Get Your Portugal Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent : You are eligible if you have a Portuguese parent or grandparent. Recent reforms have made it easier to claim citizenship through ancestry.
- By Marriage or Partnership: Spouses and legal partners of Portuguese citizens can apply after 3 years of marriage or union (with proof of connection to the Portuguese community).
- By Naturalization: Foreigners can apply after 5 years of legal residence, language proficiency, and integration.
- By Investment: The Golden Visa program allows investors to gain residency through qualifying investments, which can lead to citizenship after 5 years.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Portugal allows dual and multiple citizenships without requiring renunciation of your original nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your eligibility route: descent, marriage, residency, or investment.
- Apply through the Portuguese Civil Registry or SEF (Immigration and Borders Service).
- Submit required documents, including proof of ancestry or residency.
- Pass a basic Portuguese language test (for naturalization).
- Receive your citizenship certificate and register as a Portuguese national.
Benefits of Portuguese Citizenship
- Live, work, and travel freely within the European Union
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190+ countries
- Dual citizenship allowed without restrictions
- Access to public education, healthcare, and EU benefits
- Ability to pass citizenship to children
Frequently asked questions.
Does Portugal allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Portugal permits dual and multiple citizenships. You can retain your original nationality while gaining Portuguese citizenship.
Can I get Portuguese citizenship through my grandparents?
Yes. If your grandparent was a Portuguese citizen and you can prove your connection to the Portuguese community, you may qualify. Language and cultural ties are usually required.
Can I apply through marriage or civil partnership?
Yes. Spouses and legal partners of Portuguese citizens may apply after 3 years of marriage or partnership, especially if they have a demonstrated connection to Portugal.
Does Portugal recognize same-sex marriage for citizenship?
Yes. Portugal has recognized same-sex marriage since 2010. Same-sex spouses have the same rights as opposite-sex spouses for citizenship purposes.
Can I gain citizenship through investment?
Yes. Portugal’s Golden Visa program allows qualifying investors to obtain residency and later apply for citizenship after 5 years. The program includes real estate and capital transfer options.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Portugal taxes residents on worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Portuguese-source income. Tax treaties with many countries help reduce or eliminate double taxation.