landscape.
Although the Nationality Law came into effect in the 1980s, its origins date back to the 1600s. Portuguese citizenship’s legal framework was first established through the Ordination of King Philip II of Portugal (the Ordenações Filipinas), which regulated both jus soli (right of the soil) and jus sanguinis (right of blood).
Automatic citizenship is granted to individuals born to Portuguese parents, while acquired citizenship applies to those who must submit a formal application through one of the recognised legal routes.
To understand the legal nuances of citizenship, it is recommended to seek assistance as soon as possible. Expert immigration lawyers (Advogados) who are experts in the evolving laws will guide you through the application process and assess your eligibility for Portuguese citizenship.
If you would like to discuss your options, request a callback with Giambrone & Partners’ Portuguese lawyers below.
To discuss your circumstances, Contact us today.
Request callback
To discuss your circumstances, Contact us today.
+44(0)207 183 9482
What Are the Different Pathways to Portuguese Citizenship Under Nationality Law?
To become a Portuguese citizen, there are different pathways governed under the Nationality Law:
Citizenship by descent (Jus Sanguinis)
Under Article 1 of the Nationality Law, individuals born to at least one Portuguese parent or Portuguese grandparent may be entitled to nationality by descent, even if they were born abroad.
Potential applicants must provide birth certificates to demonstrate a clear genealogical link and proof of a strong connection to the Portuguese community. This is particularly key for grandchildren with a Portuguese grandparent.
Read more about the application process to become a Portuguese citizen by descent or birth here.
Citizenship through naturalisation
Under Article 6, citizenship by naturalisation is available to foreign nationals after five years of residence in Portugal (previously six). This can be achieved through various residence permits, including the Golden Visa.
Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation is one of the most common routes for non-EU residents.
Citizenship by marriage or De Facto Union (unmarried cohabiting partners)
Under Article 3, foreign nationals who are married to a Portuguese spouse or in a recognised partnership (de facto union) may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage or cohabitation.
Integration into Portuguese society must be demonstrated through evidence such as purchasing real estate, participating in cultural activities and achieving a proficiency to the level of A2 in the Portuguese language.
How Do Recent Changes to Portuguese Nationality Law Affect Applications for Citizenship?
In Portugal, new citizenship laws are frequently amended in response to social and political shifts. In 2024, the Nationality Law underwent significant legislative changes, impacting various pathways to citizenship. Effective from 1 April, Law No. 1/2024 marked the tenth major amendment, which included:
Faster Path to Citizenship
The Portuguese government have changed the legal residency requirement for the naturalisation pathway. Now, applicants must have lived continuously in Portugal for at least five years, shortened from six. This simplifies access for long-term residents.
Additionally, the initial timeframe has changed the starting date of the residency. The five years start from the date the residence permit application was first submitted, rather than the date it was granted. This change consequently means applicants no longer have to wait until their permit is finalised, which may take up to 18 months.
Revisions to Sephardic Jewish Eligibility
Tighter regulations require stronger evidence of connection to the Sephardic community and greater scrutiny of genealogical claims. Certification must now come from communities officially recognised by the Portuguese government, comprising representatives, academics in Sephardic studies and members of Portuguese Jewish authorities.
Children of Portuguese Residents
Previous 2020 amendments saw a change to the Jus Sanguinis principle. Children born in Portugal to foreign parents can now apply if only one parent has been living legally in Portugal for at least one year. Before 2020, both parents were required to have proof of legal residency.
Legislative changes can affect both new and ongoing citizenship applications, so it’s important to seek guidance throughout the process. Portuguese immigration lawyers (Advogados) in order to stay current on legal updates and ensure you remain eligible for citizenship.
What is the Application Process for Applying for Portuguese Citizenship?
Applying for Portuguese citizenship involves a structured legal process overseen by the Central Registry Office (Conservatória dos Registos Centrais). First, applicants must compile a dossier of required documents, including birth certificates, valid identification and proof of residence. It's crucial to ensure that all documents that were not originally drafted in Portuguese are accurately translated.
Once your documentation is in order, you can submit your application either in person or through a legal representative. The submission must be complete and adhere strictly to the requirements to avoid delays.
For more information, read our full guide on the application process to become a citizen in Portugal here.
Many applicants encounter setbacks due to incomplete or improperly prepared documentation.
Giambrone & Partners is an international law firm specialising in cross-border matters. Our multilingual and multijurisdictional approach will help navigate the complexities of cross-border immigration laws when obtaining Portuguese citizenship.
We offer tailored legal support, ensuring that your journey to Portuguese citizenship is as smooth and efficient as possible.
If you would like to discuss your circumstances further, request a callback with Giambrone & Partners' Portuguese lawyers here.
To discuss your circumstances, Contact us today.
Request callback
To discuss your circumstances, Contact us today.
+44(0)207 183 9482
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Portuguese to apply for citizenship?
For most routes to citizenship, applicants must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language to a level A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). You will need to pass a certified language test, which includes oral, written, and reading components.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for Portuguese citizenship?
While not legally required, working with a Portuguese immigration lawyer can significantly increase your chances of success. They will help prevent delays, manage legal risks, understand the differing immigration laws, and the updated legislation.
Request a callback with our expert cross-border immigration lawyers for more advice.