PSD Delays Nationality Law Vote Until September: What Immigrants in Portugal Need to Know
1. Introduction
The debate over Portugal’s Nationality Law reform intensified in July 2025. The PSD party decided to postpone the final vote to September, highlighting the clash between legislative urgency and the need for public hearings.
2. Political Context
- The government seeks to increase the minimum residence time for naturalization: 7 years for CPLP nationals and 10 years for others.
- A proposal includes revoking nationality from naturalized citizens with less than 10 years of citizenship if they commit serious crimes (punishable by 5+ years in prison).
3. Why September?
- PSD agreed to conduct expert and association hearings until the third week of September before the final vote.
- They warned the delay must not extend beyond the approval process for the 2026 State Budget.
4. Key Proposals Under Debate
- Stricter Citizenship Rules:
- 3 years of legal residence required for descendants of immigrants.
- 7–10 years for general naturalization, depending on linguistic origin.
- Loss of Citizenship for Severe Crimes:
- Naturalized citizens sentenced to 5+ years of prison within 10 years of acquiring citizenship could lose it.
- Constitutional Concerns:
- Left-wing parties raised concerns about retroactive effects and possible violations of the principle of legitimate expectation.
5. The Urgency Behind September
Parliament begins recess on July 17. PSD supports hearings with bodies like the Bar Association or immigrant associations, such as Casa do Brasil, though some requests were denied. Leftist parties criticized the lack of broad consultation, noting immigrant families feel “fearful.”
6. Impact on Citizenship Applications
- In 2023, 41,393 people obtained Portuguese nationality, including 16,377 Israelis and 23.5% Brazilians.
- Other communities include Cape Verdeans (4.3%), Ukrainians (3.5%), and South Asians.
- 60% of naturalized citizens live outside Portugal, a trend that may shift under stricter rules.
7. Main Political Reactions
- PSD: Pushes for swift approval of the Foreigners’ Law by July 16, but prefers caution for the nationality law.
- Left-wing Parties: PS, Bloco de Esquerda, Livre, and PCP demand public hearings with immigrant organizations.
- Chega: Only Portuguese citizens should be heard in the process.
8. What’s Next?
Hearings will run through late September, followed by a final committee vote. The government also seeks rapid approval of the Foreigners’ Law and the creation of the Foreigners and Borders Unit (UNEF) before the recess.
9. Conclusion
The delay until September represents a delicate balancing act between efficient legislation and public transparency. The proposed reform would tighten nationality criteria but sparks controversy over its constitutionality and social impact.
FAQ
1. Why was the nationality vote postponed to September?
Parliament enters recess in mid-July. PSD called for hearings with experts and associations but insists the law must be finalized before the 2026 State Budget process.
2. Who would be affected by the new rules?
- CPLP nationals: 7 years of legal residence required.
- Other nationals: 10 years required.
- Descendants of immigrants: 3 years required.
- Serious crimes: Risk of citizenship loss within 10 years of naturalization.
3. What are the main objections?
Leftist parties highlight concerns about retroactive impacts and potential violations of constitutional protections, such as the principle of legitimate expectation.
4. When will the final vote take place?
Likely by late September, following the completion of scheduled hearings. PSD aims to conclude before the 2026 budget debate.
5. What happens to pending citizenship applications?
Applicants already meeting current requirements might face delays until the final vote. Monitoring the parliamentary schedule will be essential.
Source
Original news source:
Público – PSD wants to approve changes to the Foreigners’ Law by July 16 and Nationality Law by September
