The purpose of the Law is to clarify what is actually changing, what is not, and what we should all expect in the coming weeks.
Our goal is to keep our clients calm and demonstrate that we are on the same page, focusing on clarity, consistency, and long-term trust.
Changes to the Citizenship Law Approved by Portugal: What They Mean for Foreign Residents
The Portuguese Parliament has approved important amendments to the Citizenship Law. Here's what they mean for foreign residents and investors, and what to expect going forward while the reform is under presidential review.
The Portuguese Parliament has approved a series of amendments to the Citizenship Law, changing the procedure for obtaining citizenship.
These changes—among the most comprehensive in recent years—reflect a political effort to tighten formal requirements and establish clearer criteria for integration. While the reform increases the time and introduces additional conditions, it does not restrict access to citizenship. It merely adjusts the existing system.
Portugal continues to offer one of the most transparent and reliable pathways to residency and, ultimately, citizenship in Europe.
For foreign residents, especially investors applying for a Golden Visa (GV), this is not the end, but rather an adjustment. We encourage you to plan ahead, not panic. We will continue to support you every step of the way, providing clear and proactive support.
NOTE: The points below reflect the proposal approved by Parliament based on currently available information. The final text of the law has not yet been published, and some wording may differ from the official version. Once the final text is published, NATLAN will update this website to reflect any confirmed changes and provide an updated summary, if necessary.
I. General Amendments Affecting All Foreign Residents
1. Children Born in Portugal
Until now, children born in Portugal to foreign parents legally residing in the country could automatically acquire citizenship by descent, regardless of how long their parents had legally resided here.
According to the new law:
2. Grandchildren of Portuguese Citizens
Applicants who are grandchildren of Portuguese citizens must now provide more than just proof of kinship. They must also demonstrate:
This ensures that citizenship by descent continues to reflect a genuine and lasting connection to the country.
3. Citizenship by Marriage or Partnership
This route remains available, but two additional safeguards apply:
This standardizes what was previously left to the discretion of the administration, creating greater predictability for applicants.
4. Proof of Financial Viability
Applicants must now demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
5. End of the Naturalization Path for Sephardic Jews
The naturalization regime for Sephardic Jews will officially end upon publication of the law.
This closure marks the end of a historically symbolic program that was already being gradually limited.
II. Amendments of Particular Importance for Golden Visa and Residence Permit Applicants
6. Increase in the Period of Residence for Naturalization
The minimum period of legal residence required for naturalization has been increased:
This change concerns the time limit, not the right to citizenship. GV visa holders retain full rights to apply for citizenship after the required period has expired, once their residence history has been confirmed.
7. New cultural and civic knowledge requirements
In addition to the existing A2 level of Portuguese language proficiency, applicants must now demonstrate:
Regulations on the new assessment will be issued by decree after the law is passed.
IAS expects the process to remain accessible, with tests focusing on basic knowledge rather than academic study, similar to those used in other EU countries.
8. Stricter rules and sanctions regarding criminal records
The new law introduces stricter criteria for selecting applicants with criminal convictions or compliance issues:
These measures apply only to citizenship applications and do not affect Golden Visa or permanent residency applications, which retain their current requirements.
9. Calculation of Residence Period
Under the new law, the period of residency required for naturalization will be calculated from the date of issuance of the first residence card, not from the date of the initial application.
This change is particularly relevant for Golden Visa (GV) holders, as residence cards are often issued several months after approval, effectively delaying the start of the residency period required for citizenship. This measure has generated heated debate and could be amended or refined in the event of a presidential veto.
10. Entry into force
The proposal projects that the reform will enter into force immediately upon publication. However, applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed under the previous legal framework, maintaining the five-year rule.
In previous similar reforms, governments have often introduced transitional measures or amended the draft law based on comments from the president before its publication. It is therefore not surprising that similar changes were adopted in this case. These issues were also at the center of the political debate surrounding the reform, particularly during the parliamentary debates preceding its adoption.
III. Parliamentary Debates and Constitutional Prospects
During the parliamentary debate, Socialist Party (PS) Pedro Delgado Alves expressed several key concerns regarding the approved version of the law:
Constitutional Concerns: He warned that the new rules for loss of citizenship could create unconstitutional distinctions between citizens and could potentially be retroactive, undermining legal certainty.
Naturalization Criteria: He argued that the residency period for naturalization should be seven years instead of the proposed ten, noting that even this increase from the previous five years could be constitutionally questionable.
