Portuguese citizenship by birth

Portuguese citizenship by birth is founded on the principle of “jus sanguinis,” which implies that it is determined primarily by the nationality of one’s parents rather than the location of birth. However, there are specific circumstances in which a person can obtain Portuguese citizenship by birth.

How to get citizenship by birth in Portugal

To acquire Portuguese citizenship by birth, there are a few different scenarios to consider:

1. Both parents are Portuguese citizens. You are automatically granted Portuguese citizenship if both of your parents are Portuguese citizens at the time of your birth.
2. One of the parents is a Portuguese national. You are automatically granted Portuguese citizenship if one of your parents is a Portuguese citizen at the time of your birth.
3. Birth on Portuguese soil: provided you were born in Portuguese territory and neither of your parents is a Portuguese citizen, you can obtain Portuguese citizenship provided at least one of your parents lived in Portugal legally for at least two years prior to your birth.

Documentation and Application

It is critical in all situations to obtain the relevant papers to demonstrate your candidacy for Portuguese citizenship.

Collect personal documents

Gather the personal documents listed below:

1. Your original birth certificate
2. Your current passport or national identification card
3. Birth certificates for your parents
4. If relevant, your parents’ marriage certificate
5. Passports or national identification cards issued to your parents
6. Proof of your parents’ residence in Portugal (if relevant)

Following steps

• Obtain official translations. If any of your documents are not in Portuguese, you must get them translated into Portuguese by a qualified translator.
• Get in touch with the Portuguese consulate or embassy. Inquire with the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country about the unique application criteria and procedures. They will give you the relevant forms as well as instructions on how to continue.
• Fill out the application form. Fill out the application form completely and accurately. Please provide all requested information and attach all necessary documents.
• Send in your application. Send the application form and supporting documentation to the Portuguese consulate or embassy. If any fees are due, they must be paid.
• Waiting for processing and decision. The Portuguese authorities will handle the application. Because processing times can vary, it is critical to remain patient throughout this stage. If additional information or documents are required, you may be contacted.
• Decision notification. The Portuguese authorities will notify you once a decision has been made on your application. If your application is approved, you will be issued a Portuguese citizenship certificate.

Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship is permitted in Portugal, which means that you can be born in Portugal while also holding citizenship in another nation. You do not need to relinquish your existing citizenship if you are granted Portuguese citizenship by birth.