We have been queried several times to explain where in Portuguese Law it states that Citizenship can be granted for Investors that joined the Golden Visa program. In order to provide a clear understanding of citizenship is important to realize that Golden Visa regulations and Citizenship are different and separate laws. Citizenship is a specific law that regulates all and possible cases any person can be able to request citizenship and in which terms. Golden Visa program allows investors to obtain one of the conditions to be able to apply for citizenship.
Citizenship in Portuguese Territory for Foreigners:
1- Government provides the Portuguese nationality by naturalization to foreigners that fulfill the following requests:
a) Adults and over 18 years old as per Portuguese Law
b) Have legal residence permit for at least 6 years
c) Know the basics of Portuguese Language as per article 25
d) Have not been sentenced or are planned to be sentenced by a court of a crime with a sentence of jail for a period superior to 3 years as per Portuguese Law. (other words no crime record or potential crime record)
Since all Investors that joined Golden Visa application have been already screened in regards to their criminal record, if nothing changed there is only option c) to be provided. Option c) is currently provided with a multiple choice test in Portuguese.
For those who want to have a look of Portuguese Citizenship law, we are posting the correct link to download.
