Portugal announces proposal to change Nationality Law and Foreigner Law
The Portuguese government presented, at a meeting of the Council of Ministers, proposals to change the Nationality Law and the Foreigners Law. According to legal expert Isabel Comte, from Martins Castro, the measures do not yet have legal effect since the content needs to be transformed into a bill, approved by Parliament and sanctioned by the President of the Republic. In the meantime, the current rules remain valid.
Check out the main points of the proposals:
- End of the Sephardic regime: naturalization by descent from Sephardic Jews would be terminated.
- Expansion of citizenship by ancestry: would include great-grandchildren of Portuguese people in the right to nationality.
- Minimum residence time increased:
- 7 years for CPLP citizens
- 10 years for foreigners from other countries
- New naturalization criteria:
- Mandatory Portuguese language test
- Assessment of the country's culture, history and political system
- Declaration of adherence to democratic values
- Possibility of loss of nationality: for those sentenced to more than 5 years in prison.
The proposals have not yet become law, but it is important to act soon
If you are eligible for Portuguese nationality, the best time to act is now. Avoid being impacted by possible changes: click here and request your free analysis with Martins Castro.
Lisbon Jewish Community (CIL) issues opinion on changes to the Nationality Law
The recent letter issued by the Jewish Community of Lisbon (CIL) marked a crucial moment in the debate on the future of […]
Per Marketing Martins Castro
on September 12, 2025
The End of the Sephardic Way? What You Need to Know Before Voting
September is a crucial month for families with Sephardic ancestry. September 19th is the date set for […]
Per Marketing Martins Castro
on September 3, 2025
Portuguese Nationality: proposal may change deadlines for naturalization
The proposal will be considered by Parliament in September and involves significant changes to the deadlines and requirements for naturalization. The possible […]
Per Marketing Martins Castro
on September 3, 2025