Immigration
9 Changes to Portugal's Golden Visa Citizenship Timeline Explained
The Nationality Law amendment effective 19 May 2026 increased the residency requirement for naturalization to 10 years for most non-EU citizens, and seven years for EU and CPLP (Portuguese-speaking) nationals. This change applies to all nationality applications filed from 19 May 2026 onwards. Applicants who formally submitted their nationality request on or before 18 May 2026 remain eligible for the previous five-year path, regardless of their residence permit status.
Why it matters
If you are a golden visa holder or resident planning to apply for Portuguese citizenship, you must now meet a 10-year residency requirement instead of five, unless you had already formally filed your application by 18 May 2026.The Portugal NewsRead original ↗
