Portugal: residency, citizenship and cost of living

Path to citizenship

A new citizenship law is in force since 19 May 2026: 7 years for nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries and the EU, 10 years for everyone else, and time counts only from the date the first residence permit is issued — waiting for a decision does not count. Dual citizenship is allowed. Investment routes (Golden Visa) are not modelled.

• • 10 years of legal residence with a permit, language and culture
• • 7 years for nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries
• • 7 years for EU citizens
• • By declaration as the spouse of a Portuguese citizen (marriage or union of more than 3 years)

Citizenship application processing, years: 2–3.

Monthly budget

Average lifestyle, employed; data as of 10.2026. Deposits, furniture and the move itself are not included.

Country scores (out of 100)

• Safety83
• Earning potential78
• Healthcare83
• Path to citizenship16
• Schools and education74
• Environment85
• Warm, sunny climate89

Frequently asked questions

News for this country

• 4 November 2026
  How to choose a country to move to: 8 questions to ask yourself first

Sources

• Citizenship Act No. 37/81 as amended by Organic Law No. 1/2026 (in force since 19 May 2026)
• Marriage or de facto union with a Portuguese citizen for more than 3 years — citizenship by declaration (art. 3, with new requirements of Organic Law No. 1/2026)
• Residence permit
• IRN president