Naturalization Citizenship: Grounds, How to Obtain, Tips

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Portugal continues to attract many people with its mild climate, rich culture, and growing economic opportunities. For many who choose this country to live in, obtaining Portuguese citizenship through naturalization becomes an important step, opening doors to new perspectives and full participation in public life. However, like in any other EU country, the process has its own peculiarities and strict requirements. In this article, we will examine in detail how everything is arranged, what conditions need to be met, and what stages need to be completed on the path to obtaining the desired passport.

On what grounds is citizenship granted through naturalization in Portugal

Obtaining citizenship through naturalization in Portugal is strictly regulated according to the criteria approved by Law No. 37/81. The basic conditions include residing in the country for a minimum of five years. This period is shortened in case of marriage to a citizen of the republic or origin from Portuguese-speaking countries.

But not only the years matter, also taken into account are:

having a legal domicile (official address);
lack of criminal record;
confirmed income;
stable employment or means to support oneself;
level of integration into society.

The law excludes the possibility of “buying” status through formalities. Each applicant must demonstrate real involvement in the country’s life.

Path to citizenship: what is needed for integration

Portugal requires confirmation of integration through language proficiency, knowledge of history, and traditions. The candidate takes the CIPLE exam (A2 level), where the focus is not on philological sophistication, but on the ability to understand, speak, and write at a basic level.

Participation in daily life remains mandatory — renting a house, paying utility bills, medical services, and even activity in the tax system. Genuine immigration means not only relocation but also participation in society’s life.

Procedure for obtaining citizenship

Portuguese registration authorities operate in a digital rhythm. Online appointments, electronic submission of applications, checking the status of applications on the IRN platform — standard.

How to obtain citizenship through naturalization:

Collect certificates of residence, income, lack of criminal record.
Confirmation of residency (having a residence permit or permanent residency).
Payment of a fee of 250 euros.
Successful completion of the language exam.
Completion of the process by swearing allegiance to the Republic.

The application processing time is from 6 to 18 months depending on the region and workload of the IRN.

When citizenship through naturalization is not available?

Naturalization is only allowed for those who fully meet the requirements — without compromises or shortcuts. Violation of even one of the criteria jeopardizes the entire process of acquiring national status.

Government authorities refuse to grant citizenship if the applicant:

provides false information;
does not actually reside in the country;
has criminal episodes in their history;
demonstrates insufficient language proficiency.

In case of refusal, reapplication is possible, but only after addressing the reasons that led to the negative decision. It is a process where reputation plays a role as a currency of trust.

Key points to know about obtaining citizenship through naturalization in Portugal: summary

Citizenship begins not with a passport, but with compliance with clear legal requirements. In Portugal, these conditions are not a formality but a real filter that only prepared and involved individuals pass through.

To become a citizen through naturalization, one must consider the following factors:

Having a legal domicile for at least 5 years.
Legal residency — temporary or permanent.
Confirmed stable income or employment contract.
Lack of a criminal past.
Confirmation of Portuguese language proficiency at A2 level.
Involvement in the public and tax system.
Successful completion of the language exam and oath.
Respect for the country’s laws and adherence to its constitutional principles.

These criteria form not a bureaucratic list but a profile of a person ready to fully become part of Portuguese society. Only real compliance with all points guarantees progress towards citizenship through naturalization in Portugal.

Citizenship through naturalization in Portugal: simplifications and exceptions

Some categories of foreigners obtain status through a simplified procedure. Among them are:

individuals born in the republic to foreign parents with legal status;
spouses and partners of Portuguese citizens (after 3 years of cohabitation);
citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries (Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, etc.);
refugees who have obtained status in the republic.

In specific cases, the residency period is shortened, and the exam is replaced by alternative proofs of integration.

Risks and mistakes in document submission

Mistakes in submission are a common reason for refusals. The following errors are encountered in practice:

lack of confirmed income;
incomplete document package;
ignoring the exam;
applying with a residence permit instead of permanent residency;
violating the minimum residency period.

To avoid risks, the applicant checks compliance with citizenship acquisition conditions in advance and prepares documents according to the IRN regulations.

Alternative to citizenship through naturalization: real estate investments

For those not willing to wait 5 years, there is a faster way. The real estate investment program allows eligibility for citizenship through naturalization in Portugal already after 5 years of obtaining the “golden visa” issued for investments starting from 500,000 euros (or from 350,000 euros for restoration projects).

Key advantages of the scheme:

no requirement for permanent residency (7 days a year is sufficient);
flexibility in asset management;
opportunity to obtain a passport, opening visa-free doors to 191 countries.

This program combines legality, strategy, and acceleration of the process without strict integration conditions. Thanks to real estate investments, obtaining citizenship becomes accessible even with minimal physical presence in the country.

Conclusion

Citizenship through naturalization in Portugal does not offer easy paths but is built on clear, legal, and achievable grounds. This path is suitable for those who have not just moved but have rooted themselves. For those choosing the path through real estate investments, a faster route opens up.

