Portugal Tightens Citizenship Rules Under New Immigration Law
Portugal’s new Immigration Law has been signed into effect by President António José Seguro. The legislation introduces stricter rules for foreigners seeking citizenship and residency in the country. The law was approved by a coalition of right-leaning parties, including PSD, Chega, Iniciativa Liberal (IL), and CDS-PP. It received final approval on Sunday when the president signed it into force.
Under the updated rules, residency requirements for citizenship have been extended. Applicants must now demonstrate stronger and more concrete ties to Portugal before qualifying. The changes also remove any transitional period, meaning the new criteria apply immediately. The legislation officially took effect upon publication in the *Diário da República*. No grace period has been granted for those already in the process of applying.
The law marks a shift in Portugal’s approach to immigration and naturalisation. Foreign residents will now face tougher conditions when applying for citizenship or long-term residency. All new applications must meet the updated standards from the moment of publication.
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