Portugal Dual Citizenship: A Step-by-Step Guide for US Citizens

Discover why Portugal, with its rich history, breathtaking Atlantic coastline, and vibrant culture, is becoming a top choice for US citizens, foreign nationals, and expats alike.

Imagine enjoying the benefits of Portuguese citizenship: a high quality of life, affordable living, and an excellent health system. Portugal ranks 13th in the Global Citizen Solutions Quality of Life Index, thanks to its appealing cost of living, freedom levels, and overall happiness.

Thinking about Portugal dual citizenship? Embrace the opportunity to live, work, and study in this beautiful country, all while enjoying visa-free access to the Schengen Zone.

Our guide delves into the perks of residing in Portugal, the eligibility criteria, and visa options under Portuguese Nationality Law. We’ll also show you how to acquire citizenship and highlight the best Portuguese cities for US expats seeking a vibrant lifestyle.

What is Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship, also referred to as dual nationality or second citizenship, is a legal status where an individual is recognized as a citizen in two countries simultaneously. Dual citizenship can be obtained through various routes, including naturalization, descent, and more – to be explored in detail later on.

Having a second passport is ideal for Americans moving to Portugal, as it allows them to become legal residents and enjoy the benefits of being integrated into the European Union.

Does Portugal allow dual citizenship?

Yes, Portugal does allow dual citizenship. While the country does not have specific dual nationality agreements, the Portuguese government, in line with Portuguese nationality law, does allow second citizenship with several countries and will not require you to give up your original citizenship to become a Portuguese citizen, and simultaneously, an EU citizen.

Here’s what you need to know before you apply for Portuguese citizenship:

Dual citizenship in Portugal

Now that we know Portuguese law allows dual citizenship and for individuals to maintain ties with their home country, it is important to note that to gain dual citizenship, you must have lived in Portugal for at least five years as a legal resident. To meet this residency requirement, you must have been married and have a valid marriage certificate, or have been in a de facto (non-marital) partnership with a Portuguese national for over three years. Additional requirements for Portuguese nationality include:

• Portuguese language proficiency
• A clean criminal record certificate
• Proof of Portuguese residency, such as a legal residence permit.

US Policy on dual citizenship

According to the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, the United States of America does recognize dual citizenship permits American citizens to have foreign citizenship without losing their American citizenship. US law will also not require US citizens to choose between their US citizenship and Portuguese nationality or other foreign nationality, keeping their US citizenship risk-free. However, dual citizens are required to obey the laws of both countries and may be required to use their US passport instead of their second passport to enter and leave the United States.

The Benefits of Dual Citizenship for US Citizens in Portugal

Live, work, and study in Portugal

With a Portuguese passport, you gain the right to live, work, and study in this picturesque Western European country without the usual difficulties faced by non-Portuguese citizens and non-EU citizens. Portugal offers exciting full-time or part-time employment opportunities and excellent Portuguese universities where you can pursue higher education for the career of your dreams.

Visa-free access and travel to other European Union countries

Obtaining Portuguese citizenship unlocks incredible experiences of fado music and flavorful pastéis de nata and opens up the entire European Union for you. Portuguese nationality comes with visa-free access to the Schengen Zone and an opportunity for dual citizens to easily embark on European adventures and explore the wonders of 27 European Union nations, whether travelling for business or leisure.

Low-cost living and high-quality of life

Portugal offers a high quality of life, a pleasant climate, delectable cuisine, and a lower cost of living. According to a Numbeo cost comparison between Lisbon and Washington, DC:

• Rental prices in Lisbon are 61.8% lower than in Washington, DC
• Restaurant prices in Lisbon are 50.8% lower than in Washington, DC
• Grocery prices in Lisbon are 52.7% lower than in Washington, DC

Portugal is not only one of the safest European Union countries; you can live a comfortable, budget-friendly lifestyle without missing out on the beauty and luxury the nation has to offer.

