Portuguese Nationality: How to Obtain by Filiation and Marriage

Obtaining Portuguese nationality can be an important and advantageous process for many people. In this article, we will explore the two main ways of acquiring Portuguese nationality: by filiation and by marriage.

Portuguese Nationality by Filiation

Portuguese nationality by filiation is a right for those who have Portuguese parents. This process can be simplified depending on the documentation available and the location of the parents’ birth records.

Conditions for Obtaining Portuguese Nationality by Filiation

To apply for Portuguese nationality by filiation, you must:

• Being born abroad.
• Have a Portuguese mother or father.
• Declare the intention to acquire Portuguese nationality.

Required documents

The following documents are required for the process:

• Identification document of the applicant.
• The applicant’s birth certificate, legalized and, if necessary, translated.
• Birth certificate of the Portuguese parent or sufficient information to locate them.
• Declaration of acquisition of Portuguese nationality, signed in the presence of a Registry official or notarized.

In the context of legal advice, the lawyer will be able to identify other documents that are essential to the specific case. Documents that, even if they are not on the official list of documents, are essential for the purpose.

Where to order

The request can be made in various ways:

• Online: for newborns up to 1 year old or through a proxy.
• In person: at migrant integration support centers, nationality offices, civil registry offices, or at the local Portuguese consulate.
• By post: sending the documents to the Central Registry Office in Lisbon.
• Lawyer: Lawyers have access to the online system and can make the presentation in person or via this system.

Portuguese Nationality by Marriage

Portuguese nationality by marriage is available to spouses of Portuguese citizens, provided they meet certain requirements.

Requirements for Nationality by Marriage

If the marriage took place after October 3, 1981, the foreign spouse can apply for Portuguese nationality under the following conditions:

• Marriage of at least 3 years and a child with Portuguese nationality transmitted by the Portuguese parent.
• Marriage of at least 6 years if there are no children of Portuguese nationality.

Required documents

For the process of nationality by marriage, the following are required:

• The applicant’s birth certificate, issued less than a year ago and apostilled.
• Birth certificate by photocopy from the applicant’s registry book, issued less than a year ago and apostilled.
• A criminal record certificate from Brazil and all countries where the applicant has lived after the age of 16.
• A notarized copy of the applicant’s identity card or passport.
• Portuguese marriage certificate of the Portuguese spouse.

In the context of legal advice, the lawyer will be able to identify other documents that are essential to the specific case. Documents that, even if they are not on the official list of documents, are essential for the purpose.

Costs and Order Formalization

• Cost: 250 euros.
• Payment: Must be made by international credit card directly to the Central Registry Office.
• Formalization: After payment, complete and send the form together with the necessary documents to the Central Registry Office or via a lawyer. Lawyers have access to the online system and can make the presentation in person or via this system.

Warnings

The declaration of nationality may be rejected in certain situations, and the applicant will be notified to present new arguments. If the rejection is upheld, the amount paid will not be refunded.

Final considerations

Obtaining Portuguese nationality can be a complex process, but it is a valuable opportunity for those with family ties to Portugal. To ensure that all documents are correct and complete, and to avoid delays and complications, it is highly recommended to seek specialized legal advice.

The Importance of Specialized Legal Advice

Legal advice can offer essential support at various stages of the process, including:

• Clarifications to the Authorities: Respond to any requests and clarifications required by the Portuguese Authorities.
• Defense of Interests: Protecting the client’s interests by ruling out non-relevant demands that may arise.
• Facilitating Communication: Facilitating and speeding up communication with the Central Registry Office, avoiding unnecessary delays, especially when the lawyer is registered in Portugal and has its head office there.

Choosing the right lawyer

Only lawyers registered with the Portuguese Bar Association can represent clients before the Registry Office. It is essential to check the lawyer’s professional qualifications to ensure that they are properly qualified to practice in Portugal. This is crucial not only for the protection of the applicant’s and family’s personal data, but also to avoid legal problems related to illicit solicitors, which are rigorously combated by the authorities and the Portuguese Bar Association.

Check your lawyer’s qualification on the Bar Association’s website: Bar Association – Verification of Registration. Dr. Vivian Perfeito’s registration number is OA 56.010P

Need help?

If you need additional assistance or would like personalized guidance, contact a lawyer specializing in Portuguese nationality. An experienced professional can help you navigate the process, ensuring that all rights are truly defended.