Portuguese Citizenship: Your Gateway to EU Freedom
After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship and gain full EU rights. Keep your original citizenship, access 188+ countries visa-free, and enjoy one of the world's most powerful passports.
Pathways to Portuguese Citizenship
Through Residency (Most Common)
- 5 years of legal residence in Portugal
- A2 level Portuguese language certificate
- No serious criminal record
- Demonstrated ties to Portugal
- Tax residency in Portugal
- Proof of income/employment
Through Marriage
- Married to Portuguese citizen for 3+ years
- A2 level Portuguese language
- No criminal record
- Demonstrated connection to Portugal
- Proof of marital relationship
Through Descent/Ancestry
- Portuguese parent or grandparent
- Birth certificates proving lineage
- No language requirement
- Application through consulate
- Proof of Portuguese ancestry
Benefits of Portuguese Citizenship
One of the world's most valuable citizenships
Citizenship Application Process
From eligibility to Portuguese passport in 8 steps
Verify Eligibility
1 dayConfirm you meet 5-year residency and Portuguese language requirements
Obtain Language Certificate
1-2 monthsPass A2 Portuguese exam at approved testing center
Gather Documents
2-4 weeksBirth certificate, residence permits, tax documents, criminal record
Submit Application
1 dayApply at IRN (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado) or consulate
Pay Fees
1 dayApplication fee €250 + document costs
Interview (if required)
VariesSome applicants may need to attend citizenship interview
Wait for Decision
6-12 monthsIRN reviews application and supporting documents
Receive Portuguese Passport
2-4 weeksAfter approval, apply for Portuguese passport
Total Timeline: 6-12 months after meeting 5-year residency requirement
Citizenship Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to give up my current citizenship?+
No. Portugal allows dual citizenship. You can keep your original citizenship while becoming Portuguese.
How difficult is the A2 Portuguese test?+
A2 is basic conversational Portuguese. You should be able to introduce yourself, order food, and discuss everyday topics. Preparation courses are available.
Can I count time before getting my residence permit?+
Only time with legal residence permits counts. Tourist stays do not count toward the 5-year requirement.
What happens if my application is rejected?+
You can appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the rejection reasons. Common reasons include insufficient language skills or incomplete documentation.
Can my children get citizenship automatically?+
Children born in Portugal to foreign residents can apply for citizenship. Children born abroad to Portuguese citizens automatically qualify.
How long is the Portuguese passport valid?+
Portuguese passports are valid for 5 years (adults) or 2 years (minors under 4). Renewal is straightforward.
Success Stories
Real experiences from people who successfully obtained their Portugal residency
Sarah Mitchell
From USA to Lisbon
"The entire process was so smooth! I was nervous about moving to Portugal, but the team connected me with an excellent lawyer who guided me through every step. My D7 visa was approved in just 6 weeks. Now I'm living my dream retirement in Lisbon!"
Marcus Chen
From Singapore to Porto
"As a software developer, the D8 digital nomad visa was perfect for me. The assessment was incredibly thorough and I received personalized advice within 24 hours as promised. The lawyer they recommended made everything painless. Highly recommended!"
Emma & James Thompson
From UK to Algarve
"We relocated with our two children and the family reunification process was handled beautifully. The team understood our unique situation and connected us with a lawyer who specialized in families. We got our residence cards in 3 months!"
Rafael Santos
From Brazil to Lisbon
"Starting my tech company in Portugal seemed overwhelming, but this service made it possible. They connected me with lawyers who understood startup visas and helped me navigate the incubator requirements. My visa was approved and my business is thriving!"
Yuki Tanaka
From Japan to Cascais
"The 24-hour assessment was genuine! I submitted my information on Monday evening and received a detailed roadmap by Tuesday afternoon. The lawyer explained everything in perfect English and helped me gather all documents efficiently."
Hans & Ingrid Weber
From Germany to Madeira
"We wanted to retire somewhere with great weather and lower costs. Portugal was perfect! The service was professional, transparent about all costs, and the lawyer they recommended was excellent. We've been in Madeira for 6 months and couldn't be happier."
Join thousands of successful applicants who trusted us with their Portugal residency journey
Ready to Start Your Journey to Portuguese Citizenship?
First step: Get your Portugal residence permit. Book a free consultation to explore D7, D8, or Golden Visa options.