The Portuguese Council of Ministers has just submitted to Parliament a set of proposals that aim to significantly reform the legal framework for immigration and the acquisition of Portuguese nationality.
In this article, we outline the potential changes to both the Nationality Law and the legal framework governing foreign nationals.
The proposals include measures that may impact nationality requirements, minimum residency periods, integration obligations, family reunification rules, and the creation of a new police structure for immigration control.
It is important to note that these proposals are not yet in place, as they must still be approved by the Portuguese Parliament, promulgated by the President of the Republic. However, their content is highly relevant for anyone living, investing, or working with migration procedures in Portugal.
Stricter Criteria for Acquiring Portuguese Nationality
One of the central points of the proposals is the reinforcement of the criteria for acquiring Portuguese nationality. In particular:
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Applicants will be required to demonstrate an effective connection to the Portuguese community, defined as “genuine, strong, and lasting” to apply for nationality by naturalisation.
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The minimum legal residency period will be:
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7 years for citizens of CPLP (Community of Portuguese Language Countries)
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10 years for citizens of all other countries
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Children born in Portugal to foreign parents will no longer automatically acquire nationality, unless at least one parent has held legal residence in Portugal for at least three years.
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Naturalisation by descent will be limited to great-grandchildren, and the current regime applicable to descendants of Sephardic Jews will be eliminated.
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An integration test will be required, covering knowledge of the Portuguese language, culture, constitutional values, and principles of democratic rule of law.
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Individuals with prison sentences will be ineligible for Portuguese nationality. The law will also allow loss of nationality in cases of conviction for serious crimes carrying a sentence of five or more years.
Changes to the Legal Regime for Foreign Nationals and Family Reunification
The proposals also include relevant changes to the legal framework for the entry and residence of foreign nationals in Portugal:
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Family reunification will only be permitted after two years of legal residence by the main resident.
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Spouses and adult family members will be required to submit their applications from their country of origin, removing the current possibility to request reunification from within Portugal.
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Applications will be subject to stricter assessment of housing conditions, financial means, and integration into Portuguese society.
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The CPLP visa, currently granted under simplified rules, will require prior approval from the new Border Unit.
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The option to apply for a visa without an employment contract will be restricted to applicants considered “highly qualified professionals.”
Creation of a New Foreigners and Borders Unit
The Government is also proposing the creation of a new Foreigners and Borders Unit within the Public Security Police (PSP). This unit would be responsible for immigration control, monitoring of legal stays, and enforcement of removal orders.
This structure will assume several responsibilities that previously belonged to SEF – the Foreigners and Borders Service, which is currently being phased out.
Extension of Residence Permits and Visas Until October 2025
At the same Council of Ministers meeting, the Government approved the automatic extension of the validity of residence permits, visas, and other expired documents until 15 October 2025.
This measure extends the previous deadline, which was due to expire on 30 June, and aims to ensure stability and continuity in pending procedures, avoiding irregular legal situations during the transition to the new legal framework.
Final Considerations
The proposals approved by the Council of Ministers reflect a clear trend toward tightening the rules for acquiring Portuguese nationality and for the regularisation of foreign nationals in Portugal. Although none of these measures are currently in effect, their potential impact is significant and should be carefully considered by individuals, companies, and professionals working in the immigration field.
At Lamares, Capela & Associados, we will continue to closely monitor all developments regarding the Nationality Law and the immigration regime, and we are committed to keeping our clients informed in a responsible and timely manner.
We strongly recommend that anyone undergoing a nationality request, family reunification, or regularization process seek legal guidance early to anticipate changes and act with confidence. If this applies to you — or to someone you know — don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
Note: The proposals described in this article still require approval by Parliament, promulgation by the President of the Republic, and official publication before they can enter into force.