Transition to the New Rules: He advocated for the current version of the law to remain in effect for individuals whose applications are already pending, so as not to undermine legitimate expectations.
Procedural Fairness: He proposed that applications submitted by individuals who already hold residency permits at the time the new law comes into force continue to be processed under the current five-year rule.
The basis of the government's proposals: He warned that the government's proposed changes to both the Citizenship Act and the Foreigners Act are based on perceptions rather than evidence, suggesting that concerns about a "gravity effect" are not supported by data.
These comments highlight ongoing constitutional and practical issues that could influence the president's upcoming decision.
The law now awaits review by the President of the Republic, who may:
From the IAS perspective, given the significant political divisions in Parliament and the intense public debate surrounding the new regulations, the President of the Republic will likely choose scenarios (ii) or (iii), either returning the law to Parliament for revision or referring it to the Constitutional Court. Similar to previous cases, such as the 2023 and 2025 reforms to the Foreigners Law, a parliamentary review or constitutional review may be requested to strengthen proportionality, protect legitimate expectations, and ensure the long-term constitutional coherence of the Citizenship Law.
Furthermore, given the political divisions in Parliament and the lack of broad consensus, the President is expected to approach the reform with caution. Legislation of such importance typically garners broad support among parties and society; however, this proposal has exposed deep political and ideological divisions.
As a result, the President may consider the reform to be incompletely consistent with constitutional principles and lacking the social legitimacy and stability expected of legislation intended to endure in Portuguese society. Therefore, he or she may decide to veto the law.
IV. Permanent Residence: A Crucial Advantage for Golden Visa Holders
As noted above regarding potential changes to citizenship law, one important advantage in this uncertainty is that Portugal's permanent residence system remains unchanged. It remains one of the most consistent and advantageous long-term residency options in Europe.
Five years after the issuance of their first residence card, Golden Visa holders can apply for a permanent residence permit (PR) under the same conditions. Currently, the average application processing time is approximately six months, and once PR is granted, investors can withdraw their investment without affecting their legal residency status. This marks the transition from an investment-based residence permit to a permanent, independent right of residence in Portugal.
As a rule, permanent residents must not be absent from Portugal for more than 24 consecutive months or 30 interpolated months within a three-year period. However, Golden Visa holders and their family members are exempt from this rule: they only need to spend seven days a year in Portugal to maintain permanent resident status.
This tax exemption remains one of the most distinctive features of the Portuguese residency regime, combining legal certainty with practical flexibility. It allows investors to maintain their residency, mobility, and European base without having to relocate or become a tax resident in Portugal.
Permanent residency grants the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, as well as visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and access to virtually all citizenship rights, with the exception of political participation. For many Golden Visa investors, especially from jurisdictions that restrict dual citizenship, permanent residency often becomes a definitive and secure status, guaranteeing long-term residency and access to Europe within a system based on stability and transparency.
V. Conclusion
The amendments represent a rethinking of the citizenship process, not a restriction on the Portuguese immigration model. They may lengthen the process, but they will not change its direction.
As the legislative process moves into the presidential phase, investors and residents should remain informed but remain calm.
It is important to note that the President of the Republic has historically taken a balanced and pragmatic approach to migration and citizenship issues, often softening restrictive bills passed by Parliament. For this reason, the IAS does not expect this to be the final version of the law. A constitutional review or presidential amendments will likely clarify the timing and details of the law's implementation before its publication.
At this stage, there is no need for individual action or case-by-case assessments. The information provided reflects the current legal and political situation, and no changes have been made to date. Following the publication of the President's decision and the final version of the law, we will publish an updated note detailing any confirmed changes.
Until then, clients and partners are advised to rely on this guidance as the most accurate information available and to await further updates as the legislative process progresses. NATLAN will continue to monitor the presidential proceedings and any proceedings before the Constitutional Court, promptly informing clients and partners and providing them with up-to-date information. This guarantees each applicant clarity, confidence, and trust in Portugal's long-term legal and investment system.
If you are planning to obtain a residence permit, invest in a country's economy, or purchase foreign real estate, we invite you to a consultation with our company. During a personal online meeting, we will thoroughly discuss your questions and develop a step-by-step action plan for you.
Our goal is to keep our clients calm and demonstrate that we are on the same page, focusing on clarity, consistency, and long-term trust.
Changes to the Citizenship Law Approved by Portugal: What They Mean for Foreign Residents
The Portuguese Parliament has approved important amendments to the Citizenship Law. Here's what they mean for foreign residents and investors, and what to expect going forward while the reform is under presidential review.
