on May 30, 2025

Haven't you started your Portuguese nationality yet? The time to act is now.

on May 30, 2025

Ainda não iniciou sua nacionalidade portuguesa? O momento de agir é agora.

The world is closing its doors. And Portugal? The advance of restrictive policies in Europe and the United States is already impacting those seeking citizenship by descent or residence:

In Italy, citizenship was restricted to children and grandchildren of Italians.
In the UK, language requirements and visa restrictions have increased.
In the United States, the focus is on deportation of immigrants and the Gold Card.

In Portugal, changes are also on the agenda. The elected government advocates:

Double the period for naturalization, from 5 to 10 years.
Exclude the waiting period for a residence permit from the count.
Implement greater control over immigration.

What remains guaranteed — for now

If you fall into one of these situations, you can still apply for Portuguese citizenship under the current rules:

Children and grandchildren of Portuguese people
Spouses of Portuguese citizens who have been together for more than 3 years
Descendants of Sephardic Jews
Children born in Portugal to foreigners
Foreigners with 5 years of legal residence (rule subject to change)

Why acting now is important

The current rules are still in effect but may change at any time.

Anyone who files the application before the change maintains the right based on the current rules.

Delaying may mean facing stricter requirements, longer deadlines and more bureaucratic processes.

If you are entitled, now is the time to act. Count on Martins Castro to conduct your process safely, efficiently and within current legislation. Click here and chat with our team.