New Portuguese Nationality Law: What will change and how it affects those who have lived in Portugal for 5 years or more

On October 28, 2025, the Portuguese Parliament approved significant changes to the Portuguese Nationality Law. The proposal is now awaiting presidential sanction (or veto) and, if enacted, will directly affect thousands of immigrants living in Portugal who plan to apply for citizenship.

If you have been legally residing in the country for 5 years or more and have not yet submitted your nationality application, it is essential to understand what is coming and how to act in time.

What Will Change?

The main amendment is the increase in the minimum legal residence period required to apply for Portuguese nationality by naturalization:

Before: 5 years of legal residence in Portugal.

Under the new law (once in force):

• 7 years for citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries (e.g., Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, etc.);

• 10 years for citizens of other countries.

In addition, the bill provides for other important changes:

• The residence period will be counted from the issuance date of the first residence permit, rather than from the date of application for the residence permit or entry into the country with a visa;

• Stronger proof of effective ties to the Portuguese community;

• Reinforcement of the Portuguese language requirement;

• Declaration of adherence to the principles of the democratic rule of law;

• Restrictions for applicants with serious criminal convictions.

Real Examples: Who Will Be Affected?

To illustrate how these changes may affect different profiles, consider two practical cases:

• Maria, Brazilian, has lived legally in Portugal since November 2020. She has not yet applied for nationality. If she submits her application before the new law comes into force, she may benefit from the current 5-year rule.

• John, American, has lived in Portugal since September 2019. He has not yet gathered the necessary documents. If he waits until the law is published, he will have to wait until completing 10 years of legal residence to be eligible.

When Will This Law Come Into Force?

The proposal was approved in Parliament on October 28, 2025, but it is still awaiting presidential promulgation. Only after that will the new law be officially published and enter into force.

Important: The new rules will only apply to applications submitted after the law comes into force. Those who apply before publication will be assessed under the current rules.

What Can You Do Now?

If you have already completed 5 years of legal residence in Portugal, it may be possible to act before the new law enters into force. Here are the next steps:

• Check your legal residence date (date of your residence permit application or visa);

• Gather the required documents;

• Consult a specialized lawyer to review your case and ensure everything is correct;

• Submit your application as soon as possible to secure your right under the current legislation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I have already submitted my application. Will the new law affect me? No. The new rules will only apply to processes initiated after the law comes into force.

I am from a Portuguese-speaking country. Will the deadline change for me as well? Yes. The new requirement will be 7 years of legal residence instead of the current 5.

I am renewing my first residence permit. Can I apply for nationality? You must complete the required period with active and continuous legal residence. The new counting method will start from the issuance of the first valid residence permit.

Can I start the process without having all documentation ready? Ideally, the application should only be submitted with all correct and updated documents to avoid rejection, but it is always advisable to consult a lawyer.

Contact Our Team

If you have already been living in Portugal for 5 years or more, this may be the right time to review your situation.

Contact us to verify whether you already meet the requirements to acquire Portuguese nationality.

Our specialized team is ready to analyze your case and guide you through the entire process with security and clarity.