The Socialist Party has requested a preventive constitutional review of the new Citizenship Law, arguing violations of equality, proportionality, and legitimate expectations. This may affect ongoing residence-based applications, especially regarding the start of residence-time calculations and the lack of transitional rules. The Constitutional Court will decide within 25 working days (or 8 days under urgent procedure).
Portugal’s President has confirmed that he will wait for the Constitutional Court to issue its preventive review of the proposed Nationality Law — following a formal request submitted by the Socialist Party (PS).
This means the legislative process is temporarily on hold, and the law cannot advance to promulgation until the Court evaluates its constitutional conformity. For foreign residents, investors and applicants pursuing Portuguese citizenship, this step reinforces the need for patience and strategic planning, as timelines may shift depending on the Court’s analysis.
This procedural move may delay the law’s enactment and introduces further legal scrutiny into the eligibility, criteria and timeframe for citizenship applications.
The New Nationality Law introduces the following changes into the new nationality law
- Increase the naturalization time to 10 years (CPLP citizens 7 years)
- No transitional rules or provisions.
- Denaturalization occurs for those with criminal background.
- Start of residence period from the date of residence permit issued (replacing counting period from date of filing application)
- Stricter rules for integration, culture increasing ties to the country.
For investors, long-term residents and international applicants considering Portugal, this signals the importance of professional guidance — during periods of legal uncertainty, having a robust strategy is crucial.
AIMA
AIMA has issued 386,000 residence permits in 2025, marking a 60% increase compared to 2024. AIMA has increased processing capacity of backlogs by increasing staff and expedited decisions on residence permits. The surge reflects Portugal’s continued success in attracting international residents, students, investors, and skilled professionals.
Citizen Services
The Government has approved a new decree-law to modernise the Lojas do Cidadão (Citizen Service Centres) — expanding service hours, reducing bureaucracy, and introducing a virtual platform with more than 100 online services. For residents, expats, and international investors, this reform means greater efficiency and accessibility when handling residency, citizenship, or administrative processes.
Portugal Shines
More than 1.5 million foreign nationals now hold legal residence in Portugal — a record number that underscores the country’s growing appeal for immigration, investment, and relocation.
Portugal’s continued as a leading destination highly appealing for international investors mainly due growing reputation as a place where well-being, safety, and lifestyle quality meet opportunity.
