The Possibility of Applying for Portuguese Citizenship Will Take Longer, but Few Foreigners Know That They May Still Apply for Permanent Residence After Five Years of Legal Residence in Portugal
One of the greatest misconceptions created by the recent legislative changes is the idea that a foreign national will remain in a legal limbo for ten years without any stability or legal certainty.
This is not true.
What Happens After Five Years of Legal Residence?
Even with the changes to the Nationality Law, it is still possible to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit—which also expands access to rights in other Member States of the European Union—after five years of legal residence in Portugal.
To submit this application, it is generally necessary to demonstrate:
- Basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level);
- No criminal convictions;
- Maintenance of lawful status in Portuguese territory;
- Sufficient means of subsistence;
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
The Language Requirement
Knowledge of the Portuguese language is generally demonstrated through an A2 level certificate. Many foreigners are unaware that they can obtain this certification through public language-learning programmes intended for adults.
Portugal offers free Portuguese as a Host Language (PLA) courses provided by public schools and training centres. Alternatively, the applicant may take a certified Portuguese language examination officially recognised by the Portuguese State (CIPLE-CAPLE).
What If the Temporary Residence Permit Expires and, After Five Years of Legal Residence, the Immigrant Still Does Not Speak Portuguese?
Even in this situation, the foreign national does not lose the right to remain legally in Portugal. They may continue renewing their temporary residence permit under the terms provided by law, for identical and successive periods of validity.
As mentioned above, the possibility of applying for Portuguese nationality and strengthening the individual’s connection with the Portuguese community is only one of the possible stages of integration into the national territory.
