The Portuguese Parliament approved amendments to the Citizenship Law on April 1, 2026. The law, which had previously been returned in November 2025, was put to a revote. The most significant amendment increases the required residency period for citizenship to 7 years for citizens of the European Union and Portuguese-speaking countries, and to 10 years for others, up from 5 years.
Furthermore, the residency period for obtaining Portuguese citizenship will now be calculated from the date of issuance of the first residence permit, rather than the date of application. The law is currently under a 20-day review period by the Portuguese President, António José Seguro, who will have two options:
- The law must be approved within 20 days; if so, it will be published in the Official Gazette and will enter into force within 30 days of publication.
- To refer it to the Constitutional Court within eight days of receiving the law to verify its constitutionality. The court will then have 25 days to issue a ruling. If the court deems certain provisions unconstitutional, it will return the law to Parliament.
Despite the amendments that have yet to be finalized, Portugal’s Golden Visa program remains one of the most prominent and important European residency programs, offering numerous advantages, including:
- Residency for you and all your dependents, regardless of age (conditions apply).
- Visa-free travel to all Schengen countries after obtaining residency.
- Obtain permanent residency after 5 years, with a minimal residency requirement of just 7 days per year (conditions apply).
- Enjoying full benefits within Portugal, such as free health insurance and education.
- The right to work and reside anywhere in Portugal.
- Return on investment with income tax exemption.
Reach Company offers Golden Visa application services through investment funds. If you are interested, book your free consultation with us.
