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Portugal’s Parliament has officially approved major changes to the Nationality Law, marking one of the most significant updates to immigration and citizenship rules in recent years. The decision came on October 28, 2025, following weeks of heated debate among political parties.
If you’ve been considering applying for Portuguese citizenship or a Portugal visa, these updates could directly affect your journey. Let’s break down what’s new, what stays the same, and what it means for immigrants, investors, and residents across the country.
The Vote: How the New Nationality Law Was Passed
The new law was approved by a strong majority 157 votes in favor and 64 against, well above the required threshold of 116 out of 230 deputies.
The PSD/CDS, Chega, and Iniciativa Liberal (IL) parties voted in favor, securing the win. Meanwhile, PS, Livre, Bloco de Esquerda, PAN, and PCP opposed the bill. JPP deputy Filipe Sousa voted in favor, adding a decisive push toward approval.
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Before the final vote, the PSD, CDS, IL, and Chega rejected several appeals from opposing parties, paving the way for the new version of the Nationality Law to move forward.
Key Changes in Portugal’s New Nationality Rules
So, what exactly has changed? Here’s a breakdown of the most important updates every expat and visa holder should know:
1. Longer Residency Requirement
To apply for Portuguese nationality, you’ll now need to prove 10 years of legal residence in Portugal.
However, there’s an exception: citizens from Portuguese-speaking countries (CPLP) and the European Union will only need seven years.
2. Language and Culture Test
Applicants must now show proof that they understand the Portuguese language, culture, history, and national symbols. This can be done through an official test or certificate, ensuring that new citizens are more integrated into the country’s culture.
3. Criminal Record and Conduct
Only those with no final or unappealable prison sentences of two years or more will qualify for nationality. This addition aims to strengthen the integrity of Portugal’s citizenship process.
4. Proof of Financial Stability
A new rule requires applicants to demonstrate means of subsistence, essentially proving that they can support themselves financially while living in Portugal. This clause, supported by PSD and CDS, sparked debate, with critics warning it could disadvantage lower-income residents.
5. Children Born in Portugal
Children born in Portugal will only automatically gain nationality if at least one parent has legally lived in the country for five years.
This change tightens the previous law, which allowed broader access to citizenship for children born on Portuguese soil.
6. No Nationality for Children of Undocumented Immigrants
Under the new law, children born to parents who are in Portugal illegally will no longer be eligible for naturalisation. The previous legislation allowed this possibility regardless of the parents’ legal status.
7. Citizenship Can Be Revoked for Fraud
A new clause allows Portugal to revoke nationality obtained through fraudulent means, an amendment proposed by Chega and later accepted by PSD and CDS.
When Does the New Law Take Effect?
Unlike many other legislative changes, this new nationality law takes effect immediately, the day after its publication in the official government record.
A proposal to delay implementation until March next year was rejected.
What This Means for Expats and Visa Holders
For many immigrants, this reform means a longer wait to qualify for Portuguese citizenship, especially for those not from Portuguese-speaking or EU countries.
However, the introduction of clearer cultural and language criteria could make the process more predictable once applicants meet all the new requirements.
If you’re already living in Portugal on a D7 visa, digital nomad visa, or golden visa, it’s important to stay updated and ensure you maintain legal residency to keep your path to nationality open under the new rules.
Final Thoughts
Portugal remains one of Europe’s most immigrant-friendly destinations, but this reform shows a shift toward stricter integration standards and longer residency paths.
It’s a reminder to anyone pursuing citizenship to plan ahead, stay compliant with visa rules, and keep track of legal updates.
For those considering moving, now’s the time to review your Portugal visa strategy, especially if you aim to apply for nationality in the future.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Readers should consult an immigration lawyer or the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) for professional guidance regarding their specific situation.