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Portugal Proposes New Rules for Citizenship
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On June 23, 2025, the Council of Ministers of Portugal introduced a bill that significantly changes the process of obtaining Portuguese citizenship. The path to a Portuguese passport is set to become longer and more difficult — requiring up to 10 years of legal residence, along with additional language and cultural exams.
The proposed changes have not yet come into effect and are currently under legislative review. However, they are already raising concerns among foreigners planning to apply for naturalization in Portugal.
Key Provisions of the Draft Law:
1. Residence Period:
10 years of legal residence in Portugal for the vast majority of applicants;
7 years for citizens of CPLP countries (Community of Portuguese Language Countries such as Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, and others).
Important: The period is counted from the date of issuance of the first residence permit, not from the date of application.
2. New Integration Criteria:
Mandatory knowledge of the Portuguese language at level A2;
Introduction of a civic knowledge test covering elements of culture, history, and the rights and obligations of a citizen.
3. New Rules for Children Born in Portugal:
A foreign parent must have legally resided in the country for at least 3 years (previously 1 year) for the child to be eligible for citizenship at birth;
Citizenship is no longer granted automatically — parents must officially express their intention to obtain citizenship for the child.
Alternative: Cyprus Offers EU Citizenship in Just 4 Years — Without Investment Programs
While Portugal is tightening its requirements, Cyprus, on the contrary, offers a simplified path to citizenship for qualified professionals. Since December 2023, a new naturalization program has been in effect on the island, already attracting interest from the IT sector and international companies.
Legal Residence in Cyprus:
1. Legal Residence in Cyprus:
4 years — with Greek language proficiency at level B1;
5 years — with Greek at level A2
If the applicant holds a diploma in Greek — no language certificate is required.
2. Official Income: At least €2,500/month after taxes.
3. Relevant education and at least 2 years of experience in the corresponding field.
Benefits of Cyprus Citizenship:
EU passport with the right to live and work in any EU country;
Cyprus offers a balanced approach tailored to qualified professionals — without the need for major investments.
How We Can Help
Feod Group provides full legal support at all stages of the immigration process — from preparing the application package to submitting the citizenship request. We assist both those already living in Cyprus and those planning relocation.
🔹 Spain — 10 years of residence. Citizenship by origin or for Latin American citizens is possible after 2 years. Dual citizenship is generally not permitted.
🔹 Italy — 110 years of residence, knowledge of Italian at level B1, lengthy application processing.
🔹 Greece — 7 years of residence, examination on language, history, and culture.
🔹 France — from 5 years of residence, French language proficiency, and integration into society.
🔹 Austria — one of the strictest systems: 10 years of residence (5 years with permanent residency). Dual citizenship is not allowed. Language and integration exams are mandatory. Citizenship is only granted upon full renunciation of previous nationality.
🔹 Belgium — 5 years of continuous residence, knowledge of one of the national languages (Dutch, French, or German), integration, and participation in the country’s economic life.
Planning to Obtain Citizenship in an EU Country? It is important to consider not only the length of residence but also the actual legal, linguistic, and financial requirements
Contact us for a consultation — we’ll help you find the optimal path to EU citizenship.
In 2013, Anastasia Taran graduated with honors from the National University "Odessa Law Academy", earning a Master of Laws degree. She joined Feod Group in 2018 and has since gained extensive experience in international corporate, tax, and immigration law....
In 2013, Anastasia Taran graduated with honors from the National University "Odessa Law Academy", earning a Master of Laws degree. She joined Feod Group in 2018 and has since gained extensive experience in international corporate, tax, and immigration law.
