Portuguese nationality through the Sephardic route: what is in force and what may change in October
The proposed legislative amendment that could end the granting of Portuguese nationality based on Sephardic ancestry has not yet been voted on. The decision, initially scheduled for September, has been postponed until October 2025. Until then, current legislation remains valid and applicable.
Right now, processes already in progress continue to be accepted and analyzed based on the rules in force at the time of submission and new orders continue to be accepted, without impact.
This scenario, however, requires attention — especially for those considering initiating a request through the Sephardic route or transmitting nationality to their family nucleus (minor children and spouse).
Current status of the Law
Portuguese nationality by descent from Sephardic Jews was created by Law No. 30-A/2015, aiming to recognize the historical and cultural ties of descendants of Jews expelled from the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th century. The process currently requires proof of Sephardic ancestry through documents and an objective connection to the Portuguese community.
At the moment:
- Applications continue to be accepted by the Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN).
- Certificates issued by recognized Israeli communities remain valid.
- There is no new requirement in effect at this time.
Proposal in progress
The proposal currently under consideration in Parliament would revoke the possibility of granting nationality through this method. A vote date has not yet been set, but it is expected to take place in October 2025.
If the change is approved, there will still be legal steps to be completed: enactment, publication and entry into force, which may extend the validity period of the current standard.
Those who already have an active process
For those who have already submitted their nationality application:
- The process continues under analysis normally.
- No further action is required at this time.
- Future changes should not retroactively to undermine requests already made.
For those who still intend to file the application
Given the current legislative scenario, the route is still available. However, it is important to consider:
- The time needed to gather the correct documentation.
- The possibility of changes to the Law in the coming months.
- The importance of seeking appropriate guidance and reliable sources of information.
Our commitment to the community
We know that this topic involves not only legal aspects, but also family decisions, life planning, and identity issues. Therefore, in addition to clients, we speak with everyone who closely follows this topic—descendants, scholars, and families in different countries.
We reiterate our commitment to continue responsibly and up-to-date monitoring of all legislative and administrative developments related to Portuguese nationality. We will be closely monitoring developments in October and will keep the community informed as soon as concrete decisions are made.
If you have any questions or suggestions for topics you would like to see clarified, please send them to e-mail We remain available to provide accurate information and the respect this topic deserves.
If you have not yet started your order via the Sephardic route, please fill out the form below:
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If you wish to pass it on to your children and spouses, please access the link below:
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