Streamlining Portuguese Nationality: A Positive Turn for Investors

 By Joana Mendonça Ferreira Head of Legal at Global Citizen Solutions

In a significant effort toward enhancing Portugal's investment landscape, the parliament has announced significant changes to the Portuguese nationality law, offering a ray of hope for applicants dealing with residency application processing delays. These amendments, particularly affecting individuals applying through naturalization, signal a positive shift in the country’s approach to attracting global talent and investors.  

The game-changing modification centers around Article 15, specifically addressing the lengthy waiting periods that have historically hindered the acquisition of Portuguese nationality through naturalization. Previously, a minimum residency period of five years was required from the issuance of the initial residency permit, creating a considerable hurdle for applicants. The recent amendments, integrated into Article 15, now factor in the time between the submission of the temporary residency permit and its final approval when calculating the required legal residency period for nationality.  

This strategic alteration is positive for those who have faced delays in the processing of their residency applications, as it allows individuals to include the waiting period in their residency calculations. 

These changes especially benefits individuals who have pursued Portuguese residency through traditional D-visas, such as the D7 Visa, and participants in the renowned Portugal Golden Visa Program. The strict five-year residency requirement, traditionally measured from the issuance of the initial permit, often led to extended waiting times exacerbated by external factors such as the global pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and administrative restructuring. The recent amendments provide much-needed flexibility and understanding in the face of these challenges, fostering a more investor-friendly environment.  

Looking ahead, the process for acquiring Portuguese nationality through naturalization promises a quicker and more efficient experience for applicants. Prospective investors planning to embark on their Portuguese residency journey in 2024 can now anticipate fulfilling the five-year residency requirement for citizenship by 2029, irrespective of potential delays in processing their residency applications.  

These amendments emphasize Portugal's commitment to positioning itself as an attractive destination for global talent and investment. By addressing delays in residency approvals and offering a more accessible path to nationality, the Portuguese government is not only facilitating the application process but also signaling its dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for investors and individuals seeking to make Portugal their home.