Portugal's 10-Year Citizenship Rule: What It Means for Investors and Founders

Updated October 2026.

Portugal's revised Nationality Law took effect on May 19, 2026. Most non-EU applicants now need 10 years of legal residence before they can apply for citizenship. The requirement is 7 years for nationals of EU countries and of CPLP countries such as Brazil and Angola.

How the time is counted The clock now starts when AIMA issues your first valid residence permit. It no longer includes the waiting time after you submit your application. This matters most for Golden Visa holders because processing delays can be long. Applications filed before May 19, 2026 stay under the previous rules.

Applicants must also show knowledge of Portuguese language and culture and history. They must understand the rights and duties of citizenship.

What did not change The law changes citizenship. It does not change the residence visas. The Golden Visa still works through qualifying funds or research or cultural contributions or job creation. Buying property has not qualified since the 2023 housing law. The D2 Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa is still open to founders who run a business in Portugal. Permanent residence is still possible after 5 years.

Who should rethink their plan Anyone who chose Portugal mainly for a fast passport should compare the new timeline with other options. If your goal is a base in the EU and a residence permit that you can renew then the routes remain attractive. A consulting session can help you weigh the trade-offs.

Sources: Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026 as reported by Sovereign Group and Portugal.com. ORBIZLY program review of September 15, 2026.