The pros of investing in commercial property abroad: how to choose profitable markets

Investing in overseas commercial property offers a wide range of opportunities for capital growth, asset diversification and stable income. With globalisation and the expansion of international markets, the format of properties in countries like Portugal continues to attract the attention of investors from around the world. Understanding the key advantages of such investments helps to minimise risk and ensure long-term benefits.

Advantages of investing in commercial property abroad

Investing in overseas commercial property offers unique opportunities to build a stable and diversified portfolio of assets. The main advantages of such investments include long-term income, capital protection and favourable tax conditions.

Income stability and high growth potential

The benefits of investing in overseas commercial property are evident due to high yields, stability and growth potential. Investments provide reliable income streams through long-term leases and regular payments. The average yield in countries with developed property markets is 6-8% per annum. Depending on the region and type of property, the percentage can be even higher.

Long-term contracts with large and stable tenants help to ensure a high level of profitability. In countries with highly developed markets, the parties to a transaction usually sign contracts for 5-10 years, which reduces risks and guarantees regular income.

Diversification of investment portfolio

Investing in foreign commercial property helps to diversify assets, which reduces risks and protects against instability in local markets. Given that economic cycles and political situations can vary significantly from country to country, investing in international markets serves as a good defence against financial crises at home.

Diversification can also include the purchase of different types of property such as office buildings, warehouses, retail space and hotel complexes. This enables the investor to spread risk and generate income from different sources, reducing dependence on a particular sector or geographical region.

Capital protection

One of the key advantages of investing in foreign commercial property is capital protection. In conditions of instability in the home markets, investments in objects abroad allow to secure funds from inflation, currency fluctuations and political risks. For example, EU countries have stable legislation that protects investors’ rights to foreign assets, ensuring a high degree of security. In addition, international investment protection agreements and insurance mechanisms provide further protection.

Advantages of investing in commercial property in Portugal

Portugal stands out from other European countries due to the favourable conditions for commercial property investors. There is a unique combination of factors that make the country’s market one of the most attractive in Europe.

Economic stability and GDP growth

Portugal has an economy that has shown stable growth and a high rate of recovery from the global crises. In recent years, the country’s GDP has been steadily increasing by 2-3% per annum, indicating good market conditions and growing consumer demand. A stable economy creates a solid base for investment in commercial property.

Portfolio growth in such conditions can be ensured not only by stable rental yields, but also by growth in the value of the properties themselves. Portugal continues to modernise its infrastructure, improving transport accessibility and construction standards, which contributes to the increase in commercial property prices in various regions.

Golden Visa Programme and tax advantages

The state offers favourable tax conditions for foreign investors, including a taxation system for commercial property owners, as well as the Golden Visa programme. The model allows investors who invest at least 500,000 euros in square metres to obtain a residence permit in Portugal. This gives not only the right to permanent residence in the country, but also favourable tax conditions for renting out property.

Infrastructure development and tourism

Portugal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting more than 25 million tourists annually. Tourism actively supports the demand for commercial property, especially in cities such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, where hotel complexes and retail space are in high demand.

The modernisation of the country’s infrastructure is also contributing to rising property values. In recent years, Portugal has been actively developing its transport system, building new airports and improving rail links, which has a positive impact on property returns.

How to choose commercial property for investment abroad

Selecting the right overseas commercial property for investment requires careful analysis of a number of factors. To minimise risks and maximise returns, an investor should consider the following parameters:

Location – properties in major tourist and business centres such as Lisbon or Porto offer high yields and value growth potential.
The type of property – offices, retail space, warehouses or hotels require different management approaches and different risk assessments.
Market conditions – it is important to understand the current and projected conditions in the chosen country.
Taxes and legal protection – it is important to consider commissions on rental income, capital gains tax and the level of legal security for foreign investors.

Investing in overseas commercial property as a way to create sustainable assets

Investing in overseas commercial property provides excellent opportunities for asset diversification, stable income and capital protection. Portugal is one of the most attractive markets for commercial investors due to its robust economy, tax incentives and strong infrastructure development.

June 17, 2025

How to obtain citizenship in Portugal in 2025: an overview of ways to do so

A morning cup of coffee in Lisbon could be the start of your journey to a European passport – a document that opens visa-free entry to 191 countries and grants you the rights of a citizen of a stable southern European democracy. The question of how to obtain Portuguese citizenship in 2025 is no longer a secret for the chosen few, but a clear plan of action, where each method is detailed: grounds, deadlines, financial costs and requirements – all like a navigator.

Naturalisation: a journey through time and attachment

Residence without gaps is a basic prerequisite. From 2024, the six-year rule applies: an applicant who has lived in the country for this period legally becomes eligible to apply. How to obtain Portuguese citizenship through naturalisation is one of the most popular scenarios.

Requirements:

legal residence under the Portuguese residence permit for at least 6 years;
A2 level language skills (CAPLE certificate);
no criminal record;
Evidence of integration (taxes, housing, employment).

