Portugal Amends Citizenship Law: Retaining the 5-Year Naturalization Rule – Protecting Golden Visa Investors’ Rights

Portugal has officially resumed the process of amending its Citizenship Law, bringing positive signals for investors participating in the Portuguese Golden Visa program.

According to the latest proposal by the Socialist Party (PS), the 5-year residency requirement for citizenship applications will be clarified, while safeguarding the rights of those who have already begun their investment and residency process before the new law takes effect.

1. Legal Residency Period for Citizenship

• EU and EEA residents: Required to reside continuously for 5 years.
• Investors and non-EU nationals: The 5 years are counted from the date of the first valid residence permit, regardless of the time taken for application processing.

2. Provisions for Dependent Children

Children under 18 years old are eligible to apply for citizenship together with a parent who has legally resided in Portugal for at least 1 year.

3. Điều khoản bảo lưu quyền lợi – Grandfather Clause

This key clause eliminates retroactive application of the new law, meaning:

• Those who have resided in Portugal for 5 years before January 1, 2026 can still submit their citizenship applications until December 31, 2026.
• Pending Golden Visa applications will continue to have their residence time counted normally.
• If the legislative process takes longer, the deadline may be extended to early 2026 — creating additional opportunities for investors.

4. Positive Impact on the Golden Visa Program

• The 5-year naturalization rule remains unchanged for current investors.
• No retroactive effect, protecting applicants’ vested rights.
• Reduced policy risks, helping investors plan their settlement and citizenship confidently.

5. Conclusion

This amendment brings good news to the Portuguese investment and immigration community.
It not only reinforces international investors’ confidence but also reaffirms the stability and credibility of the Portugal Golden Visa — one of Europe’s safest, most transparent, and effective residency pathways.

Contact OMG VISA for detailed guidance on your investment, residency, and citizenship roadmap tailored to you and your family.