Portuguese Nationality Law Update

On 23rd July, The Portuguese parliament has approved the amendments to the Law of Nationality - Law 37/81 of 3rd October that simplify the process for acquiring Portuguese nationality by children of those who hold residency permits, grandchildren and for spouses of Portuguese citizens.

Children

For the children to be granted Portuguese Nationality, the parents only have to hold a residency permit in the country for one year.

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Grandchildren

Regarding grandchildren, the second-degree descendants, the need to show an effective connection to Portugal can now be proven through knowledge of the Portuguese language. This means that it is no longer necessary to provide evidence of ties with Portugal or the existence of regular contacts with the country.

Spouses

Another positive change is related to the citizens’ spouses. Previously, the law established that a partner could only apply for Portuguese citizenship after being married for 3 years or in a civil union or if they had relevant ties with Portugal. Now, with the new changes, the minimum period of 3 years is suspended in case the couple has Portuguese nationality children.

In case the marriage lasts for more than 6 years or if the couple has children in common that have Portuguese nationality, these applicants can still ask for citizenship.

The Golden Visa programme which is an avenue to be granted Portuguese citizenship has also experienced amendments. Applicants will now get their initial visa for two years instead of one, there will then be 2 further renewals of 2 years each, giving a total of 6 years free travel across the Schengen. Learn more about these changes here.

If you’d like to know how to get Portuguese Nationality read more here.