New Portuguese Citizenship Rules Approved
On April 1, 2026, the Portuguese Parliament approved the revised Nationality Law. On May 3, 2026, the law was later promulgated by the President of the Republic. On May 19, 2026, the law entered into force.
Under the new rules, most foreign nationals will now need to legally reside in Portugal for 10 years before becoming eligible for citizenship by naturalisation, instead of the previous 5-year requirement. The legislation also introduces a mandatory citizenship test, requiring applicants to demonstrate knowledge of Portuguese history, culture, values, and the structure of society.
An exception applies to nationals of the European Union and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries: they will become eligible for citizenship after 7 years. Both the 7-year and 10-year periods are counted from the date a person obtains their residence permit.
The legislative package followed months of political debate and constitutional review. An earlier version of the law had been partially rejected by the Constitutional Court, after which Parliament revised several provisions and approved an updated version.
The Nationality Law reform forms part of a wider overhaul of Portugal’s immigration framework introduced by the current government. Alongside tougher citizenship requirements, lawmakers are also discussing new deportation procedures and stricter migration controls.
Impact on Golden Visa Investors
Previously, Golden Visa holders could apply for citizenship after 5 years of maintaining their residence status, and the countdown started on the day of submission of a residence permit application. Under the new rules, they need to wait 10 years from the date the permit is issued before becoming eligible for a passport.
No transition period applies to current residents and investors already living in Portugal, according to the approved legislation. This means that applicants who initially planned their path to citizenship based on the former 5-year requirement become subject to the new, longer timelines.
Despite stricter rules, Portugal remains one of the leading destinations for foreign investors seeking European residency. A Portuguese passport continues to offer strong global mobility and access to the EU. The Golden Visa remains available and attractive for those seeking safety, quality of life, and a long-term pathway to Europe.
As for pending nationality applications, they will not be retroactively affected by the reform if they were submitted before May 19, 2026.
Rules for obtaining permanent residence remain unchanged, meaning that Golden Visa holders can still apply for permanent residency after maintaining their temporary residence status for five years.
About Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most popular residence-by-investment programs in the EU. Designed for non-EU and non-EEA nationals, it provides Portuguese residency starting at a contribution of €250,000. Available options include investment funds, business creation, scientific research, and cultural contribution.
The residence permit is initially granted for 2 years and can be renewed indefinitely if the investment is maintained. Golden Visa holders are required to spend 7 days per year in Portugal to keep their status.
Investors are allowed to include family members in the application. Benefits include visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, the right to live and work in Portugal, and a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. Portugal remains attractive to investors due to its safety, high quality of life, and access to the EU.
