Portuguese Citizenship Legal Services
Expert legal guidance for obtaining Portuguese and EU citizenship
Obtaining Portuguese citizenship opens doors to European Union membership benefits and global mobility. Diana Gondim Advocacia specializes in all pathways to Portuguese citizenship, providing comprehensive legal support throughout the complex application process.
With deep expertise in Portuguese nationality law and extensive experience with citizenship applications, we guide international clients through each step of their journey to Portuguese citizenship, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and maximizing success rates.
Whether you're eligible through ancestry, investment, marriage, or naturalization, our expert legal team provides personalized strategies and meticulous attention to detail to help you achieve your citizenship goals efficiently and successfully.
Our Citizenship Legal Services
Comprehensive legal solutions for your Portuguese citizenship journey
Portuguese Citizenship by Investment
Complete legal assistance for obtaining Portuguese citizenship through the Golden Visa program, including investment guidance and naturalization processes.
Citizenship by Descent
Legal support for Portuguese citizenship applications based on ancestry, including document preparation, genealogical research coordination, and application filing.
Naturalization Applications
Comprehensive assistance with Portuguese citizenship through naturalization, including residency requirements, language tests, and application procedures.
Document Preparation & Legalization
Professional handling of all required documentation, including apostille services, translations, and certification of foreign documents for citizenship applications.
Dual Citizenship Consultation
Expert advice on maintaining dual citizenship, understanding obligations and benefits, and navigating international citizenship laws.
Family Reunification
Legal assistance for family members to join Portuguese citizens, including spouse visas, dependent applications, and family reunification procedures.
Our Citizenship Application Process
A structured approach to maximize your citizenship application success
Eligibility Assessment
We conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your circumstances to determine the best citizenship pathway and assess your eligibility under Portuguese nationality law.
Document Collection Strategy
We provide a detailed list of required documents and guide you through obtaining, legalizing, and translating all necessary paperwork from various countries and institutions.
Application Preparation
Our team meticulously prepares your citizenship application, ensuring all forms are correctly completed and all supporting documentation meets Portuguese government requirements.
Language & Integration Support
We guide you through Portuguese language requirements and integration criteria, connecting you with approved language schools and cultural integration resources.
Application Submission
We submit your application to the appropriate Portuguese authorities and ensure all procedural requirements are met, including fee payments and biometric appointments.
Application Monitoring
We actively monitor your application progress, respond to any government requests for additional information, and keep you informed throughout the process.
Citizenship Completion
Upon approval, we assist with the final steps including oath ceremonies, passport applications, and provide guidance on your new rights and obligations as a Portuguese citizen.
Pathways to Portuguese Citizenship
Multiple routes to Portuguese citizenship based on your circumstances
By Investment (Golden Visa)
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Minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate -
5 years of maintained investment and residency -
Basic Portuguese language proficiency -
No criminal record
By Descent (Ancestry)
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Portuguese parent or grandparent -
Documented genealogical connection -
Birth and citizenship certificates -
May require language proficiency
By Naturalization
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5 years legal residency in Portugal -
A2-level Portuguese proficiency -
Clean criminal record -
Demonstrated ties to Portugal
By Marriage
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Marriage to Portuguese citizen -
3+ years of marriage or de facto union -
Basic Portuguese language skills -
Proof of genuine relationship
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Portuguese citizenship applications
What are the main pathways to Portuguese citizenship?
There are several pathways to Portuguese citizenship: by birth (jus soli), by descent (jus sanguinis), through naturalization after legal residency, through marriage to a Portuguese citizen, and through investment (Golden Visa leading to citizenship). Each pathway has specific requirements regarding residency, documentation, language proficiency, and integration into Portuguese society.
How long does it take to obtain Portuguese citizenship?
The timeline varies by pathway: Citizenship by descent can take 1-3 years depending on document complexity. Naturalization typically requires 5 years of legal residency plus 6-12 months processing time. Golden Visa holders can apply after 5 years of maintaining their investment. Marriage-based applications usually take 1-2 years after demonstrating genuine relationship and basic Portuguese language skills.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to become a citizen?
Yes, basic Portuguese language proficiency is required for most citizenship pathways. Applicants must demonstrate A2-level Portuguese (elementary) through approved language tests or certificates. However, there are some exceptions for applicants over 60 years old or those with certain medical conditions that prevent language learning.
Can I maintain my current citizenship when becoming Portuguese?
Portugal generally allows dual citizenship, especially for EU citizens and citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries. However, your current country's laws may affect your ability to maintain dual citizenship. We recommend consulting about your specific situation, as some countries require you to renounce citizenship when acquiring another.
What is the Golden Visa path to citizenship?
The Golden Visa program allows non-EU citizens to obtain Portuguese residency through investment (typically €500,000 in real estate or other qualifying investments). After maintaining the investment and residency requirements for 5 years, Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet language and integration requirements.
What documents do I need for a Portuguese citizenship application?
Required documents typically include: valid passport, birth certificate, criminal background check from all countries of residence, proof of Portuguese language proficiency, proof of ties to Portugal (residency, employment, property), and specific documents depending on your pathway (marriage certificate, parent/grandparent Portuguese documents, etc.). All foreign documents must be apostilled and officially translated.
Can my children automatically become Portuguese citizens?
Children may acquire Portuguese citizenship automatically if born to Portuguese parents (regardless of birthplace) or if born in Portugal to foreign parents who have been legal residents for at least one year. Children can also be included in naturalization applications under certain circumstances, and minor children of new Portuguese citizens may be eligible for simplified citizenship procedures.
What are the benefits of Portuguese citizenship?
Portuguese citizenship provides EU citizenship benefits including: unrestricted travel and residence throughout the EU, access to EU social services and healthcare, voting rights in Portuguese and EU elections, consular protection worldwide, access to Portuguese universities and EU education programs, and the ability to pass citizenship to your children. Portugal also offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
Ready to Begin Your Citizenship Journey?
Contact Diana Gondim for expert legal guidance on your path to Portuguese citizenship and EU membership.
Schedule a Consultation