How to Move to Portugal from the USA and Get Dual Citizenship

Portugal dual citizenship eligibility

As mentioned initially, there are a variety of routes to obtaining Portuguese citizenship. Take a look at the following eligibility criteria to acquire Portuguese citizenship as well as Portuguese dual citizenship:

Portuguese citizenship by investment

With the Portuguese Golden Visa, Americans have a pathway to acquire Portuguese citizenship by making a qualifying investment in the country and contributing to economic growth. This visa scheme speeds up the process for foreign nationals and non-EU/non-EEA citizens to obtain a legal residence permit in Portugal. Golden Visa holders are granted a temporary residence permit in exchange for making a minimum investment of at least €250,000. After five years of maintaining the temporary residence permit and their investment, Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence.

Portuguese citizenship by descent

The Portuguese citizenship law recognizes nationality through Jus Sanguini (right of blood, that is, citizenship derived from Portuguese ancestors) and Jus Soli (right of soil, which refers to persons born in Portuguese territory). This means that those with Portuguese ancestry may be eligible for Portuguese citizenship by descent.

You can apply for Portuguese citizenship by descent if you have a Portuguese ascendant. This means you would be eligible if you have Portuguese parents or at least one parent born in Portugal. You can also qualify via this route through a Portuguese grandparent who retained their nationality.

To acquire dual citizenship through this route, you must submit the birth certificates of your Portuguese parents stating that they were born in Portugal as proof of Portuguese descent.

The Portuguese government also lets you apply for citizenship by descent if you have a Portuguese grandparent. In this case, you must also submit the birth certificate of your Portuguese grandparent, confirming that they are Portuguese nationals. To qualify via this route, you must have lived in Portugal for at least three years and demonstrate ties to the Portuguese community (such as proficiency in the Portuguese language and cultural engagement).

For US citizens, it is important to note that if you have Portuguese parents or your parents have citizenship from another country, you may be granted citizenship and a second passport.

Portuguese citizenship by marriage: spousal eligibility

You can also obtain Portuguese citizenship through spousal eligibility. After being in a de facto relationship for three years with or married to a Portuguese citizen, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship. You must provide the required documents, such as a marriage certificate and a copy of your spouse’s Portuguese citizen card.

Portuguese law does not have a minimum residency requirement for this route, and your citizenship in Portugal will remain valid even if you divorce or separate in the future.

Portuguese citizenship under the Jewish Law of Return

The Portuguese parliament passed legislation in 2013 called the “Law of Return”, granting descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the Inquisition a path to citizenship. Eligibility hinges on proving Sephardic ancestry and affiliation with the Portugal Sephardic Jewish community. Unlike Israel’s Law of Return, requiring residency, Portugal primarily focuses on lineage and cultural ties to the Portuguese Sephardic community.

This program, however, faces potential changes, so it’s important to consult with immigration specialists or an immigration lawyer to make sure that you’re up to date with any changes to the legislation.

Portuguese citizenship by naturalization for foreign residents

Being a legal resident in Portugal for at least five years is one of the main routes to obtaining Portuguese nationality. This lengthy process, also referred to as citizenship by naturalization, requires that the applicant has a legal residence permit during the application period.

The naturalization process allows long-term residents to obtain Portuguese citizenship after meeting certain eligibility criteria, including Portuguese language proficiency (read about the Portuguese language test to learn more). Visa options such as the Portugal D3 Visa, Portugal D7 Visa, and Portugal D8 Visa follow a naturalization process and do not require an investment like the Portugal Golden Visa.

Non-EU foreign nationals residing in Portugal usually begin the journey with a temporary residence permit through one of Portugal’s visa options, valid for one year and renewable for two-year periods. After five years of holding a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. Both temporary and permanent residence permits will count towards the five-year residency requirement for naturalization.

