Immigration Policy

The Nationality Law has been approved by Parliament — but it’s not law yet.
Before it reaches the Diário da República and takes effect, the reform must travel through the corridors of the Presidency and, possibly, the Constitutional Court.

Here’s a clear look at how many days each step can take, whether the law is approved, vetoed, or sent for constitutional review, and what that means for those waiting to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Previously, under Article 6, Paragraph 4 of the nationality law, individuals looking to secure Portuguese nationality through naturalization were required to hold residency in Portugal for a minimum of five years, among other requirements. The initiation of the five-year period for nationality application was contingent upon the issuance of the initial residency permit.