The Portuguese Parliament has approved a series of amendments to the Citizenship Law, changing the procedure for obtaining citizenship.
These changes—among the most comprehensive in recent years—reflect a political effort to tighten formal requirements and establish clearer criteria for integration. While the reform increases the time and introduces additional conditions, it does not restrict access to citizenship. It merely adjusts the existing system.
Portugal continues to offer one of the most transparent and reliable pathways to residency and, ultimately, citizenship in Europe.
For foreign residents, especially investors applying for a Golden Visa (GV), this is not the end, but rather an adjustment. We encourage you to plan ahead, not panic. We will continue to support you every step of the way, providing clear and proactive support.
NOTE: The points below reflect the proposal approved by Parliament based on currently available information. The final text of the law has not yet been published, and some wording may differ from the official version. Once the final text is published, NATLAN will update this website to reflect any confirmed changes and provide an updated summary, if necessary.
I. General Amendments Affecting All Foreign Residents
1. Children Born in Portugal
Until now, children born in Portugal to foreign parents legally residing in the country could automatically acquire citizenship by descent, regardless of how long their parents had legally resided here.
According to the new law:
- at least one parent must have been a legal resident for five years prior to the child's birth;
- this narrows the principle of jus soli and aligns citizenship acquired by birth with proven residence and social integration.
2. Grandchildren of Portuguese Citizens
Applicants who are grandchildren of Portuguese citizens must now provide more than just proof of kinship. They must also demonstrate:
- proficiency in the Portuguese language;
- familiarity with Portuguese culture, society, and traditions.
This ensures that citizenship by descent continues to reflect a genuine and lasting connection to the country.
3. Citizenship by Marriage or Partnership
This route remains available, but two additional safeguards apply:
- the applicant must have no criminal record; and
- must not pose a threat to national security or public order.
This standardizes what was previously left to the discretion of the administration, creating greater predictability for applicants.
4. Proof of Financial Viability
Applicants must now demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
5. End of the Naturalization Path for Sephardic Jews
The naturalization regime for Sephardic Jews will officially end upon publication of the law.
This closure marks the end of a historically symbolic program that was already being gradually limited.
II. Amendments of Particular Importance for Golden Visa and Residence Permit Applicants
6. Increase in the Period of Residence for Naturalization
The minimum period of legal residence required for naturalization has been increased:
- from five to seven years for CPLP and EU citizens;
- five to ten years for all other foreign nationals.
This change concerns the time limit, not the right to citizenship. GV visa holders retain full rights to apply for citizenship after the required period has expired, once their residence history has been confirmed.
7. New cultural and civic knowledge requirements
In addition to the existing A2 level of Portuguese language proficiency, applicants must now demonstrate:
- knowledge of Portuguese culture, history, and national symbols, as well as
- understanding of civic duties, democratic values, and the rule of law.
Regulations on the new assessment will be issued by decree after the law is passed.
IAS expects the process to remain accessible, with tests focusing on basic knowledge rather than academic study, similar to those used in other EU countries.
8. Stricter rules and sanctions regarding criminal records
The new law introduces stricter criteria for selecting applicants with criminal convictions or compliance issues:
- The prison sentence for criminal offenses has been reduced from three to two years; and
- applicants included on United Nations sanctions lists will also be excluded from application.
These measures apply only to citizenship applications and do not affect Golden Visa or permanent residency applications, which retain their current requirements.
9. Calculation of Residence Period
Under the new law, the period of residency required for naturalization will be calculated from the date of issuance of the first residence card, not from the date of the initial application.
This change is particularly relevant for Golden Visa (GV) holders, as residence cards are often issued several months after approval, effectively delaying the start of the residency period required for citizenship. This measure has generated heated debate and could be amended or refined in the event of a presidential veto.
10. Entry into force
The proposal projects that the reform will enter into force immediately upon publication. However, applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed under the previous legal framework, maintaining the five-year rule.
In previous similar reforms, governments have often introduced transitional measures or amended the draft law based on comments from the president before its publication. It is therefore not surprising that similar changes were adopted in this case. These issues were also at the center of the political debate surrounding the reform, particularly during the parliamentary debates preceding its adoption.
III. Parliamentary Debates and Constitutional Prospects
During the parliamentary debate, Socialist Party (PS) Pedro Delgado Alves expressed several key concerns regarding the approved version of the law:
Constitutional Concerns: He warned that the new rules for loss of citizenship could create unconstitutional distinctions between citizens and could potentially be retroactive, undermining legal certainty.
