Portugal remains one of the most popular European countries for foreign nationals to emigrate to. But the biggest question is, how to obtain a Portuguese passport? This guide covers everything you need to know.
There are many ways to obtain a Portuguese passport, but applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and have all necessary documents to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
If you have been considering moving to Portugal, you are in the right place. At PNFG Consultancy, we offer comprehensive assistance, from the collection and verification of ancestral documents to final citizenship approval.
So, how can I obtain a Portuguese passport? In this guide, we’ll provide you with an overview of the process and criteria for obtaining Portuguese citizenship.
How to Obtain a Portuguese Passport: Everything You Need to Know
Here, we’ve listed the most common routes to apply for a Portuguese passport.
1. Portuguese Passport Through Marriage
In Portugal, you can gain citizenship through marriage after three years of being married to a Portuguese citizen. In this case, no residency permit is required to live in Portugal.
However, you are required to prove your marriage through certifications. And even if you get divorced or separated in the future, your Portuguese citizenship won’t be revoked.
2. Portuguese Citizenship by Descent
Obtaining Portuguese citizenship by descent requires proof of direct lineage from Portuguese-born parents or grandparents born before December 19, 1961. If someone in your family tree was born in Portugal, you might be eligible for citizenship yourself.
Key requirements include:
- a valid birth/marriage certificate
- a criminal record check
- For the grandparents’ case, proof of A2 level language proficiency
All foreign documents must be officially translated and authenticated through an Apostille.
3. Portugal Passport by Neutralisation
Under Portuguese nationality law, citizenship by naturalisation is granted to foreigners who have lawfully resided in Portugal with a valid residence permit for at least five years.
There are five main ways to obtain residency in Portugal for foreigners:
- By investment
- By obtaining a visa for financially independent people
- By working for a Portuguese supplier
- By founding a startup
- By committing to study in the European Union (EU)
Step-by-Step Process on How to Get Portuguese Citizenship in 2026
Let’s break it down into manageable steps to help you understand the process for obtaining a Portuguese passport.
1. Confirm Your Portuguese Citizenship Registration
If your citizenship was granted recently, ensure your:
- Portuguese birth registration is completed.
- Citizen number is issued.
- All records are correctly entered in Portugal’s civil registry.
Without proper registration, passport processing cannot proceed.
2. Apply for the Portuguese Citizen Card
Before applying for a Portuguese passport, you must first obtain your citizenship card. It’s essentially your identity within Portugal.
The citizenship card works as:
- National ID
- Tax number (NIF)
- Health number
- Social security number
Processing times vary depending on location and appointment availability.
3. Submit Passport Application
Once your Citizen Card is ready, you can apply for the passport.
Documents typically required:
- Valid Portuguese Citizen Card
- Passport application form
- Biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature)
- Applicable government fee
The passport is biometric and generally valid for 5 years (10 years for adults, depending on issuance date and regulations).
Benefits of Holding a Portuguese Passport
You might be wondering, why do so many people actively pursue it? And what benefits does it offer?
A Portuguese passport provides:
- Visa-free travel to 190+ countries
- Right to live and work anywhere in the European Union
- Access to healthcare and education in EU member states
- Business expansion opportunities within the European market
- Dual citizenship allowance (Portugal permits it)
For entrepreneurs and professionals, this opens doors beyond travel. It unlocks mobility and economic flexibility.
The Bottom Line
Understanding how to obtain a Portuguese Passport begins with clarity and information. You can legally apply for Portuguese citizenship and open doors to a wide variety of future opportunities if you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documents.
If you are considering applying for a Portuguese passport, PNFG Consultancy is ready to help every step of the way.
At PNFG Consultancy, we are a skilled team of experienced professionals who work tirelessly to help you navigate every challenge and acquire Portuguese citizenship.
Get in touch with PNFG Consultancy today and take your first step towards your Portuguese nationality.
FAQs About How to Obtain a Portuguese Passport
Do I need to renounce my Indian citizenship?
India does not allow dual citizenship. If you acquire Portuguese citizenship, you must surrender your Indian passport. However, you may apply for OCI status afterwards.
Is the Portuguese language mandatory?
Language knowledge may be required for naturalisation applicants. However, those applying through ancestry often have different criteria.
How many years does it take to get a Portuguese citizenship?
It may take 3 to 5 years to gain Portuguese citizenship.
