Does Portugal Allow Dual Citizenship? A Complete Guide in 2025
- Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
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Thinking about acquiring a second passport without giving up your citizenship? You’re not alone. With rising interest in global mobility, access to the EU, and favorable tax regimes, many are now asking: Does Portugal allow dual citizenship?
Yes, it does—and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From eligibility and application routes to benefits and documentation, we’ll provide a step-by-step breakdown tailored to citizens seeking Portuguese dual citizenship.
Interested in other countries that allow dual citizenship? Browse our citizenship by investment programs for more global options.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship, also known as dual nationality, means you are legally recognized as a citizen of two countries. This status allows you to enjoy the rights, protections, and obligations of both nations.
Why Dual Citizenship Matters
- Visa-free travel to more countries
- Right to live, work, and study in both countries
- Tax planning flexibility
- Property ownership in both jurisdictions
Portugal is among the best countries for dual citizenship in 2025, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality while gaining access to the European Union’s rights and privileges.
Want to know which other nations offer dual nationality? Explore our complete list of countries that allow dual citizenship
Does Portugal Allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Portugal allows dual and even multiple citizenship. Portuguese nationality law does not require you to renounce your original citizenship when becoming Portuguese. That means U.S. citizens can hold both American and Portuguese passports simultaneously.
Does the U.S. Allow Dual Citizenship with Portuguese Citizenship?
And, the United States recognizes dual citizenship, although it does not encourage it. American citizens are allowed to acquire Portuguese citizenship without losing their U.S. status.
This is great news for:
- Americans of Portuguese descent
- Investors using Portugal’s Golden Visa
- Expats relocating for work, retirement, or lifestyle reasons
Curious about Turkey’s stance? Read: Does Turkey Allow Dual Citizenship?
Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Portugal
Holding dual citizenship allows individuals to live, work, and vote in both Portugal and their other country of nationality, along with enjoying easier travel between the two nations. However, dual citizens are required to comply with the laws of both countries and may also face tax responsibilities in each, depending on the respective regulations.
Portugal offers more than just beautiful coastlines. Becoming a Portuguese citizen comes with extensive rights and privileges.
Visa-Free Travel and EU Access
As a Portuguese national, you can travel freely across all 27 EU and Schengen countries without needing additional visas. This means hassle-free tourism, business travel, and short-term stays throughout Europe. Additionally, Portuguese passport holders benefit from visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries, making it one of the strongest passports globally.
Live, Work, and Study in the EU
Enjoy full rights to live, work, or study in any EU member state—a significant advantage for U.S. citizens or other non-EU nationals seeking broader career or educational prospects. Portuguese citizenship grants access to public healthcare, education, and social security systems across the EU. Students also benefit from in-state tuition rates and grants at many European universities.
High Quality of Life
Portugal is renowned for its safe cities, modern healthcare system, low cost of living, and pleasant climate. It ranked 7th globally on the 2024 Global Peace Index, reflecting its strong political stability and low crime rates. The country also boasts a thriving expat community, particularly in cities like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, where English is widely spoken and digital nomads find a welcoming environment.
Investment Opportunities
Portuguese citizenship facilitates access to the country’s growing property and business sectors. Real estate remains a popular choice, especially under the Golden Visa and D7 Visa programs, which encourage foreign investment. Citizens can also easily establish businesses, open bank accounts, and access EU grants or funding, giving them a competitive edge in the European market.
If you are thinking about Caribbean citizenship too, compare with St. Lucia’s extended passport program
How to Get Dual Citizenship in Portugal
For U.S. citizens, there are multiple legal pathways to obtain Portuguese dual citizenship. Each route has specific eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and processing timelines.
You can secure your second passport with expert help. Contact Premium Citizen for a free consultation on your eligibility and options.
Overview of the Citizenship Application Process
Whether you’re applying through descent, naturalization, marriage, or investment, the application process generally includes:
- Gathering required documents (birth certificate, proof of ancestry, etc.)
- Passing a Portuguese language test (A2 CEFR level)
- Submitting your application to the IRN (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado) or a Portuguese consulate
- Paying applicable government fees
- Waiting for processing, which can take from 6 months to 2 years
U.S. citizens should confirm eligibility under both U.S. and Portuguese laws before applying.
