The Portuguese Parliament has approved a new Citizenship Law introducing changes to how foreign residents, investors, and families may obtain Portuguese nationality. Below is a summary of the main updates.

    1. Main Changes

• Residence period extended: 7 years for EU and Portuguese-speaking nationals; 10 years for others.

• New cultural and civic tests: Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the Portuguese language, history, culture, national symbols, and civic values.

• Financial requirements: Proof of sufficient means without relying on public assistance.

• Stricter good-conduct rules: No criminal convictions of two years or more, and no security risks or sanctions.

• Declaration of democratic principles: Applicants must formally commit to constitutional and democratic values.

    2. Category-Specific Changes

• Children born in Portugal: At least one parent must have 5 years of legal residence.

• Grandchildren of Portuguese nationals: Language and cultural knowledge now required.

• Marriage/partnership route: Still available, but subject to new security and criminal-record rules.

• Sephardic naturalisation: The special regime will end upon publication of the new law.

    3. Residence Period Calculation

Residence time will now count from the issuance date of the first residence permit, not from the application date—potentially delaying eligibility for many residents, including Golden Visa holders.

    4. Transitional Rules

• The law enters into force immediately upon publication.

• Applications submitted beforehand will follow the current 5-year rule.

• Detailed regulations will be issued within 90 days.

    5. Loss of Nationality

A new provision introduces the possibility of loss of nationality as an ancillary penalty for serious criminal convictions, pending further regulation.

    6. Constitutional Review

The legislation now awaits the President’s decision. He may promulgate the law, return it to Parliament, or request a Constitutional Court review due to raised concerns regarding proportionality and lack of transitional protections.

    7. Impact on Golden Visa Holders

The Golden Visa and Permanent Residency regimes remain unchanged.
Golden Visa investors may still obtain Permanent Residency after 5 years from the issuance of their first card, without additional investment or stay requirements.

    8. Next Steps

No immediate action is required until the President’s decision and the publication of the final text. SjF Immigration and Investment will continue to monitor developments and provide updates once the final law and corresponding regulations are released.

    Final Note