Portugal 2026 Citizenship & Immigration Reforms - Jobbatical
The article outlines significant changes to Portugal's nationality and immigration laws set to take effect in 2026, impacting expats and investors. Key reforms include: 1. Extended Residency Requirements: Naturalization now requires 7 years of legal residence for applicants from Portuguese-speaking countries and 10 years for others. Stricter integration criteria will be enforced, including language and civic knowledge tests. 2. Narrowed Citizenship Eligibility: The pathway for citizenship through Sephardic Jewish descent has been eliminated. Ancestry-based nationality is now limited to third-generation descendants who can prove a genuine connection. Additionally, children born to foreign parents must have at least one parent legally residing in Portugal for 3 years to apply. 3. Tighter Immigration Controls: Job-seeker visas will be restricted to highly qualified professionals, and family reunification will require a minimum of 2 years of residence. These reforms aim to streamline immigration processes and enhance integration standards for new residents in Portugal.