Naturalization Criteria: He argued that the residency period for naturalization should be seven years instead of the proposed ten, noting that even this increase from the previous five years could be constitutionally questionable.
Transition to the New Rules: He advocated for the current version of the law to remain in effect for individuals whose applications are already pending, so as not to undermine legitimate expectations.
Procedural Fairness: He proposed that applications submitted by individuals who already hold residency permits at the time the new law comes into force continue to be processed under the current five-year rule.
The basis of the government's proposals: He warned that the government's proposed changes to both the Citizenship Act and the Foreigners Act are based on perceptions rather than evidence, suggesting that concerns about a "gravity effect" are not supported by data.
These comments highlight ongoing constitutional and practical issues that could influence the president's upcoming decision.
The law now awaits review by the President of the Republic, who may:
- ratify it immediately;
- return it to Parliament for revision; or
- refer it to the Constitutional Court.
From the IAS perspective, given the significant political divisions in Parliament and the intense public debate surrounding the new regulations, the President of the Republic will likely choose scenarios (ii) or (iii), either returning the law to Parliament for revision or referring it to the Constitutional Court. Similar to previous cases, such as the 2023 and 2025 reforms to the Foreigners Law, a parliamentary review or constitutional review may be requested to strengthen proportionality, protect legitimate expectations, and ensure the long-term constitutional coherence of the Citizenship Law.
Furthermore, given the political divisions in Parliament and the lack of broad consensus, the President is expected to approach the reform with caution. Legislation of such importance typically garners broad support among parties and society; however, this proposal has exposed deep political and ideological divisions.
As a result, the President may consider the reform to be incompletely consistent with constitutional principles and lacking the social legitimacy and stability expected of legislation intended to endure in Portuguese society. Therefore, he or she may decide to veto the law.
IV. Permanent Residence: A Crucial Advantage for Golden Visa Holders
As noted above regarding potential changes to citizenship law, one important advantage in this uncertainty is that Portugal's permanent residence system remains unchanged. It remains one of the most consistent and advantageous long-term residency options in Europe.
Five years after the issuance of their first residence card, Golden Visa holders can apply for a permanent residence permit (PR) under the same conditions. Currently, the average application processing time is approximately six months, and once PR is granted, investors can withdraw their investment without affecting their legal residency status. This marks the transition from an investment-based residence permit to a permanent, independent right of residence in Portugal.
As a rule, permanent residents must not be absent from Portugal for more than 24 consecutive months or 30 interpolated months within a three-year period. However, Golden Visa holders and their family members are exempt from this rule: they only need to spend seven days a year in Portugal to maintain permanent resident status.
This tax exemption remains one of the most distinctive features of the Portuguese residency regime, combining legal certainty with practical flexibility. It allows investors to maintain their residency, mobility, and European base without having to relocate or become a tax resident in Portugal.
Permanent residency grants the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, as well as visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and access to virtually all citizenship rights, with the exception of political participation. For many Golden Visa investors, especially from jurisdictions that restrict dual citizenship, permanent residency often becomes a definitive and secure status, guaranteeing long-term residency and access to Europe within a system based on stability and transparency.
V. Conclusion
The amendments represent a rethinking of the citizenship process, not a restriction on the Portuguese immigration model. They may lengthen the process, but they will not change its direction.
As the legislative process moves into the presidential phase, investors and residents should remain informed but remain calm.
It is important to note that the President of the Republic has historically taken a balanced and pragmatic approach to migration and citizenship issues, often softening restrictive bills passed by Parliament. For this reason, the IAS does not expect this to be the final version of the law. A constitutional review or presidential amendments will likely clarify the timing and details of the law's implementation before its publication.
At this stage, there is no need for individual action or case-by-case assessments. The information provided reflects the current legal and political situation, and no changes have been made to date. Following the publication of the President's decision and the final version of the law, we will publish an updated note detailing any confirmed changes.
Until then, clients and partners are advised to rely on this guidance as the most accurate information available and to await further updates as the legislative process progresses. NATLAN will continue to monitor the presidential proceedings and any proceedings before the Constitutional Court, promptly informing clients and partners and providing them with up-to-date information. This guarantees each applicant clarity, confidence, and trust in Portugal's long-term legal and investment system.
If you are planning to obtain a residence permit, invest in a country's economy, or purchase foreign real estate, we invite you to a consultation with our company. During a personal online meeting, we will thoroughly discuss your questions and develop a step-by-step action plan for you.