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Portuguese Citizenship for Children of Portuguese Nationals: 2021 Guide
Following the 2020 nationality law reforms, children of Portuguese citizens have clearer paths to citizenship regardless of where they were born.
The 2020 nationality law reforms significantly improved access to Portuguese citizenship for children of Portuguese nationals.
Citizenship by Attribution
Children of Portuguese citizens may be Portuguese by birth in several scenarios:
Born in Portugal
Children born in Portugal to at least one Portuguese parent are Portuguese citizens automatically.
Born Abroad
Children born abroad to Portuguese parents can claim citizenship:
- Automatic if: Born to a Portuguese parent who was also born in Portugal
- Registration required if: Born to a Portuguese parent who acquired citizenship or was born abroad
Registration Process
For children who need to register their citizenship:
Required Documents
- Birth certificate of the child (apostilled if foreign)
- Birth certificate of Portuguese parent
- Parents’ marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of Portuguese parent’s citizenship
- Identity documents
Where to Register
- Portuguese consulate in country of residence
- Civil registry office (Conservatória) if in Portugal
Processing Time
- Varies by consulate and case complexity
- Typically 3-12 months
Adult Children
Adult children of Portuguese nationals can also apply:
- Same basic requirements apply
- No age limit for registration
- May need additional documentation for longer time periods
Dual Citizenship
Portugal generally allows dual citizenship:
- No requirement to renounce other nationalities
- Check rules in your country of current citizenship
The reforms make it significantly easier for the Portuguese diaspora to reconnect with their heritage and obtain citizenship for themselves and their descendants.