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Applying to be a Portuguese citizen The benefits process
As a result of the multiple benefits, Portugal has remained a popular destination for foreign nationals emigrating abroad. According to recent statistics, the number of foreigner nationals residing in Portugal has continuously increased over five consecutive years, and the expat population has reached a record number (over one million). Though there are many advantages to gaining permanent residency in Portugal, foreign nationals may choose to seek citizenship.
This guide will explore the benefits of becoming a Portuguese citizen, as well as the application process, and what is required of foreign nationals.
Click on the links below to jump to that section:
Find out whether becoming a Portuguese citizen is beneficial compared to permanent residency.
The different ways to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Find out the documentation needed during the citizenship process in Portugal.
Find out the application process for becoming a Portuguese citizen.
Discover how Giambrone and Partners’ immigration lawyers can help you.
Read the most common queries on Portuguese citizenship.
Is becoming a Portuguese citizen beneficial?
Portugal is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, so it is no wonder why the country is often populated by tourists and foreign nationals. The country has also had a high demand for citizenship applications since 2018, with requests in 2022 increasing by 37%. There are many reasons why somebody may want to become a Portuguese citizen, such as access to their robust healthcare system and educational facilities.
Other benefits of becoming a Portuguese citizen include:
Ability to work in Portugal without the need for a work visa
Easier to buy property in Portugal
Free travel across the Schengen region in Europe
Ability to live and work in other EU member states
You can have dual citizenship, as long as your country of origin allows it
If you are interested in residing in Portugal or gaining citizenship, instruct multi-lingual and multi-jurisdictional lawyers who can guide you through the process and ensure you understand what is required.
Contact Giambrone & Partners’ citizenship lawyers today for more information.
What are the main paths to becoming a Portuguese citizen?
There are several pathways to Portuguese citizenship, addressing the various circumstances and backgrounds of the applicants The most common methods include:
Naturalisation: The updated Portuguese Nationality Law allows a foreign national to apply for citizenship after five years from the date of the first residency application. This new change to the law could have a positive impact on the waiting times for citizenship, which have been more than two years in the past.
Descent or birth: If a person can prove they have a Portuguese parent or grandparent, they may be eligible to apply for citizenship.
Marriage or de facto union: Working separately from the naturalisation route, foreigners can apply for Portuguese citizenship after being married to a Portuguese national for at least three years. It also does not require residency in Portugal and can be applied even if the couple resides in a different country.
Investment: Also known as the Golden Visa programme, this investment scheme allows individuals to gain residency and eventually citizenship in Portugal through significant financial investment. There have been recent amendments, including a new law (Mais Habitação) to a Portugal Golden Visa - find out more about the benefits and changes to the Portuguese Golden Visa Programme here.
What is the criteria required for the citizenship application in Portugal?
Applying for Portuguese citizenship involves meeting specific requirements, which vary depending on the chosen path. For naturalisation, applicants must first ensure they have legally resided in Portugal for the required five years, starting from the date of the first residency application. This period should be supported by valid residency permits and proof of continuous residence, such as rental agreements, utility bills, and employment records.
Other required documentation needed includes:
Birth certificate
Proof of knowledge of Portuguese
Current passport
Evidence of a current residence permit
Evidence of place of birth, current residence, and a list of countries previously resided in
Criminal record certificate
There is no citizenship test in Portugal like in other countries. However, many applicants may have to take and pass a Portuguese language test (CIPLE - Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) to prove they understand Portuguese to an A2 level. This should demonstrate a basic understanding of the language, and Portuguese history and culture.
Read more about our Portuguese citizenship services, including the benefits and what is required, here.
What is the application process for citizenship in Portugal?
There are different application procedures that vary depending on the path chosen. If you are applying for Portuguese citizenship online, this can only be done by an immigration lawyer (Avvocato), who can access it through NacionalidadOnline.
Portuguese citizenship must be applied for in person through a face-to-face an appointment booked in advance with the Centro de Atendimento Consular. The cost will also vary, for example, an application for Portuguese citizenship by descent, the application is free, compared to other avenues that cost €250.
Alongside the right documentation and ensuring that you are eligible, foreign nationals can apply for Portuguese citizenship at:
National Support Centre for the Integration of Migrants (CNAIM)
Civil Registry Offices
Citizen Shop
Central Registry Office in Lisbon
Portuguese embassy or Consulate in your home country
How can immigration lawyers help?
For complete clarity on what is expected of you when applying to become a Portuguese citizen, consider instructing experienced and multi-jurisdictional immigraton lawyer. Giambrone and Partners is an international law firm specialising in various practice areas, including assisting foreign nationals to apply for citizenship in Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal.
Giambrone and Partners’ highly experienced immigration lawyers will advise and guide you through the process of gaining Portuguese citizenship, explaining the different paths to find the one suitable for your specifications. We will examine your eligibility, help source the right documentation, and ensure your application will not be rejected due to an avoidable error.
If you are looking to apply for Portuguese citizenship or would like to request a call back with one of our experienced immigration lawyers, contact Giambrone and Partners today.
Frequently asked questions
Can you apply for Portuguese citizenship if you have a criminal record?
Applying for Portuguese citizenship with a criminal record can be challenging, as one of the primary requirements for naturalisation is having a clear criminal record. Portuguese authorities conduct thorough background checks to ensure applicants do not pose a security risk.
It is advisable to consult with a citizenship lawyer to assess the specifics of the criminal record and receive guidance on the best course of action.
What is the difference between permanent residency and citizenship?
Permanent Portuguese residency allows foreign nationals to live and work indefinitely and enjoy many of the same rights as citizens. However, they do not have the right to vote or gain a Portuguese passport. Citizenship, on the other hand, confers full legal membership in the Portuguese state and citizens will also have the right to freely travel and reside in other EU countries.
Both permanent residency and citizenship have their advantages for a foreign national looking to reside in Portugal. Consult an experienced immigration lawyer who will determine the best route for you based on your specific requirements and eligibility.