Key Requirements for U.S. Citizens
To be eligible for Portuguese dual nationality, most applicants must meet the following:
- Clean criminal record in both countries
- Basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2 level)
- Legal residency in Portugal for 5 years (except for marriage or descent paths)
- Documented proof of ancestry (if applying via descent)
- Valid passport and identification
- Application form and written request to the Ministry of Justice
Need help collecting your documents? Get expert guidance—contact our immigration consultants today.
Pathways to Portuguese Citizenship
Portugal offers multiple routes to citizenship, each tailored to different life circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options for Americans.
Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)
If you have Portuguese parents or grandparents, you may already be eligible.
Eligibility Criteria:
- At least one parent or grandparent is/was a Portuguese national
- The ancestor did not renounce Portuguese citizenship
- You can prove a cultural connection to Portugal (language, community ties
- Birth must be registered in the Portuguese Civil Registry
Documents Needed:
- Birth certificates (yours and ancestors)
- Proof of lineage
- Criminal record clearance
- Portuguese language proof (may be waived in some descent cases)
✔ This pathway is free of government fees in many cases.
Citizenship by Naturalization
This is the standard route for foreigners who have legally lived in Portugal.
Requirements:
- 5 years of legal residency in Portugal (continuous or non-continuous)
- A2-level Portuguese language proficiency
- Clean criminal background
- Valid residence permit
You can gain Portugal residency through routes like:
- Portugal residency by investment
- D7 Passive Income Visa
- Skilled Worker or Digital Nomad Visas
Citizenship by Marriage
If you’re married to a Portuguese national, you may apply after 3 years of legal marriage or registered partnership.
Notes:
- No need to live in Portugal
- Must prove language proficiency or cultural integration
- Must show marriage has been stable and continuous
Citizenship by Adoption
Children adopted by Portuguese citizens may qualify if:
- The child is under 18
- Legal procedures are completed
- They meet residency or cultural integration criteria
Citizenship by Investment (Golden Visa Program)
A popular path for high-net-worth individuals. Applicants gain residency first, and after 5 years, may apply for citizenship.
Qualifying Investments:
- Real estate (€500,000+)
- Investment funds (€500,000+)
- Capital transfer (€1 million+)
- Creating 10+ local jobs
- Donations to research or culture
Explore more fast-track routes for citizenship by investment :
👉 Grenada Citizenship by Investment
👉 Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment
👉 Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment
Find out if you qualify for Portuguese dual citizenship via investment. Get your personalized citizenship by investment now.
Visa Options for U.S. Citizens Moving to Portugal
Before applying for Portuguese citizenship, most Americans will need to obtain legal residency first. Portugal offers several visa options, each tailored to different income sources, lifestyles, and long-term goals.
D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa)
Ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those with income from investments or pensions.
Requirements:
- Proof of stable passive income (e.g., $8,460+ per year for a single applicant)
- Clean criminal background
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Private health insurance
Start your journey with our Portugal Residency by Investment Program
D3 Visa (Highly Skilled Workers)
Aimed at professionals with advanced qualifications in science, tech, education, or management.
Requirements:
- Job offer or work contract from a Portuguese company
- Degree or proof of specialized skills
- Salary at least 1.5x the national average
Digital Nomad Visa
Launched in 2022, this visa allows remote workers to live in Portugal while working for foreign companies.
Eligibility:
- Minimum monthly income of around €3,040
- Remote employment or freelance work
- Proof of income and accommodation
Golden Visa Program
The Portugal Golden Visa offers residency through investment, leading to citizenship after five years.
Investment Options Include:
- €500,000 in real estate
- €500,000 in Portuguese investment funds
- €250,000 in cultural preservation
- €350,000 in scientific research
Family Reunification Visa
Spouses, dependent children, and parents of visa holders or residents can apply for this visa, enabling families to move together.
Documents and Legal Requirements for Portuguese Citizenship
Once you’ve fulfilled the residency or eligibility pathway, the next step is to prepare your citizenship application documents. Essential Documents Checklist:
| Document Type | Description |
| Birth Certificate | Translated and apostilled |
| Proof of Residency | Rental contract, utility bills, or SEF-issued certificate |
| Marriage Certificate | Required if applying via marriage |
| Criminal Record Certificate | From the U.S. and any countries you’ve resided in the past 5 years |
| Proof of Financial Means | Applicable for investment or D7 visa applicants |
| Language Test Certificate | Certifies A2-level Portuguese proficiency |
| Application Form + Fees | Submitted through IRN or a Portuguese consulate (e.g., Consulate of Portugal in Boston) |
Portuguese Language Test: CIPLE A2
Unless you qualify for an exemption, you must take a language proficiency test to show basic conversational Portuguese.
