Overview: Why Portugal Is Changing Its Citizenship Rules

Portugal has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for relocation and investment — thanks to its stable economy, high quality of life, and pathways to EU citizenship.
However, rising immigration numbers and political debate have pushed lawmakers to tighten the nationality requirements, emphasizing integration and long-term commitment to the country.

The new Portuguese citizenship law (2025) is designed to ensure that only residents who demonstrate a genuine link to Portugal — socially, culturally, and economically — qualify for nationality.

Main Changes in Portugal’s Nationality Law

1. Longer Residency Requirement

The minimum legal residence period before applying for Portuguese nationality will now be:

• 10 years for most foreign nationals (previously 5 years).
• 7 years for citizens of Lusophone countries (CPLP) and EU nationals.

This means many residents will have to wait twice as long before becoming eligible for citizenship.

2. Stricter Rules for Children Born in Portugal

A child born in Portugal to foreign parents will now only obtain nationality if at least one parent has held legal residence for 5 years.
Under the old law, even one year of residence — sometimes without legal status — could be enough.

This reform directly affects families with children born in Portugal who have not yet applied for nationality.

3. New Integration and Knowledge Requirements

Applicants must go beyond language proficiency.
They will now be required to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of Portuguese culture, history, and national symbols, possibly through a formal integration test or certificate.
• Sign a declaration of adherence to the values and principles of the Portuguese Republic.

These conditions aim to reinforce cultural connection and civic integration.

4. Proof of Financial Stability

All applicants must prove sufficient financial means to support themselves.
The exact income level or acceptable proof (e.g., tax returns, employment records, or bank statements) will be clarified in upcoming regulations (portarias).

5. Criminal and Legal Restrictions

• Applicants with a prison sentence of two years or more may have their application denied.
• Time spent in the “manifestation of interest” phase (before receiving residence approval) will no longer count toward the legal residency period.

This change particularly affects individuals still awaiting SEF/AIMA approval for residence permits.

6. Citizenship by Marriage or Civil Partnership

Foreigners seeking nationality through a de facto union must now:

• Obtain a judicial confirmation of their partnership, and
• Prove at least three years of cohabitation.

This change formalizes what was previously a simpler administrative process.

7. Great-Grandchildren of Portuguese Citizens Now Eligible

The reform expands the right to nationality to great-grandchildren of Portuguese nationals, provided they can demonstrate a genuine connection to Portugal — for example, through family ties, language, or regular visits.

8. Revocation and Loss of Citizenship

Those who obtained Portuguese nationality through fraudulent means can now lose it.
In addition, courts may revoke citizenship as a penalty in serious criminal cases involving prison sentences of four years or more.

Political Context and Implementation Timeline

The bill was approved on October 28, 2025, with 157 votes in favor and 64 against, mostly supported by right-wing parties.
After presidential approval and publication in the Diário da República, the law will take effect the very next day, unless a specific date is announced.

Some aspects — such as cultural tests, financial thresholds, and official forms — will be defined through secondary regulations over the coming months.

What You Should Do Now

• Apply under the current rules: If you already meet the existing 5-year residency requirement, submit your application immediately before the law takes effect.
• Consult a professional: Legal guidance is highly recommended, particularly for families with children, de facto unions, or pending residence applications.
• Stay updated: No grace period has been approved, so once the law is enforced, the new requirements will apply to all applications — even those in preparation.

Expert Insight: What This Means for Foreign Residents

This 2025 reform represents the biggest overhaul of Portugal’s citizenship system in decades.
It underscores the government’s intention to make nationality a reward for genuine integration, not just a byproduct of residence.

While many see this as a step toward preserving national identity, others warn it could raise constitutional challenges and slow down naturalization for long-term residents who contribute to Portuguese society.

Final Word

If you’re planning to apply for Portuguese citizenship, the time to act is now.
These legal adjustments will reshape the path to becoming a Portuguese national — making early application, accurate documentation, and professional advice more important than ever.