On June 23, 2025, the Portuguese Government unveiled comprehensive changes to Portugal’s Nationality Law framework, signalling a shift toward more stringent requirements for naturalisation and other nationality pathways. These measures, introduced with an emphasis on regulatory rigour and national cohesion, are set to impact individuals seeking Portuguese citizenship through various channels.
As a trusted partner in immigration and nationality matters, Madeira Corporate Services (MCS) outlines the key proposed changes and their implications below.
The Proposed Changes to Portugal’s Nationality Law
1. Stricter Requirements for Naturalisation
The conditions for acquiring Portuguese nationality by naturalisation will become more demanding:
- Increased Residency Requirement: Legal residence of 7 or 10 years, depending on the applicant’s country of origin.
- Integration Criteria: Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the Portuguese language, culture, political system, and democratic values.
- Civic Commitment: A solemn declaration affirming adherence to the principles of the Portuguese Republic will be mandatory.
- Security and Criminal Background Checks: Applicants must have no serious criminal convictions or pose any threat to national security.
2. Children of Foreign Nationals Born in Portugal
Children born in Portugal to foreign parents will only acquire Portuguese nationality at birth if:
- At least one parent has legally resided in Portugal for three or more years, and
- A formal declaration expresses the desire for the child to be Portuguese.
3. Nationality Through Ancestry Limited
Only individuals with Portuguese great-grandparents (third-degree direct line) may apply and prove an effective connection to Portugal. The Sephardic Jewish ancestry regime is being terminated for new applications, ending a program that had gained significant traction in recent years.
4. Loss of Nationality
A new provision will allow for the revocation of nationality in severe cases:
- It applies to naturalised citizens with dual nationality within 10 years of acquisition.
- Revocation is possible upon conviction for serious crimes against persons or the State, with a sentence of 5 years or more in prison. This is a judicial measure, not automatic, and subject to proportionality analysis.
5. Other Key Measures
- CPLP (Community of Portuguese Language Countries) visa processes will now require security vetting, and residence permits cannot be obtained via tourist visas or visa exemption.
- Family reunification will require 2 years of legal residence, new housing and subsistence criteria, and mandatory integration measures such as language and civic education.
- Residence permits currently valid until June 30, 2025, are automatically extended to October 15, 2025, with proof of renewal status to be provided by AIMA, I.P.
How MCS Can Help
These proposed reforms, yet to be discussed and approved in parliament, these changes to Portugal’s nationality law reflect a fundamental shift in how the Portuguese and their democratically elected officials view nationality and integration. Whether you are planning to apply for Portuguese citizenship or are already navigating immigration processes, it is vital to understand how these changes might affect your plans. At Madeira Corporate Services, our team is ready to guide you through the new legal landscape and help you plan accordingly. We offer dedicated citizenship application services and legal advice to ensure compliance and success.
To better understand your eligibility or strategise your next steps, we invite you to book an online consultation via our website by clicking the “Book a meeting” button in the top right corner.
The founding of Madeira Corporate Services dates back to 1996. MCS started as a corporate service provider in the Madeira International Business Center and rapidly became a leading management company… Read more
