Citizenship by Descent in Portugal

Overview

Portugal allows individuals to acquire citizenship through descent if they have Portuguese ancestry. This applies to children, grandchildren, and in some cases, great-grandchildren of Portuguese citizens.

Relevant National Regulations

1. Law: The primary legal framework is established under the Portuguese Nationality Law (Law No. 37/81, amended by Law No. 2/2006 and Law No. 26/2012).
2. Eligibility:
   • Direct descendants (children and grandchildren) of Portuguese citizens are eligible.
   • Great-grandchildren may qualify if the grandparent was born in Portugal and did not lose their citizenship.

Standard Procedures

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Birth certificates (applicant and ancestor).
   • Proof of the ancestor's Portuguese citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, citizenship certificate).
   • Identification documents (passport, national ID).
   • Marriage certificates (if applicable).
   • Any other relevant documents proving lineage.

2. Application Submission:

   • Applications can be submitted at:
     • Portuguese consulates abroad.
     • The Central Registry Office in Portugal.
   • Complete the application form for nationality by descent.

3. Processing Time:

   • Typically ranges from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the relevant authorities.

4. Fees:

   • Application fee: Approximately €150 to €200.
   • Additional costs may include document translations, notarizations, and apostilles.

Country-Specific Considerations

1. Language: All documents not in Portuguese must be translated and certified.
2. Proof of Ancestry: It is crucial to provide clear and verifiable documentation of your lineage. Incomplete or unclear documentation can lead to delays or rejections.
3. Dual Citizenship: Portugal allows dual citizenship, but applicants should verify their home country’s regulations regarding dual nationality.
4. Residency: Citizenship by descent does not require residency in Portugal, but it may be beneficial for applicants to understand the local culture and legal system.
5. Legal Assistance: Consider consulting with a legal expert specializing in Portuguese nationality law to navigate complex cases or if documentation is challenging to obtain.

Conclusion

Acquiring Portuguese citizenship by descent is a structured process that requires careful documentation and adherence to legal requirements. Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to facilitate a smooth application process.