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Portuguese Citizenship

Overview

Portuguese citizenship grants full legal rights as a Portuguese national, including the right to live, work, vote, and travel freely in the EU.

Can be acquired by naturalization, marriage, descent, or other legal pathways.

Highlights

Full EU citizenship rights (work, live, vote in Portugal and EU).

Enjoy Portugal’s high quality of life, mild climate, and safety.

Benefits of the Retirement Visa – D7

Full EU citizenship rights (work, live, vote in Portugal and EU).

Access to social security, healthcare, and education in Portugal and EU.

Portuguese passport for visa-free travel worldwide.

Ability to hold dual citizenship.

Right to vote and stand for public office in Portugal.

Requirements

Residency: Must have legally lived in Portugal for at least 5 years (reduced for some cases).

Language: Basic proficiency in Portuguese (A2 level or higher).

Clean Criminal Record: No serious criminal convictions in Portugal or abroad.

Proof of Integration: Knowledge of Portuguese culture and society.

Legal Stay: Continuous legal residence during the 5 years.

Application process

Confirm eligibility (residency duration, language skills, documents).
Gather required documents (passport, residence permits, proof of income, criminal records, language certificate).
Submit citizenship application at the local Portuguese Civil Registry or online. The online application can only be done through a lawyer who must authenticate themselves with their digital certificate and active digital signature.
Attend interview or language test if requested.
Wait for decision — processing typically takes 6 to 12 months.
If approved, attend citizenship ceremony and receive Portuguese nationality certificate.

How Charfort can help you?

Eligibility assessment, Application submission

Electronic submission to the Portuguese immigration authorities or embassy/consulate.

Appointment scheduling (consulate visits, biometric data collection, city hall registrations).

Rejection appeal assistance

If your application is denied, we help you understand the reasons, prepare the necessary documents, and guide you through the appeal process to improve your chances of success.

Document preparation, Ongoing legal support

Assistance with securing private health insurance valid in Portugal. Preparation of forms and complete application package.

Full application follow-up and updates.

Property support

Housing procurement tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the process.

How long do I need to live in Portugal to apply?

Generally 5 years of legal residence.

Do I need to speak Portuguese?

Yes, basic proficiency (A2 level) is required.

Can I keep my original citizenship?

Yes, Portugal allows dual citizenship.

How long does the process take?

Around 6 to 12 months on average.

Can family members apply too?

Yes, dependents can apply under family reunification rules.

Can I keep my other citizenship?

Yes. Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original citizenship while residing in Portugal.

Contact us today

Charfort assists international clients in obtaining residence and citizenship under the respective programs. Contact us to arrange an initial private consultation.

Talk with an expert