The routes, documents and timelines of a nationality application, with the May 2026 update flagged.
Portuguese nationality can be obtained in different ways, depending on the situation of each applicant. Current legislation establishes various possibilities for attribution and acquisition, based on criteria such as length of residence, family ties, birth in Portugal or Sephardic descent.
Note (updated 2026): residence periods for naturalisation changed on 19 May 2026. Confirm whether your file falls under the previous rules or the new law before you plan timelines.
Most common criteria
- Legal residence in Portugal for the qualifying period under the applicable law
- Portuguese parentage or ancestry
- Marriage or de facto union with a Portuguese citizen
- Sephardic Jewish descent
- Birth in Portuguese territory, under certain conditions
Documents usually required
- Valid identification document
- Birth certificate
- Proof of legal residence (if applicable)
- Criminal record
- Declaration of wish to acquire nationality
- Additional documents, depending on the applicable route
Where can I submit the application?
- At the Civil Registry Office
- Through a legal representative
- Online (in some specific cases)
Response times
The process can take between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the complexity of the request and the volume of pending cases.
Reis & Pellicano assesses the strongest route for your case and handles the filing through to decision. Request a case assessment.