Citizenship for Children in Portugal

1. Eligibility for Citizenship

Children can acquire Portuguese citizenship through various pathways:

• By Descent: A child born to at least one Portuguese parent is automatically a Portuguese citizen, regardless of the place of birth.
• By Birth in Portugal: A child born in Portugal to foreign parents may acquire citizenship if at least one parent has been legally residing in Portugal for at least two years.
• Adoption: A child adopted by a Portuguese citizen can acquire citizenship.

2. Relevant National Regulations

• Law No. 37/81: Governs the acquisition of Portuguese nationality.
• Law No. 2/2006: Amended the nationality law, particularly regarding children born in Portugal to foreign parents.

3. Application Process

• Documents Required:

  • Birth certificate (translated into Portuguese if issued abroad).
  • Proof of parent(s) nationality (e.g., passport, citizenship certificate).
  • Proof of residence (if applicable).
  • Adoption decree (if applicable).

• Where to Apply:

  • Civil Registry Office: For children born in Portugal.
  • Portuguese Consulate: For children born abroad.

• Application Steps:

  1. Gather required documents.
  2. Submit the application at the appropriate office.
  3. Pay the applicable fees.
  4. Wait for processing (typically 6-12 months).

4. Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately €100-€200, depending on the type of application and processing speed.
• Additional Costs: Translation and notarization of documents if required.

5. Country-Specific Considerations

• Dual Citizenship: Portugal allows dual citizenship, so children can retain their original nationality.
• Residency Requirements: For children born in Portugal to foreign parents, ensure that at least one parent has legal residency for the required duration.
• Language: Knowledge of Portuguese may be beneficial for integration, especially for children who will attend school in Portugal.

6. Additional Notes

• Naturalization: Children who do not qualify for citizenship by descent or birth may apply for naturalization after residing in Portugal for five years.
• Legal Assistance: Consider consulting with a legal expert specializing in immigration and nationality law for complex cases or specific circumstances.

This guide provides a structured overview of the citizenship process for children in Portugal, ensuring parents or guardians are well-informed about the necessary steps and considerations.