Portugal to Revise Citizenship and Family Reunification Rules Amid Immigration Overhaul

The Portuguese government has confirmed it will tighten rules for citizenship and family reunification as part of broader reforms to its immigration policy. Minister António Amaro noted that the Nationality Law will undergo review, particularly concerning residency duration and eligibility timelines.

One of the most significant proposed changes is extending the legal residency requirement for citizenship applicants from five to ten years. While advocacy groups have pushed for the waiting period between a residence permit application and approval to count toward this total, authorities are considering excluding this time, effectively lengthening the process for foreign nationals.

During a government meeting on June 14, officials debated whether this pre-approval waiting period should be counted as legal residency. However, the prevailing position seems to support not including it, aligning with a broader effort to tighten migration rules.

Following the re-election of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro on June 15, immigration reform has become a central priority. The government has made clear its intention to curb migration flows, citing pressure on public services and integration capacity.

New restrictions are expected for family reunification visas, particularly affecting applicants from countries with high migration flows to Portugal, such as Brazil and other CPLP nations (Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries), including Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde.

Additionally, job-seeking visas will likely be limited to highly qualified professionals, with proposals to introduce language proficiency requirements. The government also plans to implement measures to attract and retain skilled foreign workers, including Portuguese emigrants and descendants.

These reforms mark a significant shift in Portugal’s traditionally open immigration policy and are expected to impact thousands of current and prospective migrants.