Nationality Law: Time for Nationality Determination Begins from Date of Resident Card Application

Attention Immigrants in Portugal: Your Path to Citizenship Just Got Easier

Send Your Query Now: Portugal Immigration Affair

Portugal's Citizenship Law has been officially ratified and made public in the Diário da República. Following a ruling by the Portuguese Constitutional Court, the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, gave his approval to the amended Portuguese Citizenship Law.

This recent alteration is poised to greatly benefit numerous immigrants residing in Portugal. In mid-January, the Portuguese Parliament passed an amendment to Article 15 of the Portuguese Nationality Law, which redefines the calculation of residency periods for nationality applications. The amendment, promulgated on February 24th, now includes the time elapsed since the submission of the temporary residence permit application as part of the residency period considered for nationality requests.

The precise wording of the amendment as published in the Diário da República states:

"For the purposes of counting legal residence periods provided for in this law, the time elapsed from the moment the temporary residence permit was requested shall also be considered, provided that it will be granted.."

This change aims to facilitate the naturalization process for immigrants by allowing the period since the submission of their residence application to count towards the required residency period of at least five years. This adjustment is particularly significant for those individuals who have been awaiting the issuance of their residence permit before initiating the official countdown toward their eligibility for Portuguese nationality.

Have Questions or Need Assistance? We're Here to Help You Navigate the Pathway to Portuguese Citizenship. Reach Out Today

Portugal Immigration Affair

Updates to Portugal's "Nationality Law": Important changes in the rules for gaining citizenship.

 Revisions in Calculating Residence Time for Nationality Requests in Portugal

A significant change involves the way the period of residence in Portugal is counted for nationality applications based on residence time. Previously, the 5-year legal residence requirement was calculated from obtaining the residence permit. Now, it is calculated from the permit application, acknowledging the waiting time for approval. This aims to address delays in processing and correct potential injustices. For instance, an investor applying for a Golden Visa in 2019 and receiving the permit in 2021 due to the pandemic can now apply for nationality in 2024, considering the 5-year count from the initial permit application.

These amendments to the Nationality Law mark a substantial advancement in gaining citizenship in Portugal. By adapting procedures and criteria, the Parliament aims to align the legislation with current challenges, providing a more inclusive path for those seeking Portuguese nationality.

The approved changes, dated January 5th, are pending official documentation publication. It is anticipated that the document will be published by the end of January, with the changes taking effect in early February.

For specific guidance on how these recent changes impact citizenship acquisition processes in Portugal, consulting with Portugal Immigration Affair and nationality matters is recommended.

Portugal Immigration Affair

 

Your Easy Guide to Becoming a Portuguese Citizen

After experiencing the allure of Portugal, the idea of making it your permanent residence or obtaining Portuguese citizenship may become enticing. Thankfully, there are multiple avenues to explore in achieving this, and Portugal Immigration Affair is ready to assist you throughout the process.

Portugal's citizenship acquisition process stands out for its straightforwardness, transparent requirements, and a more manageable timeline compared to many other European countries.

Portugal Immigration Affair

Eligibility: Both EU/EFTA citizens and non-EU/EFTA citizens are eligible to acquire Portuguese citizenship. The process is somewhat easier for EU/EFTA citizens. The ease depends on individual situations, visa status, and the purpose of stay in Portugal. Depending on your circumstances, visa type, and reason for being in Portugal, there are various paths to attain Portuguese citizenship and a passport.

Assessment Authority: The Portuguese Ministry of Justice, specifically the Instituto dos Registos e do Notoriado – IRN, will evaluate and assess your citizenship application.

Benefits of obtaining citizenship in Portugal?

1. Property Rights: Gain the right to own property in Portugal.
2. Work and Study Freedom: Work and study without the need for a visa.
3. Social Security Benefits: Access to the pension and social security system.
4. Full Integration: Become an integral part of Portugal and the broader European community.
5. Global Travel: Enjoy visa-free travel to various countries worldwide.
6. Political Engagement: Exercise voting rights in Portuguese elections and referendums.
7. EU Residency: Live, work, and retire in any EU member state with Portuguese citizenship.

 Application Fee: The authority cost to apply for Portuguese citizenship is 250 EUR.

 Application Process: The application can now be completed online with the help of an advocate and Portugal Immigration Affair is ready to assist you throughout the process.

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Citizenship Requirement: In most cases, eligibility for Portuguese citizenship arises after six years of residence in Portugal. However, Portuguese law provides various routes to obtain citizenship, including:

1. By origin
2. By marriage or partnership
3. By naturalization
4. By adoption
5. By investments
6. By descent from Sephardic Jews
7. By being a citizen of former Portuguese colonies

Your Path to Portuguese Citizenship: A Step-by-Step Journey

The increasing trend of individuals choosing Portuguese citizenship is fueled by a combination of factors. Portugal's passport offers visa-free travel to numerous countries, providing unparalleled global mobility. As an EU member state, Portuguese citizenship grants access to a range of rights and opportunities within the European Union. The Golden Visa program, along with the country's political stability, high quality of life, and cultural appeal, makes Portugal an attractive destination. This multifaceted appeal, blending practical advantages with lifestyle benefits, has led to a growing number of people opting to become Portuguese citizens