The Portuguese Parliament has postponed the vote on proposed amendments to the Portuguese immigration law until September 2025. This decision emerged from the Committee on Constitutional Affairs, Rights, Freedoms, and Guarantees after several political parties sought more time to evaluate the proposed reforms that directly impact visa holders and those planning to move to Portugal.

The delay allows for further consultations with legal experts, immigrant associations, and civil society representatives before a final plenary vote. This provides a crucial window for current visa holders and prospective applicants to understand their options and take action.

The proposed reform includes significant changes to how Portuguese nationality is acquired through the immigration process. These changes aim to modify the current legal framework and have sparked considerable debate among political parties and immigrant communities. For visa holders and those planning to move to Portugal, understanding these changes is crucial for planning your citizenship journey.

Extended Residency Requirements

One of the most notable changes is the extension of the minimum legal residence period required for naturalisation:

Citizenship Revocation Mechanisms

The reform introduces new mechanisms for revoking Portuguese nationality under certain conditions:

Birthright Citizenship Adjustments

Changes also affect the acquisition of Portuguese nationality through birth:

The reform proposals have not yet achieved political consensus, primarily due to concerns raised by left-wing parties:

In response, the parliamentary committee has agreed to further expert hearings scheduled for early September, with a final vote expected later that month.

Current Law Status

Until these amendments are officially adopted:

The proposed amendments to Portuguese immigration law could significantly alter the path to Portuguese citizenship and affect your plans to move to Portugal permanently. As the parliamentary process continues, it remains essential for current visa holders and prospective applicants to stay informed and prepare for potential changes. The window of opportunity under current legislation is narrowing - taking action now could be crucial for your citizenship timeline.