Portugal Announces New Residency Requirements for Citizenship

Portugal has announced upcoming changes to its citizenship law, which may increase the required residency period for applications to 7 to 10 years. This reform was passed by the Council of Ministers in June 2025 and is expected to be enacted soon, pending parliamentary approval.

The new timeline depends on the applicant’s country of origin:

• 7 years for nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries
• 10 years for all other applicants

In addition, the residency period will now count from the date the residence permit is issued, rather than the date of initial application.

Updated Conditions for Children Born to Foreign Nationals

The changes also impact children born in Portugal to foreign residents. Portuguese nationality will no longer be granted automatically at birth. Instead, parents must have lived legally in the country for at least three years and must formally request citizenship for their child.

New requirements have also been introduced for naturalization applicants, who must now:

• Show basic knowledge of Portuguese language and culture
• Pass an assessment covering rights and responsibilities
• Sign a declaration of commitment to Portugal’s democratic principles

These reforms are meant to ensure a stronger sense of national belonging and clearer integration into the Portuguese community.