Citizenship through residence in Portuguese overseas territories

You can claim Portuguese citizenship in certain cases if you are a resident of one of the following former Portuguese colonies:

• Angola
• Cabo Verde
• Portuguese India
• Guinea-Bissau
• East Timor
• Macao
• Mozambique
• São Tomé and Príncipe

You will, however, need to prove that you are either a descendant of Portuguese nationals or part of a community that practices Portuguese values and traditions.

Visa Options for Americans Moving to Portugal for Dual Citizenship

Portugal Golden Visa program

The Portugal Golden Visa Program, also known as the residence permit for investment activity, is a five-year residency-by-investment program for non-EU nationals. The Portuguese Golden Visa program enables investors to obtain residency and, eventually, become Portuguese citizens by making financial contributions to a selection of investment options in Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa requirements

To qualify for the program, you must fulfill the following Golden Visa requirements for Portugal:

• Have a clean criminal record
• Be either non-EU, non-Swiss, or non-EEA national
• Minimum investment of €250,000, with a range of investment routes, including investment or donation in the arts or reconstruction of national heritage, scientific research, creating at least ten jobs, and a subscription to a venture capital or private equity fund.
• Meet all legal requirements, including an average of 7 days spent per year in Portugal, guaranteeing a total of 14 days during the validity of each residence card (issued with a validity of 2 years)

The ultimate guide to the Portuguese Golden Visa investment program includes the latest updates and changes, including the documents required by the Portuguese Consulate and AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), the application process, and the relevant processing time.

Portugal D3 Visa

The Portugal D3 Visa, also known as a Highly Qualified Activity Permit, was introduced by the Portuguese government to attract highly qualified workers to the country. This special long-term stay visa is an option for professionals with an employment opportunity or a self-employed contract to provide services to a Portuguese company. The D3 Visa Portugal is also a path towards permanent residence and Portuguese and EU citizenship. After five years of living permanently in Portugal, D3 Visa holders can apply to obtain Portuguese citizenship.

To apply for the D3 Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate, you must already have a valid employment contract or a self-employed contract and fulfill these requirements:

• A clean criminal record, proven by a criminal record certificate
• That the activity to be developed is framed as a highly qualified activity and that the professional proves adequate qualifications or experience to carry it out
• The contract is for an indefinite period or at least one year
• Provide evidence that your expected annual salary is at least 1.5 times the national average gross annual salary or three times the social support index (IAS)*. However, for employment in professions considered particularly in need of third-country nationals, 1.2 times the national average gross wage or twice the IAS value is permitted.

Portugal D7 Visa

You can also obtain citizenship through the Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa. The D7 residency visa offers non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens the option to apply for residency in Portugal, provided that they have sufficient passive income that amounts to more than the Portuguese minimum wage and is enough to sustain their lifestyle without the need to work in Portugal.

After five years of holding a legal residence permit through the D7 Visa, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship. To be eligible for the D7 Visa in Portugal, the requirements include:

• Be a non-EU citizen
• Meet the minimum passive income requirements: earn a sufficient passive income above the minimum wage of at least €820.00 per month (your income can be foreign-sourced pension income, rental income, or transferable equity)
• Have a rental agreement and can provide a residential address in Portugal.
• Have a clean criminal record (You cannot have a criminal conviction for a crime that is punishable by a prison sentence of more than one year in Portugal).
• You can spend a minimum of 16 months in Portugal on your temporary visa within the initial two-year period.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Tailored for remote workers and self-employed expats seeking to live and work in Portugal, the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa provides a flexible lifestyle for those contributing to Portugal’s digital landscape and the Portuguese economy.

There are two ways you can go about applying for the D8 Visa Portugal:

• Apply for a Temporary Stay Visa (short stay visa) for up to one year or
• Apply for a residence permit or Residence Visa that can be renewed for up to five years.

If you obtain a residency visa after five years, you can apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, provided you fulfill all the requirements. With citizenship, you will have the right to live, work, and study in any EU country.

The eligibility requirement for US citizens who wish to apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is that they meet the income prerequisite of €3,280 monthly.

