Acquisition of Portuguese Nationality by Marriage to a Portuguese Citizen
1. Overview: Nationality Through Marriage
Portugal allows foreign spouses of Portuguese citizens to acquire Portuguese nationality through a simplified legal process. This is one of the most common and accessible routes to citizenship for those who have built a life or relationship in the country.
This right is granted under Portuguese Nationality Law (Lei da Nacionalidade), particularly Article 3 of Law No. 37/81, with amendments updated as of 2020.
2. Who Can Apply?
You can apply for Portuguese nationality if you are married to a Portuguese citizen, provided:
- You have been married for at least 3 years (officially registered)
- OR you have a child together (biological or adopted)
- The marriage is legally valid and recognized in Portugal
Note: You do not need to live in Portugal to apply.
3. Key Legal Requirements
In addition to the marriage length, the following conditions must be met:
✅ Requirements:
- The Portuguese spouse must be registered in the Portuguese civil registry
- The applicant must declare a connection to the Portuguese community
- No criminal record with a sentence of 3+ years (under Portuguese law)
- No involvement in activities related to terrorism or extremism
- Proficiency in Portuguese is generally not required, unless the marriage is less than 6 years and no children are shared
4. Documents Required
Here’s what you’ll need to submit:
For the Foreign Applicant:
- Valid passport or ID
- Birth certificate (original + certified Portuguese translation)
- Criminal record from country of origin and any countries of residence in the last 5 years
- Declaration of connection to the Portuguese community (may be waived with children)
For the Portuguese Spouse:
- Portuguese citizen card (Cartão de Cidadão) or passport
- Proof of registration in Portuguese civil registry
- Marriage certificate (from Portuguese civil registry)
Additional:
- Completed application form (Modelo 1-D)
- Proof of joint children (birth certificate), if applicable
- Proof of fees paid (currently €250)
All documents not in Portuguese must be translated and apostilled or legalized.
5. The Application Process Step-by-Step
Step-by-Step:
- Prepare and translate documents
- Submit the application in one of the following ways:
- In person at a Conservatória dos Registos Centrais (in Portugal)
- At a Portuguese consulate abroad
- Via a Portuguese lawyer or solicitor
- Pay the €250 government fee
- Await processing and possible requests for additional information
- Receive decision and citizenship certificate if approved
6. How Long Does It Take?
The processing time varies, but typically:
- 6 to 12 months for straightforward cases
- Up to 18 months if further investigation is required (e.g., on community ties or criminal background)
You will be notified by mail or online once the process is complete.
7. Common Pitfalls & Important Notes
- Marriages of convenience are thoroughly investigated
- All foreign documents must be translated and legalized
- Criminal background checks must be recent (usually within 3–6 months)
- The Portuguese spouse must be correctly registered in national civil records
If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision in court.
8. Final Thoughts & Useful Links
Acquiring Portuguese nationality through marriage is a streamlined and legally supported pathway, ideal for couples building a shared future. With the correct documentation and transparency, your journey toward becoming a Portuguese citizen can be both smooth and successful.
