The Government has announced that it intends to table amendments to both the Nationality Act and the Immigration Act. In practice, these are still just proposals that will be sent to Parliament and must go through the full legislative process before taking effect.

For now, therefore, we only have an outline of what might change. These are sensitive issues, and, in my view, the Government has been irresponsible in failing to explain the substance and application of the measures.

Below are the main points that could affect anyone planning to move to Portugal—or already living here.

Portugal Nationality Law 2025: 10-Year Naturalisation & Stricter Birthright Rules

Portugal's proposed 2025 Nationality Law reforms introduce tougher paths to citizenship. Naturalisation would require 7 or 10 years of legal residence (depending on country of origin), proof of Portuguese language and civic knowledge, a sworn pledge to republican principles, and no serious criminal record or security risk.

For children born in Portugal to foreign parents, automatic nationality at birth would apply only if one parent has held legal residence for at least three years and formally requests Portuguese citizenship for the child.

Stricter Requirements for Acquiring Nationality

The main proposed changes to the naturalization process include:

Naturalization Would Now Require:

• Legal residence of 10 years (General rule. Exception of CPLP countries, which have proposed 7 years)
• Proof of knowledge of Portuguese language, culture, political organisation and democratic values
• A formal declaration of adherence to the principles of the Republic
• No serious criminal convictions and no threat to national security

Children of Foreign Nationals

One of the most significant changes refers to children born in Portugal to foreign parents. According to the new proposals:

A child born in Portugal would only acquire nationality at birth if one of the parents:

• Has held legal residence in Portugal for at least three years, and
• Formally declares the wish for the child to be Portuguese

This change represents a substantial alteration from current rules and could significantly affect families planning to have children in Portugal.

Impact Analysis of the Proposed Changes

These proposals, if implemented, will represent a significant shift in the Portuguese immigration landscape. The stricter requirements for naturalization and new rules for birthright citizenship reflect a trend towards greater control and regulation of citizenship processes.

For Current Residents

Those already residing in Portugal should pay attention to the development of these proposals, as they may affect:

• Future naturalization plans
• Rights of children born on Portuguese territory
• Additional integration requirements
• Necessary residence periods

For Future Residents

Those planning to move to Portugal should consider:

• Early initiation of the legal residence process
• Preparation for linguistic and civic requirements
• Family planning considering the new rules
• Monitoring legislative developments

Next Steps and Recommendations

It is essential to closely monitor the development of these proposals in Parliament. The changes, if approved, will have far-reaching consequences for both current and future residents of Portugal.

Understanding these potential changes is crucial for anyone considering Portuguese citizenship or planning to start a family in Portugal. The legislative process will likely take several months, providing time for public debate and potential modifications to the proposals.

We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updated analysis as the legislative process unfolds.