How to Become a Portuguese Citizen in 2025

Portugal continues to be one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for expats, not only for its quality of life and mild climate, but also for its accessible pathway to citizenship. Whether you’re already living in Portugal or just beginning your journey, understanding the legal requirements for becoming a Portuguese citizen is essential.

As of 2025, the process remains stable and predictable, with clear rules around residency, language, and documentation. But navigating these requirements correctly is key to avoiding delays or rejection.

In this guide, Lexidy’s immigration lawyers outline everything you need to know about how to become a Portuguese citizen, from eligibility and residency rules to language exams, timelines, and the benefits of dual nationality.

Why Become a Portuguese Citizen?

Portuguese citizenship offers a gateway to long-term security, freedom of movement, and full participation in one of Europe’s most stable democracies. For many expats, it marks the final step in building a permanent life in Portugal.

Here are the key benefits:

1. EU Citizenship: Portuguese citizens gain full rights to live, work, and travel across the European Union, including access to healthcare, education, and job markets in all 27 member states.
2. Permanent Security: Citizenship eliminates the need to renew residence permits or worry about visa renewals, income thresholds, or changes in immigration laws.
3. Family Rights: Portuguese citizens can pass their nationality on to children and, in some cases, apply for family reunification under more favorable terms. (However, this is not automatic nor guaranteed in all cases.)
4. Dual Citizenship: Portugal allows dual nationality, meaning you can retain your original citizenship while gaining the benefits of a Portuguese passport.
5. Civic Participation: Citizens can vote in national and EU elections, giving you a voice in shaping the country’s future.

Who Qualifies for Portuguese Citizenship?

While the benefits of Portuguese citizenship are significant, the path to obtaining it requires careful attention. There are several legal routes to becoming a Portuguese citizen, each with its own conditions:

• Naturalization (after legal residency)
• Descent (through Portuguese parents or grandparents)
• Marriage or Civil Union with a Portuguese citizen
• Adoption by a Portuguese citizen
• Sephardic Jewish Ancestry
• Exceptional Service or Connection to Portugal

Each pathway involves specific requirements and documentation, which must be followed closely to avoid delays or rejection. 

Requirements for Getting Portuguese Citizenship in 2025?

Portuguese citizenship can be obtained through a variety of legal pathways, each designed for different life circumstances. Whether you’ve lived in Portugal for years, have family roots in the country, or are married to a Portuguese citizen, there is a route available, but each comes with its own conditions and legal steps.

Here’s a breakdown of the main requirements for each pathway:

1. Citizenship by Naturalization (Residency Route)

This is the most common path for non-EU nationals living in Portugal. If you’ve held legal residency for several years, you may qualify to apply for citizenship through naturalization.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years of legal residency in Portugal (continuous or cumulative)
• A2-level Portuguese language proficiency (CIPLE exam)
• Clean criminal record
• Civil records (birth certificate, marital status) translated and registered in Portugal

2. Citizenship by Descent

If you have a Portuguese parent or grandparent, you may already be entitled to citizenship by origin. This route is often quicker and doesn’t require a minimum residency period in Portugal.

Requirements:

• Official documents proving the family relationship (birth/marriage certificates)
• Civil registration of the Portuguese ancestor (if not already done)
• For grandchildren of Portuguese citizens:
  • Proof of an effective connection to Portugal (e.g. language knowledge, regular visits, cultural or social ties)
  • Clean criminal record

3. Citizenship by Marriage or Civil Union

Foreign nationals married to or in a civil partnership with a Portuguese citizen can apply for citizenship, provided certain conditions are met.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of marriage or legally registered cohabitation
• Marriage or partnership must be registered in Portugal
• Evidence of connection to the Portuguese community (e.g. shared children, language ability, joint residence)
• A2-level Portuguese may be required
• Clean criminal record

4. Citizenship by Adoption

Minors adopted by a Portuguese citizen are generally entitled to citizenship under the following circumstances.

Requirements:

• Legal adoption of the minor under Portuguese jurisdiction
• Civil registration of the adoption in Portugal

5. Citizenship through Sephardic Jewish Ancestry

Portugal has historically offered citizenship to descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the 15th century. However, this route is now significantly limited and subject to stricter rules.

Requirements:

• Genealogical documentation proving Sephardic Jewish descent from Portugal
• Evidence of a current and lasting connection to Portugal (e.g. property, travel, community involvement)
• Clean criminal record
• Have legally resided in Portuguese territory for a period of at least three years, whether consecutive or non-consecutive

6. Citizenship by Exceptional Service or Connection to Portugal

In rare and exceptional cases, the Portuguese government may grant citizenship to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country in areas like science, culture, or humanitarian work.

