Portugal Approves New Nationality Law: What You Need to Know
- INLIS Consulting
- 9 minutes ago
- 3 min read
The Portuguese government has officially approved the New Nationality Law, marking one of the most significant changes to citizenship rules in recent years. This updated legislation will affect thousands of immigrants, digital nomads, expats, and foreign families who are planning to acquire Portuguese citizenship.
What Is the New Nationality Law?
The New Nationality Law introduces stricter eligibility criteria for individuals wishing to obtain Portuguese citizenship. It changes the minimum required years of residence, adds new cultural and language requirements, and clarifies rules for children born in Portugal to foreign parents.
This reform is designed to ensure that those who seek Portuguese citizenship demonstrate stronger integration into Portuguese society.
Key Changes Introduced by the New Nationality Law
1. Longer Residence Requirement
The general residency requirement has increased to 10 years of legal residence in Portugal.
Citizens from Portuguese-speaking countries and European Union citizens will be eligible after 7 years of residence.
2. Language and Cultural Knowledge Requirement
Applicants must now demonstrate sufficient knowledge of:
Portuguese language
Portuguese history
National symbols and civic structure
This may involve passing a standardized test or submitting an official certificate.
3. Good Conduct Criteria
Citizenship will be denied to anyone who has received a final criminal conviction resulting in a prison sentence of two years or more. This reinforces the requirement of proven good moral character.
4. Changes for Children Born in Portugal
Children born in Portugal will only automatically qualify for nationality if at least one parent has legally resided in the country for five consecutive years.
The New Nationality Law eliminates automatic citizenship for children born to foreign parents who are living in Portugal without legal residence.
5. Revocation of Citizenship for Fraud
The government now has the authority to revoke nationality if it is proven that citizenship was acquired through fraudulent means.
Who Is Affected by the New Nationality Law?
Foreign Residents and Expats Living in Portugal
If you are planning to apply for Portuguese nationality, you may now need to live in the country longer than before and meet more stringent criteria.
EU Nationals and Citizens of Portuguese-Speaking Countries
While they benefit from a shorter residency requirement of 7 years, the new cultural and language requirements still apply.
Digital Nomads, Remote Workers, and Freelancers
Those living in Portugal under temporary visas must ensure they transition to legal residence permits to start counting years toward citizenship.
Families with Children Born in Portugal
Children born in Portugal will only qualify if the parents meet the new legal residence requirements.
Practical Implications of the New Nationality Law
Residency Planning Is Now More Important Than Ever
Applicants must ensure their stay in Portugal is properly documented under a valid residence permit.
Integration Into Portuguese Society Will Be Evaluated
Learning the Portuguese language and understanding the culture is now mandatory.
Legal Compliance Is Critical
Any legal irregularities, unpaid taxes, or immigration issues can delay or disqualify your eligibility.
How to Prepare for the New Nationality Law
Here are key recommendations to ensure your pathway to Portuguese citizenship remains secure:
1. Maintain Legal Residency
Keep your residence permit valid and renew it on time.
2. Begin Learning Portuguese
Enroll in certified language courses to prepare for the citizenship test.
3. Keep Clean Tax and Criminal Record
Ensure that you are compliant with tax requirements and have no criminal convictions.
4. Confirm Your Residency Years
Check if your existing years of residence fall under the previous law or the new one. Timing may affect your eligibility.
5. Seek Professional Guidance
Navigating citizenship rules can be complex. Working with a legal or immigration expert ensures you don’t make costly mistakes.
Impact of the New Nationality Law on Future Citizens
Category | Previous Rule | New Nationality Law Requirement |
General Residency | 5 years | 10 years |
EU & Portuguese-Speaking Citizens | 5 years | 7 years |
Language Requirement | Basic Portuguese A2 | Increased emphasis on language & culture |
Children Born in Portugal | Automatic if parents reside legally | Only if a parent has 5+ years of legal residence |
Citizenship Revocation | Limited | Can be revoked in cases of fraud |
Final Thoughts
The New Nationality Law fundamentally changes the path to becoming a Portuguese citizen. While it introduces more stringent requirements, it also offers a clear and structured process for those who truly wish to integrate and build a future in Portugal.
Now is the time to act if you are planning to apply for citizenship. Ensuring compliance today will make all the difference in your success tomorrow.
Need Help Navigating the New Nationality Law?
If you are unsure how this law affects your case, or if you want professional guidance on how to secure residency or citizenship in Portugal, our team at INLIS Consulting is here to help.