New Portuguese Nationality Law — What Has Changed?
Portugal has taken a significant step with the new Nationality Law, which introduces a longer timeline to citizenship and reshapes the planning horizon for international residents and investors.
For Heed Capital, this reinforces the importance of viewing mobility, residency, and investment as part of a long-term strategy. Portugal remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations, thanks to its stability, security, quality of life, and continued appeal for international capital.
The Golden Visa also remains in force in 2026, with the programme still offering a residency route after five years, while naturalisation timelines have been extended under the new law.
Key changes
✔️Citizenship timelines
✔️7 years for CPLP nationals, including Brazilian citizens.
✔️10 years for other nationalities.
✔️The residency clock now starts from the issuance of the residence permit, not from the application date.
🏛️ Impact on the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa remains a strong and established route to European residency.
Investors should now plan for a longer pathway to citizenship.
Strategic structuring from the outset is more important than ever.
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