Recent changes to the Nationality Law: what’s changing in 2026

Portugal’s Nationality Law has been revised again and was promulgated by the President of the Republic on May 3, 2026. The new act amends Law no. 37/81 and makes the criteria for obtaining nationality more stringent, directly affecting those planning to naturalize or to recognize nationality for children born in Portugal.

Longer residence periods for naturalization

For nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries (CPLP) and citizens of the European Union, the required period of lawful residence increases to 7 years. 

For nationals of other countries, the period rises to 10 years. These changes aim to reinforce the effectiveness of ties to Portugal by emphasizing continuous, proven residence.

Children of foreign nationals born in Portugal

For a child born on Portuguese territory to acquire Portuguese nationality at birth, at least one parent must now have been lawfully residing in Portugal for 5 years on the date of birth. This change standardizes the criterion and places greater weight on the family’s integration in the country.

Civic and cultural integration requirements

In several pathways to acquisition (naturalization by residence, marriage/de facto union, and others), greater emphasis is placed on demonstrating:

• Knowledge of the Portuguese language and culture;
• * Basic understanding of national history and symbols;
• * Fundamental rights and duties;
• * The political organization of the State. The focus is on civic integration in addition to documentary ties.

Practical application and relevant date

The IRN has clarified that, for the purpose of applying these amendments, the relevant date will be the date the application is submitted via the online platform.

In practice, applications submitted before the new rules take effect will generally remain under the previous framework, while those submitted afterwards will be subject to the new requirements.

Practical summary

• Naturalization by residence: plan for 7 years (CPLP/EU) or 10 years (others).
• Birth in Portugal: requires 5 years of a parent’s lawful residence on the child’s date of birth.
• Integration: prepare documentation and certifications proving language skills and civic knowledge.
• Procedures: the submission date on the IRN portal is the key reference for determining which regime applies.