On October 24, 2025, the Portuguese Parliament voted on new amendments to the Portuguese Citizenship Law, the most important of which are:
- Increasing the residency period required to obtain Portuguese citizenship from 5 years to 7 years for citizens of the EU and Portuguese-speaking countries (CPLP) and to 10 years for citizens of other countries.
- Proving sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language and culture.
- Other additional conditions aimed at strengthening commitment to the principles and values of the state.
The new citizenship law in Portugal awaits presidential ratification before it can take effect. However, the new law will not apply to holders of the Golden Visa in Portugal who have already fulfilled the requirements and applied for Portuguese citizenship.
Therefore, eligible applicants for Portuguese citizenship who have fulfilled the current residency requirements (5 years) are advised to apply now before the new amendments take effect, especially since no legislation has yet been officially adopted.
If the law is passed as is, obtaining permanent residency in Portugal will remain possible after 5 years, without any obligation to maintain investment in Portugal.
The new citizenship law awaits presidential approval before it can take effect. Once passed, it will redefine the path to citizenship, making it longer and more selective.
