Requirements for Obtaining Portuguese Nationality

Obtaining Portuguese nationality is becoming increasingly popular among foreigners who decide to settle in Portugal or simply enjoy the benefits of being a Portuguese citizen. In this article, we present the necessary requirements for obtaining Portuguese nationality.

What are the requirements?

There are several ways to obtain Portuguese nationality, with the most common being naturalization and marriage to a Portuguese citizen. Below are the requirements for each of these options.

1. Naturalization

To obtain Portuguese nationality through naturalization, the following requirements must be met:

1. Legal residence in Portugal for at least 5 years.
2. Basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.
3. No criminal record.
4. No threat to national security.
5. Proof of sufficient means of subsistence.

It's important to note that there are certain exceptions to these requirements, such as for descendants of Portuguese nationals or individuals with historical ties to Portugal.

2. Marriage to a Portuguese Citizen

Another option to obtain Portuguese nationality is through marriage to a Portuguese citizen. The requirements in this case are:

1. Marriage to a Portuguese citizen for at least 3 years.
2. Legal residence in Portugal for at least 3 years.
3. Basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.
4. No criminal record.
5. No threat to national security.
6. Proof of sufficient means of subsistence.

3. Descendants

To obtain Portuguese nationality by descent, the following requirements must be met:

1. Be a descendant of a Portuguese citizen: This can be through bloodline (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc.) or through marriage, as mentioned earlier (spouse of a Portuguese citizen).
2. Demonstrate an effective connection with the Portuguese community: This can be shown through the Portuguese language, culture, residence in Portugal, or ownership of property in Portugal.
3. Good conduct: The applicant must have no criminal record and must demonstrate that they respect laws and norms.
4. Be of legal age: The applicant must be over 18 years old.
5. Submit the necessary documentation: This includes the birth certificate of the Portuguese ancestor, documents proving the connection to the Portuguese community, and other documents that may be required by Portuguese authorities.

We Are Your Best Ally

If you're interested in obtaining Portuguese nationality, it's important to meet all the necessary requirements. For more information and guidance, we recommend contacting a lawyer specialized in immigration law.

In summary, to obtain Portuguese nationality, certain requirements must be fulfilled, whether through naturalization, marriage to a Portuguese citizen, or by descent. If you meet these requirements and are interested in becoming a Portuguese citizen, don't hesitate to contact us to ensure a legal and smooth process. Ls Consulting becomes your best ally for this journey.