Portuguese Citizenship by Investment Requirements
One of the most attractive features of the Portugal Golden Visa program is its pathway to Portuguese citizenship. After five years, investors and their eligible family members can apply for citizenship through naturalization, unlocking the full benefits of being a European citizen.
Key Requirements for Portuguese Citizenship
To apply for Portuguese citizenship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Five Years of Legal Residency
-
Maintain legal residency in Portugal for a minimum of five years. This requirement is fulfilled by adhering to the Golden Visa program’s stay criteria (14 days every two years).
-
Residency must be validated by the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA).
Basic Portuguese Language Proficiency
-
Demonstrate an A2 level of Portuguese, equivalent to a basic understanding of the language.
-
Applicants can achieve this through formal language courses or standardized tests offered by recognized institutions.
Proof of Connection to Portugal
-
Show tangible ties to the country, such as participation in cultural, social, or economic activities.
-
Examples include property ownership, professional engagements, or long-term residence.
Clean Criminal Record
-
Submit a certificate confirming no criminal convictions in Portugal or other countries of residence during the eligibility period.
Why Citizenship Is Worth Pursuing
Acquiring Portuguese citizenship grants you a Portuguese passport, enabling:
-
Visa-free travel to over 180 countries.
-
The right to live, work, and study in any EU country.
-
Access to Portugal's healthcare and social benefits without investment maintenance.
Begin Your Journey to Citizenship
The Golden Visa not only provides immediate residency benefits but also ensures a secure route to European citizenship, offering peace of mind and a legacy for future generations.
Portugal Citizenship by Investment Application
Becoming a Portuguese citizen through the Golden Visa program is a step-by-step process designed to reward long-term commitment to the country. Here’s an outline to guide you through each phase of how to get portuguese citizenship:
1. Qualify for the Golden Visa
Begin by meeting the eligibility requirements for the Portugal Golden Visa, which include:
-
Making a qualifying investment, such as investment in funds or job creation.
-
Ensuring compliance with all residency and financial prerequisites.
2. Apply for the Golden Visa
Submit your application with the necessary documentation, which includes:
-
Proof of investment.
-
A clean criminal record certificate.
-
Health insurance coverage for Portugal.
3. Obtain a Temporary Residence Permit
-
Upon approval, you will receive a temporary residence permit valid for two years.
-
This permit can be renewed for additional two-year periods.
4. Maintain Your Investment
-
Maintain your chosen investment for at least five years from the date of your application.
5. Meet the Minimum Stay Requirements
-
During the five-year period, fulfill the program’s residency conditions:
-
7 days in Portugal during the first year.
-
14 days every two years thereafter.
-
6. Apply for Permanent Residence
After completing five years of temporary residency, you may apply for permanent residence by:
-
Demonstrating ties to Portugal, such as property ownership or active involvement in the community.
-
Achieving an A2-level proficiency in Portuguese.
7. Apply for Citizenship
Once you have held permanent residency for at least one year, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship by:
-
Passing a basic Portuguese language test.
-
Demonstrating connections to the Portuguese community.
-
Providing a clean criminal record.
8. Citizenship Approval
Upon successful application, you will gain full Portuguese Citizenship by Investment Portugal, which offers:
-
A Portuguese passport with visa-free travel to over 180 countries.
-
The right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.
Why Work With Experts
Navigating the citizenship process involves legal and bureaucratic complexities. Seeking guidance from experienced professionals ensures a seamless experience, from the initial Golden Visa application to gaining Portuguese citizenship.