Residence, descent, marriage, birth and other routes have different legal requirements. This guide summarises the main paths and the 2026 change.
Rules changed for new applications after Organic Law no. 1/2026 entered into force.
For new general adult naturalisation applications by legal residence, the law provides a seven-year residence period for nationals of countries whose official language is Portuguese and for EU citizens, subject to the other legal requirements.
For nationals of other States, the general legal-residence period for new adult naturalisation applications is ten years, again subject to all other requirements.
People born abroad to a Portuguese parent may have a nationality route based on descent, subject to the applicable registration/legal conditions.
Justice guide ↗A specific route exists for grandchildren of Portuguese citizens, with its own evidence and legal requirements.
Justice guide ↗The 2026 law introduced relevant changes affecting some great-grandchild situations. The exact route depends on the family chain and legal conditions, so use the current law and Justice guidance rather than older summaries.
Check the law ↗A person married to or living in a legally recognised de facto union with a Portuguese citizen may have a route under the Nationality Law, subject to the relevant conditions.
Justice guide ↗Birth in Portugal can create nationality routes for children and adults in specific circumstances. The outcome depends on dates and the parents' situation.
Justice guide ↗The Nationality Law includes additional routes. Do not assume a route from a social-media post without checking the official category.
All gov.pt nationality services ↗Birth certificates and, where relevant, certificates proving the Portuguese family relationship, marriage or other status.
Foreign certificates may need legalisation/apostille and certified translation depending on the issuing country and document.
Residence-based naturalisation and other routes can involve proof of legal residence, Portuguese-language knowledge and other statutory conditions. Check the exact current wording for your route.
Justice provides the official route descriptions, required documents and filing channels.
Justice / Portuguese nationality ↗If you already have a nationality case and the required consultation details, use the official Justice status service.
Check case status ↗