How to Acquire Portuguese Citizenship: A Complete 2025 Guide

Portugal has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for immigrants, digital nomads, and retirees alike. But for many people, moving to Portugal is just the beginning—the ultimate goal is acquiring Portuguese citizenship and all the benefits that come with it: EU freedom of movement, access to healthcare and education, and long-term security.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the different pathways to Portuguese citizenship, the requirements, timelines, and key steps in the process—whether you’re applying through naturalization, descent, marriage, or investment.

Why Consider Portuguese Citizenship?

Portuguese citizenship comes with numerous advantages, including:

• A Portuguese passport—one of the strongest in the world, with visa-free access to over 170 countries
• EU citizenship—live, work, and study freely in any EU country
• Greater security for long-term residents
• The option to pass citizenship on to children

It’s also worth noting that Portugal allows dual citizenship, meaning you don’t have to renounce your original nationality.

Main Paths to Portuguese Citizenship

There are several routes to becoming a citizen of Portugal. Let’s explore the most common options:

1. Citizenship by Naturalization (After 5 Years of Residency)

This is the most common path for immigrants, expats, and digital nomads.

Who qualifies?

• Foreign nationals who have legally resided in Portugal for at least 5 years

Requirements (as of 2025):

• Valid Portuguese residence permit during the 5-year period (temporary and/or permanent)
• Proof of basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level)
• Clean criminal record
• Integration into Portuguese society (shown through address, tax records, or community ties)

Note: This timeline was reduced from 6 years to 5 years in recent reforms, making Portugal one of the most accessible countries for EU citizenship.

2. Citizenship by Marriage or Civil Union

If you are married to, or in a recognized civil union with, a Portuguese citizen, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship.

Eligibility criteria:

• Must be in the relationship for at least 3 years
• Must show an effective connection to the Portuguese community (language knowledge, residence, or involvement in local life)

Important: You do not have to live in Portugal to qualify—but proving connection to the country helps strengthen your application.

3. Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)

You may already be entitled to Portuguese citizenship if you have Portuguese parents or grandparents.

• If at least one parent was Portuguese at the time of your birth, you are usually eligible.
• Grandchildren of Portuguese citizens can apply if they demonstrate:
  • Knowledge of Portuguese
  • Cultural connection to Portugal
  • Registration in Portugal’s civil registry

This path is common among Brazilian, Cape Verdean, and other Lusophone communities with family roots in Portugal.

4. Citizenship for Sephardic Jewish Descendant

Until 2022, Portugal allowed descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the Inquisition to apply for citizenship without residency. However, this route has since been restricted, and applicants must now demonstrate:

• Effective ties to Portugal
• Residency for 3 years
• Strong community involvement

If this path applies to you, consult a legal expert, as the rules continue to evolve.

5. Citizenship by Birth in Portugal (Limited Cases)

Being born in Portugal doesn’t automatically grant you citizenship, but some children born to foreign parents may qualify if:

• At least one parent has lived legally in Portugal for five years or more at the time of the child’s birth (2020 law reform)
• The child later attends school in Portugal and becomes integrated

This is particularly relevant for immigrant families raising children in Portugal.

Language Requirement (Portuguese A2 Level)

Most citizenship applicants must demonstrate basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2). You can prove this by:

• Taking the CIPLE exam through CAPLE (official Portuguese language testing center)
• Completing a recognized language course in Portugal
• Showing a school diploma issued in Portugal

Tip: Start studying early. Even basic conversational skills will help you integrate and navigate daily life more comfortably.

Required Documents

While the specific list may vary, most applicants will need:

• Valid passport or ID
• Portuguese residence permit
• Criminal background checks (from Portugal and your home country)
• Proof of legal residency in Portugal for 5 years
• Portuguese language certificate (A2 level)
• Birth certificate (translated and apostilled)
• Tax and social security number (NIF and NISS)
• Proof of integration (address, employment, tax returns)

All documents not in Portuguese must be translated and certified.

Fees

As of 2025, standard naturalization fees are:

• €250 for naturalization applications
• Additional costs for translations, apostilles, language exams, and legal support

Some categories (e.g. minor children or individuals born in Portugal) may qualify for fee exemptions.

Should You Hire a Lawyer?

While not required, working with a Portuguese immigration lawyer can help you:

• Determine eligibility
• Organize documents properly
• Submit a complete application
• Communicate with authorities if there are delays or issues
• Lawyers have access to an exclusive online platform to submit the paperwork, saving time and money on mail-in and in-person requests

Especially if you have a complex situation—multiple nationalities, prior rejections, or family reunification—it’s worth considering.

Final Thoughts

Portugal offers one of the most accessible paths to citizenship in the EU, thanks to its five-year residency rule, friendly policies, and openness to dual citizenship. Whether you’re already living in Portugal or just beginning your journey, knowing your options helps you plan smart and stay on track.

From naturalization to marriage, descent, and investment, Portugal’s pathways are as diverse as the people who choose to call it home.

Need help with your citizenship application?
We provide personalized guidance and legal support to help you secure Portuguese nationality with confidence. Contact us to learn more.