Following the recent parliamentary review, a significant amendment to the Portuguese Nationality Law has once again been approved, with a direct impact on the requirements for obtaining citizenship.
The main change consists of an increase in the minimum period of legal residence required to apply for nationality, rising from 5 to 10 years, counted from the date of issue of the first residence permit.
It is important to note that, at this stage, no transitional or safeguard arrangements have been provided for, which could have significant implications for applicants who are close to meeting the requirement currently in force.
Current status of the legislative process
Despite parliamentary approval, the legislative process has not yet been concluded.
The final version of the legislation is expected to be formalised and published in the coming days, and will subsequently be sent to the President of the Republic for promulgation.
Under the Constitution, the President may:
• promulgate the legislation;
• exercise a political veto; or
• request a preventive review by the Constitutional Court.
Should a constitutional review be triggered, various scenarios may arise, including the need for amendments to the bill or its return to Parliament.
Practical recommendation
Given the current situation, it is recommended that particular attention be paid to deadlines and that each individual case be assessed to determine whether it is appropriate to proceed with the application for citizenship.
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