In 2023, more than 32,000 applicants passed through citizenship by naturalisation. Natives of Brazil, Angola and Ukraine dominate. Refusals are formed mainly due to errors in documents and fictitious integration. The IRN – Instituto dos Registos e Notariado – accepts applications.

How to obtain Portuguese citizenship through marriage

Citizenship through marriage is not automatic. Marriage grants the right to apply after 3 years of living together. The marriage must be registered in Portugal. From 2022, there are more frequent checks on the reality of the relationship: interviews, cohabitation, finances. The scenario works also for same-sex unions.

Filing takes place at the same IRN authority. How to obtain Portuguese citizenship through marriage – more often used by immigrants from countries with a Portuguese-speaking base (Brazil, Cape Verde). The decision is made within 12-18 months.

Investments: money decides, but does not exempt from mandatory steps

Obtaining Portuguese citizenship status through financial investment is not automatic. The Golden Visa programme grants a residence permit and opens the possibility for naturalisation on a general basis. From 2024, investments in real estate are no longer accepted. Investments are directed to venture capital funds, scientific research and cultural projects.

In order to obtain civil status, investments are required. For example, €500,000 in a venture capital fund registered in Portugal. €250,000 in cultural projects or €500,000 in research programmes.

The process of obtaining citizenship under this scheme requires a strategic approach. Physical presence in the country is not necessary – spending 7 days a year is enough. Without proper taxation and legalisation of assets, approval cannot be obtained.

By origin and birth: blood, earth, evidence

Birth on the territory of Portugal gives a child a chance for civil status if at least one parent has lived in the country for at least 1 year. The 2020 law has greatly simplified access for children of migrants. Children born abroad are also granted citizenship status by descent.

Confirmation of the fact of origin requires archival work. Church parish documents, consular records, notarial records are often used. How to obtain Portuguese citizenship in this case is not a quick task, but with a high probability of a positive decision.

Documents, costs and pitfalls

Each script is accompanied by its own set of papers, but each one is mandatory:

valid passport and Portuguese passport if available;
proof of income;
certificate of absence of criminal record (with apostille);
proof of legal residence;
language certificate (in case of naturalisation).

The cost of filing is between €250 and €500, depending on the basis. Translation and notary costs are separate. Accompaniment through lawyers increases the budget by €1500-3000. Filing is possible online (via the Justiça portal) or at consulates.

Nationality and dual nationality

Dual citizenship in Portugal officially allows for dual citizenship without restrictions. The law does not require renunciation of the original passport. But not all countries recognise this approach. Russia, India and China are frequent examples of conflicts of jurisdiction. The applicant has to take into account the legislation of both countries: declare the fact of second citizenship, pay taxes, take into account military duty.

How to obtain Portuguese citizenship, keeping the previous one, is a standard practice in the EU. Most migrants keep their first passport. In the country it does not affect the legal status or participation in elections.

What is checked before documents are issued

Before granting Portuguese citizenship, the authorised authorities examine the applicant’s file. The main emphasis is on the continuity of residence and the legality of income. At the slightest breach of residency or tax transparency, the application is suspended. As of 2023, IRN has strengthened the verification of sources of funds. Special attention is paid to:

no sham marriages;
visa compliance;
to pay your taxes on time;
continuity of residence (breaks of more than 6 months without valid reasons block the procedure).

How to get Portuguese citizenship without rejection of the application means passing the test without any white spots in the dossier.

Portugal passport: opportunities without borders

The Portuguese citizen document opens entry to 191 countries. For example: USA, Japan, Canada and the UK without a visa. Gives full access to free movement, work, education and health care in EU countries. In the Henley & Partners 2025 world ranking, the Portuguese passport was ranked as the 4th most visa-free destination.

Obtaining a Portuguese passport is the final stage of the procedure. IRN issues the document once the decision to grant citizenship has been made. The normal waiting period is up to 6 weeks. Filing is done at SEF authorities or consulates.

Figures and statistics: who and how gets a Portuguese passport

According to the Ministry of Justice, 64,040 people will be granted Portuguese citizenship in 2024. The top five countries are Brazil, India, Ukraine, Cape Verde and Angola. The number of applications from Asians and Middle Easterners has increased – especially among investors and professionals.

How to get Portuguese citizenship faster? Applicants with a connection to CPLP (Commonwealth of Portuguese-speaking Countries) use it most often. For them, a simplified regime is applied, which excludes language skills and gives priority in consideration.

How to obtain Portuguese citizenship: conclusions

It is possible to obtain a passport as a Portuguese citizen in 2025 if you follow the rules and act without mistakes. The country offers several ways: through naturalisation, marriage, investment or descent. The main thing is to prove legal residence, integration and clean dossier.

Most refusals are due to formalities: incomplete package of documents, violation of deadlines, dubious income. Those who prepare in advance and act competently get the desired visa without delays.

May 20, 2025