The amendments to the Portuguese Nationality Law are now in force

Final amendments: Key Changes

The most relevant changes affecting citizenship applicants are the following:

• The minimum legal residency period required for citizenship increases from 5 years to 10 years;
• The counting period will now begin from the issuance date of the first residency card, rather than from the date of submission of the residency application.

Although the new pathway to citizenship it’s now clear, there are several practical and procedural aspects still require clarification. We are closely monitoring all official guidance and legal regulations and will keep you updated.

What now: Depends on Your Current Stage

Completed: If you have you already submitted your citizenship application

You have done your part, and we must now wait for the authorities to process your application. We will keep you informed of further developments on your process.

On hold: In case that you have submitted a Golden Visa application but not yet entitled for Citizenship

We are following all changes and preparing your specific strategy, we recommend scheduling a discussion with our team so we can assess your specific situation, timeline, and the best path forward under the new framework.

Onboarding: Clients considering the Portuguese Golden Visa program

Although the timeline for citizenship has changed, the core benefits of the Portuguese residency program remain fully valid.

Portugal continues to offer one of the most flexible residency pathways in Europe, with low physical stay requirements, access to a safe and stable EU country and the possibility of long-term residency and citizenship.

From our perspective, these changes reinforce the value of Portuguese residency and citizenship itself. The Portuguese government is clearly seeking stronger connections between applicants and the country, while maintaining one of the most accessible residency structures in Europe.

Most importantly, the reasons why international families continue to choose Portugal remain unchanged: political and social stability, security, quality of life, international mobility, access to Europe, and the possibility of building a long-term future in a country that remains welcoming, open, and globally connected. In that sense, the strategic value of Portuguese residency remains as strong as ever.

What’s next:

In light of these recent developments, we will soon be launching a new client guidance initiative Onboarding by NSM designed to create a direct channel of communication for international investors and families navigate not only the residency process itself, but also the practical, legal, tax and lifestyle aspects of building a long-term connection with Portugal.

We look forward to sharing more with you very soon.

Kind regards,

Gonçalo Mendes Leal | Partner NSM Lawyers Portugal