Pathway to Portuguese Citizenship

Secure EU citizenship after five years through Portugal’s Golden Visa—unlocking visa-free travel, full EU rights, and long-term benefits for you and your family.

The Portugal Golden Visa is not only a gateway to residency—it is a clear and attainable path to full citizenship in a European Union country. By maintaining your qualifying investment and meeting the program’s minimal residency obligations, you become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency after just five years.

This opportunity grants you and your family the ability to enjoy the full rights and privileges of EU citizens, including visa-free access to over 190 countries and the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.

From Residency to Citizenship

Unlike many residency-by-investment programs, Portugal offers a direct and structured path to citizenship. Once you’ve held your Golden Visa for five years—and complied with the basic stay requirements—you can begin the process of naturalization. Recent legislative updates now allow the countdown to begin from the date of your application submission, rather than approval, making the timeline more predictable and efficient.

Key requirements for citizenship eligibility include:

  • Maintaining your qualifying investment during the five-year period
  • Spending an average of just seven days per year in Portugal (minimum stay requirement)
  • Demonstrating basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level)
  • Clean criminal record and compliance with Portuguese law

Benefits of Portuguese Citizenship

Becoming a Portuguese citizen provides significant advantages that extend far beyond the country’s borders. These include:

  • Visa-Free Travel: Access to over 190 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia
  • EU Mobility: The right to live, work, and study in all 27 European Union member states
  • Dual Citizenship: Portugal allows dual nationality, so you don’t have to give up your current citizenship
  • Family Security: Citizenship can be passed on to children, ensuring long-term benefits for future generations
  • Global Flexibility: Reside in Portugal or relocate elsewhere in Europe without visa or permit constraints

Strategic Support from PGA

The journey to citizenship is straightforward—but it’s essential to ensure every step meets legal and administrative standards. At PGA, our advisors manage your application timeline, monitor compliance milestones, and assist you in preparing for the language test and documentation. With our end-to-end support, you’re positioned for long-term success from the very start.

Achieve more than residency—secure your future with the strength of a Portuguese passport.