Exemptions Apply If You:
- Are over 60 years old
- Have lived in Portugal for 5+ years
- Are illiterate or have learning disabilities
- Are married to a Portuguese national
Application Fees
| Route | Estimated Fee (EUR) |
| By Descent | Free |
| Naturalization | €250 |
| By Marriage (under 18/disabled) | €200 |
Let our legal experts assist you with document authentication, translations, and submission. Book a free eligibility review to get started.
Best Places to Live in Portugal for Dual Citizens
Once you’ve secured dual citizenship, these are the top cities offering a high quality of life, vibrant expat communities, and strong infrastructure.
Lisbon
The capital offers:
- Diverse job market
- International schools
- Active expat scene
- Access to embassies and government offices
Porto
Known for:
- Lower cost of living than Lisbon
- Beautiful riverside setting
- Growing startup ecosystem
- Rich food and wine culture
Braga
Ideal for families and retirees:
- One of Europe’s oldest cities
- Peaceful and affordable
- Excellent healthcare
- Slower pace of life
Also consider combining citizenship options with residency investments in Greece residency by investment or Latvia residency by investment for strategic benefits.
Let us help you plan your move, from citizenship processing to choosing where to live in Portugal. Talk to our Portugal relocation experts now
Common Questions About U.S.–Portugal Dual Citizenship
This section addresses the most frequently asked questions by U.S. citizens considering Portuguese dual citizenship. Answers are concise, trustworthy, and designed to match real search queries.
Can a U.S. Citizen Get Portuguese Citizenship?
Yes. U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship through descent, naturalization, marriage, or investment, without losing their American passport.
Can You Have Dual Citizenship With the U.S. and Portugal?
Yes, both Portugal and the U.S. recognize dual citizenship. You are not required to renounce either nationality.
How Long Does It Take to Get Portuguese Dual Citizenship?
Timelines vary based on your route:
- Descent: 6–12 months (if documentation is complete)
- Naturalization: 1.5–2 years
- Marriage: 1–2 years
- Golden Visa to Citizenship: 5 years minimum for eligibility
What Are the Portuguese Dual Citizenship Requirements?
- Proof of residency or ancestry
- A2-level Portuguese language skills
- Clean criminal record
- Application submission with complete documentation
Will Having Portugal Dual Citizenship Affect My U.S. Citizenship?
No. The U.S. government permits its citizens to hold multiple nationalities. You maintain all your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen, including tax obligations and voting rights.
For legal and tax planning, consult both a U.S. and Portuguese tax advisor.
Can a U.S. Citizen Get a Portuguese Passport?
Yes. Once your citizenship application is approved, you can apply for a Portuguese passport, ranked 3rd globally in 2025 for travel freedom.
What Are Common Reasons Applications Are Denied?
- Incomplete or unverified documentation
- Criminal background
- Failing the language requirement
- Lack of connection to Portugal (in descent/marriage cases)
How Does Portugal’s Dual Citizenship Policy Compare to Other Countries?
Portugal is among the most flexible countries for second nationality. Unlike some nations, Portugal:
- Does not require renunciation
- Permits multiple nationalities
- Offers diverse routes (e.g., investment, descent, residency)
Explore Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment or Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment for faster, lower-cost alternatives.
Final Thoughts: Is Portugal the Right Choice for Dual Citizenship?
Portugal offers one of the most attractive dual citizenship pathways for U.S. citizens. Whether you’re drawn by its EU access, quality of life, flexible visa programs, or tax benefits—Portugal makes becoming a global citizen both legal and attainable.
Unlike other nations that impose strict renunciation rules, Portugal’s dual citizenship policy is inclusive and modern, aligning well with U.S. laws. Whether you’re eligible through ancestry, residency, marriage, or investment, the opportunities are broad, and the benefits long-term.
Why Choose Portugal for Dual Citizenship?
- EU mobility: Live, work, and study in 27 European countries
- No renunciation required: Keep your U.S. passport
- Golden Visa investment options for long-term strategic planners
- High passport power: Access to 179+ visa-free countries
- Top-tier education, healthcare, and quality of life
Looking for other EU options? Compare
Ready to Apply for Portuguese Dual Citizenship?
At Premium Citizen, we’ve helped hundreds of U.S. applicants navigate Portugal’s legal system, compile their documents, and gain EU nationality. Whether you need full representation or just advice, we’re here to help. Contact Us Now for a Free Eligibility Review
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