Family Reunification Visa

The Portugal Family Reunification Visa or the Portugal D6 Visa is a residence program that reunites families by allowing Portuguese residents or those who have already obtained Portuguese nationality to have their non-EU family members join them in Portugal to become legal residents or obtain Portuguese citizenship.

Family members such as a spouse, child, an adopted child, and dependent parents are eligible for the Portuguese D6 Family Visa.

Find the step-by-step guide, eligibility requirements, and application process in D6 Visa Portugal: A Comprehensive Guide to The Family Reunification Visa.

How to Get Dual Citizenship In Portugal: The Application Process

US citizen requirements for obtaining Portuguese citizenship

US citizens may become Portuguese citizens by naturalization after living in Portugal for more than five years and showing proficiency in the Portuguese language unless they are married to or in a de facto union with a Portuguese citizen. In that case, US citizens can apply for Portuguese citizenship without fulfilling the five-year residency requirement. You must provide a long-form birth certificate for both parties.

If applying for Portuguese citizenship after obtaining legal residency, your application should include:

• A criminal record certified by AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum)
• Evidence of your fluency in the Portuguese language,
• A clean health record
• Proof of your Portuguese residency.

Portuguese citizenship application process for Americans

Navigating the application process involves submitting the required documentation and complying with Portuguese immigration laws. It’s important to note that working with a Portugal immigration lawyer when pursuing Portuguese citizenship can make the process easier for you.

Portuguese citizenship application process:

• Fill out the application form
• Submit a certified copy of all the necessary documents with the application fees
• Send your application along with all supporting documentation to the Portuguese Consulate (if you’re applying from your home country) or the Registry Office (if you’re applying from Portugal) for processing
• Once you submit your application form, it will be processed by the Registry Office, which will decide whether or not they believe that you qualify for Portuguese citizenship.
• Should you not be eligible for Portuguese citizenship, you will be informed by the Registry Office and given a reason.
• If you are eligible, the Registry Office will send you an official letter of congratulations and inform you that your Portuguese citizenship application has been approved.

The Best Cities in Portugal for Americans with Portuguese Dual Citizenship

US citizens looking to move to Portugal and attain Portuguese citizenship will be spoiled for choice with the amazing cities and quaint towns offering a high-quality lifestyle in this beautiful EU country. You can tour the 13 best places to live in Portugal for expats, but for now, here are three top-tier options to consider:

Lisbon

As the capital of Portugal and having a growing expat community, Lisbon is one of the best places for US citizens to live in Portugal. This vibrant city offers exciting tourist attractions and access to essential services, including administrative offices, banks, an international airport, and hospitals providing quality healthcare. As contemporary and high-quality life in Lisbon is, learning to speak the Portuguese language will make integrating into the Portuguese community easier and your transition to life in Portugal seamless.

Porto

If you’re a US citizen looking for a smaller city offering a slower pace and lower living costs compared to the Portuguese capital, then Porto could be the right fit. As the second largest city in Portugal, Porto offers Portuguese nationals and expats alike a relaxed pace of life, beautiful scenery, a great selection of tourist attractions, and last but not least, good Port wine. Even though it is a smaller city, Porto still provides the essential services you need for convenience, including an international airport, hospitals providing quality healthcare, and even international schools.

Braga

Braga is a beautiful city in Northern Portugal and an ideal choice for US citizens looking for a quiet lifestyle, low-cost living, and easily accessible visa-free travel. Famed for its rich cultural and religious history, Braga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Portuguese National Monument that has developed a thriving business hub in recent years. The quaint Portuguese city is easy to navigate, offers quality healthcare facilities, has an international school, and is home to an incredible selection of tourist attractions and restaurants.

Why Choose Global Citizen Solutions for Your Dual Citizenship Journey?

GLOBAL APPROACH BY LOCAL EXPERTS

• GCS has offices located across Portugal.
• Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal, and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
• Our expert team can help you throughout your journey to securing Portuguese citizenship.