Requirements:

• Documented evidence of outstanding service or value to Portugal
• Strong and demonstrable connection to the country
• Case-by-case evaluation by the Ministry of Justice
• No standard language or residency requirement, but solid supporting evidence is essential
• Clean criminal record

How to Apply for Portuguese Citizenship: Step-by-Step Process

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to prepare and submit your citizenship application. While the documentation and timeline may vary slightly depending on the route you’re applying through, the core process is generally the same across most categories.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process in 2025:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare all the documents relevant to your citizenship pathway. These may include:

• Valid passport or national ID (if you are a citizen of an EU Member State)
• Birth certificate (apostilled and translated, if applicable)
• Marriage or adoption certificates (if applying through family)
• Criminal background checks from Portugal and your home country
• Portuguese language certificate (A2 level, typically CIPLE exam)
• Proof of legal residence or family connection
• Documents demonstrating ties to Portugal (if required)

All foreign documents must be translated into Portuguese and legalized with an apostille.

Step 2: Submit Application & Pay the Fee

Applications can be submitted in person or by a legal representative at:

• The IRN (Instituto dos Registos e Notariado) office in Portugal
• A Portuguese Consulate if applying from abroad

Applications may also be submitted via a lawyer with power of attorney. As of 2025, the government fee to apply for Portuguese citizenship varies depending on the nationality request In cases of nationality by descent, as a child or grandchild of Portuguese citizens, the fee is €175.

Step 3: Wait for Review and Approval

Processing times vary, but most applications take up to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case and the route you apply through. You may be contacted for additional information or clarification during this time.

Step 4: Final Registration and Citizenship Certificate

Once approved, you’ll receive your Portuguese birth certificate, after which you may apply for your Portuguese citizen card, followed by your passport.

How Long Does the Portuguese Citizenship Process Take?

Processing times for Portuguese citizenship vary depending on your specific situation and the route you apply through. On average, most applications take several months to over a year, with more complex cases potentially requiring longer.

Tips to Avoid Application Delays

1. Ensure all documents are complete, translated, and legalized (apostilled where required).
2. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the authorities.
3. Track your application status using the relevant IRN or consular portal, if available.

Pro Tip: Working with an experienced legal team can help streamline the process, reduce errors, and avoid unnecessary delays. Contact us below to get a free consultation.

Can You Have Dual Citizenship with Portugal?

Yes, Portugal allows dual citizenship. This means that if you become a Portuguese citizen, you’re not required to give up your original nationality. Portuguese law does not impose restrictions on holding multiple nationalities, making it possible to fully integrate into Portuguese society while maintaining ties to your country of origin.

However, it’s important to check the rules of your home country. While Portugal permits dual citizenship, not all countries do. Some may require you to renounce your original nationality when acquiring another. Always verify your home country’s position on dual nationality before applying.

How a Legal Expert Can Help With Getting Citizenship in Portugal

Applying for Portuguese citizenship involves legal paperwork, precise timelines, and strict documentation rules. Here’s how working with a lawyer can simplify the process and increase your chances of approval:

1. Get Clear Answers on Your Eligibility

A lawyer will analyze your situation and confirm the best path to citizenship based on your residency, ancestry, or family ties, so you don’t waste time on the wrong route.

2. Register and Prepare Your Documents Correctly

Legal experts manage the entire documentation process, from translations and apostilles to civil registry filings, ensuring everything is complete and valid before submission.

3. Avoid Delays and Costly Mistakes

Missing information or minor errors can derail your application. A lawyer ensures your file meets all legal requirements and is submitted correctly the first time.

4. Manage the Process Without Being in Portugal

If you’re applying from abroad, your lawyer can act on your behalf through power of attorney, saving you trips and keeping your case moving with local support.

Want to learn more about the citizenship process? Visit our Portuguese Citizenship service page or fill out the form below to book a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Become a Portuguese Citizen

Can I apply after 5 years of residency?

Yes. As of 2025, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of legal residence, provided you meet other requirements such as language proficiency and a clean criminal record. This applies to most residency permit holders, including those on the D7 or Digital Nomad visas.

Do I need to give up my original nationality?

No. Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your original nationality when becoming a Portuguese citizen. However, always check whether your home country permits dual citizenship, as not all countries do.

What’s the cost of the application?

The standard government fee is €250 for most citizenship applications submitted in 2025. Additional costs may apply for document translations, apostilles, language exams, and legal assistance.

Can children apply with me?

It depends on the legal grounds for acquiring nationality.

• If the application is based on Portuguese ancestry (such as through grandparents), it’s generally possible for minors to apply at the same time as a parent.
• However, if the request is based on legal residency, a joint application with children is not permitted.

In all cases, children’s documents must be translated, legalized, and meet Portuguese legal requirements.

What if I’ve lived in Portugal under a visa?

If your stay in Portugal was under a valid residence permit, and you’ve completed at least 5 years of legal residence, you may qualify to apply for citizenship. Time spent under short-term or tourist visas does not count toward the required residency period.

Start Your Portuguese Citizenship Journey with Clarity

Portuguese citizenship offers more than just a passport. It provides long-term security, access to the EU, and the freedom to fully establish your life in Portugal. Whether you qualify through residency, descent, or family, the key is understanding the process and meeting the requirements with confidence.

While the journey can seem complex, the right legal guidance can make all the difference. By confirming your eligibility, preparing accurate documentation, and following the correct steps, you can avoid delays and move forward with peace of mind.

Whether you’re ready to move forward or just exploring your options, you’ll find everything you need on our Portuguese Citizenship service page, or simply fill out the form below to speak with our team.