HOW TO OBTAIN PORTUGUESE NATIONALITY IN 2025

How to Obtain Portuguese Nationality in 2025

How to Obtain Portuguese Nationality in 2025

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Portugal is an attractive destination for many due to its rich history, high quality of life, and access to the European Union. Obtaining Portuguese nationality offers numerous benefits, including visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, access to social services, and the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU.

In 2025, Portugal continues to provide several pathways to nationality, including descent, birth, marriage, naturalization, and investment. This guide outlines the various routes, requirements, and application procedures to help you successfully acquire Portuguese nationality.

Ways to Obtain Portuguese Nationality


1. Nationality by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)


Portugal allows individuals with Portuguese ancestors to claim nationality. If at least one of your parents or grandparents was a Portuguese citizen, you may be eligible.

Requirements:

  • copyright proving the lineage.

  • Proof that your Portuguese ancestor did not renounce their nationality.

  • Official application through the Portuguese Civil Registry Office (Conservatória dos Registos Centrais).


2. Nationality by Birth (Jus Soli)


Children born in Portugal can obtain nationality under specific conditions. Portugal does not grant automatic citizenship by birth alone, but recent legal updates have made it easier.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • At least one parent must have legally resided in Portugal for one year at the time of birth.

  • If parents are undocumented, the child may still qualify under special conditions.


3. Nationality by Marriage or Civil Union


Foreign spouses of Portuguese citizens can apply for nationality after three years of marriage or civil partnership, provided they can demonstrate a genuine connection to Portugal.

Key Requirements:

  • Proof of legal marriage or civil union.

  • Evidence of ties to Portugal (e.g., residence, language skills).

  • No criminal record in Portugal.


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4. Nationality by Naturalization


For foreigners who have legally resided in Portugal, naturalization is one of the most common paths to citizenship. In 2025, the Portuguese nationality law requires only five years of legal residency, making it one of the fastest naturalization processes in Europe.

Requirements:

  • Proof of legal residence in Portugal for at least five consecutive years.

  • A basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level).

  • No serious criminal record (sentences of three years or more may disqualify applicants).

  • Demonstrated ties to Portuguese society (e.g., employment, property, or community involvement).


The application is submitted through the Institute of Registries and Notary (IRN), and processing times can vary.

5. Nationality for Sephardic Jews (Limited Changes in 2025)


Since 2015, Portugal has granted nationality to descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the 15th century Inquisition. However, recent changes have tightened eligibility criteria to prevent abuse of the law.

New Requirements in 2025:

  • Applicants must provide documented evidence of direct ancestry from a Portuguese Sephardic community.

  • Proof of a real connection to Portugal (e.g., speaking Portuguese, living in Portugal, or being involved in Portuguese Jewish communities).

  • Applications are reviewed by the Portuguese Jewish Community before submission.


Due to these restrictions, this pathway is now more challenging. Alternative options such as investment or residency may be preferable.

6. Nationality for Investors (Golden Visa & Residency by Investment)


Portugal’s Golden Visa program offers a fast-track route to residency, which can lead to nationality. Although the program has undergone changes, it remains an attractive option for investors.

Investment Options in 2025:

  • €500,000 investment in research or technology.

  • €250,000 donation to cultural or heritage projects.

  • Creating at least 10 jobs in Portugal.


After maintaining five years of residency under the Golden Visa, investors can apply for nationality. Unlike other countries, Portugal does not require full-time residence, only minimal stay requirements.

 

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