Pedido de Nacionalidade Portuguesa (Portuguese Nationality Application)
Apply for Portuguese nationality by birth, marriage, descent or naturalisation. Learn about the requirements, documents and step-by-step process.
What you need before you start
- Valid identification document (passport or foreign identity card)
- Applicant's birth certificate
- Criminal record from country of origin and Portugal
- Proof of legal residence in Portugal (minimum 5 years, for naturalisation)
- Proof of connection to Portugal (language proficiency, family ties, etc.)
- Application fee (varies depending on acquisition type)
Step by step
Check if you meet the requirements for the desired pathway (birth, marriage, descent or naturalisation)
Gather all required documents (some may need certified translation and apostille)
Go to the Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil) or Nationality Desk
Alternatively, send the application by post to the Central Registry Office in Lisbon
Fill in the application form and submit the documents
Pay the applicable fee
Track the process at justica.gov.pt (requires access password)
The decision timeframe varies: from a few months to over 1 year depending on complexity
Tip: If in doubt, always contact the official service directly.
Ready to get started?
Go to Pedido de Nacionalidade Portuguesa (Portuguese Nationality Application)