100% APPROVAL RATE

• Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to Portuguese citizenship applicants.
• We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.

ALL-ENCOMPASSING SOLUTION

• With a single communication channel, our approach ensures you have complete access to relevant information.
• Our BeGlobal® Onboarding System allows for a total flow of information.

TRANSPARENCY AND PRIVACY

• Our pricing is clear and detailed, you will not face any hidden costs.
• All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server

Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Citizenship Portugal USA

Can a US citizen get Portuguese citizenship?

Yes, US citizens can obtain Portuguese citizenship through various pathways, including investment, descent, marriage, and naturalization. For a US citizen interested in obtaining Portuguese citizenship based on naturalization, there are various visa options to consider, including the Portugal Golden Visa program, Portugal D3 Visa, Portugal D7 Visa, Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, and the Family Reunification Visa

Can you have dual citizenship with the US and Portugal?

Yes, Portugal is known for its welcoming approach to obtaining dual citizenship. The country allows not only dual citizenship but also triple citizenship – meaning US citizens can hold Portuguese citizenship and that of the United States – and another country simultaneously.

What are the benefits of having dual citizenship in Portugal as a citizen?

There are many advantages of dual citizenship for Americans. Including the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, visa-free travel within the European Union, and a favorable quality of life.

Once you become a Portuguese citizen, you will enjoy dual passports, dual nationality for family members, expanded visa-free travel with two valid passports, access to more healthcare services, increased social security, and increased property ownership rights

Will having Portugal dual citizenship affect my US citizenship?

No, the United States allows dual citizenship without risking an individual’s US citizenship status. Portuguese law does not require you to renounce your current citizenship when acquiring Portuguese citizenship, making it a particularly attractive option for US citizens looking to expand their international horizons.

This flexibility allows individuals with Portuguese citizenship to enjoy the benefits of both nations, such as easier travel within the European Union and multiple residency options.

How do I get dual citizenship in the USA and Portugal?

You can be granted Portuguese citizenship as a citizen of the United States through marriage, descent, birth, the naturalization process, or citizenship by investment through the Portugal Golden Visa program.

The process involves meeting eligibility criteria; and possessing a valid marriage certificate, birth certificate in case an applicant has Portuguese parents, or proof of investment.

How long does it take to get Portuguese dual citizenship?

The timeline for acquiring Portuguese citizenship varies depending on the chosen route towards Portugal dual citizenship. Investment, descent, or marriage can influence the application period.

Can a US citizen get a Portuguese passport?

Yes, upon obtaining Portuguese citizenship, US citizens will receive a citizen card and can apply for a Portuguese passport. They can submit the passport application either online or at a Portuguese passport office (Loja do Cidadão).

How do I get a Portuguese passport?

After acquiring Portuguese citizenship, you can obtain a Portuguese passport online or by visiting a passport office. Portuguese law mandates that a dual citizen use their Portuguese passport for entry and exit. With diverse pathways and the assistance of services like Global Citizen Solutions, becoming a dual citizen is both accessible and rewarding.

To apply, visit a local “Loja do Cidadão” or Portuguese civil registry office, or a Portuguese embassy or consulate abroad, provide the required documentation, and pay the application fee.

What are the Portugal dual citizenship requirements?

Portugal allows dual citizenship, but acquiring it requires specific criteria. You may qualify through lineage (Portuguese parents or grandparents with residency) or long-term residency (marriage, minimum years of legal residence). Basic Portuguese language proficiency and a clear criminal record are generally necessary.

What are the common reasons applications for dual citizenship in Portugal are denied?

Common reasons for denial of Portuguese citizenship include incomplete or incorrect documentation, failure to meet residency requirements, or issues related to criminal records.

How does Portugal’s dual citizenship policy compare to other European countries?

Portugal’s dual citizenship policy is relatively flexible compared to other European countries, as it does not require renouncing existing citizenship and offers multiple pathways to citizenship.