What changes have been approved?

The government wants to make it more demanding to obtain Portuguese nationality. To this end, it is increasing the required period of legal residence in Portugal before an immigrant can apply.

Foreigners from Portuguese-speaking countries must have been residing in Portugal for at least seven years, while citizens from other countries must have been legally residing in the country for ten years.

Only after this period can they apply for nationality. Currently, the requirement is five years, so this marks a stricter approach.

Another change concerns how the residency period is counted. The idea is that the clock will start only once the immigrant has obtained a residence permit, which can take years.

Are there any other requirements?

Immigrants must have a sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language, as already required, and the government is adding the obligation to know Portuguese culture and the fundamental rights and duties linked to nationality. This will be assessed through tests.

Additionally, applicants must declare that they adhere to the fundamental principles of the democratic rule of law.

They also cannot have served a prison sentence, regardless of its length. Currently, only those sentenced to more than three years are barred from applying for nationality.

And what about children of immigrants born in Portugal?

Children of foreign parents will only be eligible for naturalisation if the parents express that wish, and have been residing in Portugal for at least three years.

Therefore, nationality will no longer be automatically granted to those born in Portugal.

And regarding Sephardic Jews?

The government supports ending that regime, arguing that it was meant to be exceptional and was always bound to come to an end.

Can nationality be revoked?

Yes. If these naturalised foreign citizens are later sentenced to five years or more in prison, they will lose their Portuguese nationality.

What other announcements were made?

As part of changes to the Foreigners’ Law, the government will restrict work visas to highly qualified immigrants. It also wants to limit family reunification to minor children only, and applicants must have been residing in Portugal for at least two years.

Regarding the agreement with CPLP countries for visa issuance, a report from the Border Coordination Unit of the Internal Security System will now be required.

At the same time, it will no longer be possible to apply for a CPLP residence permit within Portugal when entering only with a tourist visa or visa exemption.

How will all of this be enforced?

The government has announced the creation of the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders, under the PSP (Public Security Police).

According to the Minister of the Presidency, this will be a border police force responsible for controlling entries into the country, monitoring the entire territory, and enforcing removal orders for those who do not comply with the rules.