Citizenship significantly impacts opportunities, which is why most wealthy entrepreneurs try to hold two or more citizenship. This way, they enjoy a loyal tax system and the benefits of a visa-free regime. There are different ways to get new opportunities. The choice of the best one depends on personal preferences.
Many states have created exchange programs, and Portugal Residence by investment is just one of them. A brief overview of the options will help you evaluate the offer’s attractiveness and find a quick and easy way to get the desired passport. This material was created with the advice of Callan Richardson, an expert at Imin Portugal.
How to Apply for Portuguese Citizenship
It has become much easier to get the desired result with various options. To determine the best way, it is worth comparing popular options of naturalization.
Today, investors enjoy particularly favorable conditions, as a special program has been created for them. However, the choice is not limited to investments in the economy, and you can obtain government permission by:
- conclusion of marriage;
- residence for 5 years;
- adoption;
- proof of origin.
The proposed options should be considered, taking into account your wishes. Preparation will help you become a Portuguese resident and learn more about the primary conditions for investors and entrepreneurs.
Citizenship by Investment
Governments have created an additional option for wealthy investors. This way, they can improve their standard of living and earn additional income. Favorable features distinguish offers that are in demand among foreigners. Reduced minimum residency requirements and no language requirements are among them.
Created programs allow investors to determine the most profitable direction of the economy. You can invest in real estate, a company, or bonds. Entrepreneurs also fulfill the following requirements:
- invest in the economy, real estate, or government bonds;
- stay in the territory for 7 days a year;
- speak the language at an elementary level (A2).
The investment threshold is from 280 thousand euros. The return on investment does not exceed several years, so the offer is in demand. Other advantages include fast application processing. Investors can obtain citizenship within 6 months after completing the documents on their own or with the help of accredited agents.
Foreigners who fulfill the government’s requirements will receive official citizenship status. After the application is registered and approved, it is possible to inherit citizenship from your descendants. In addition, the principal applicant has the right to add other persons to the list of applicants for a second passport.
Citizenship by Marriage
A spouse can apply for citizenship and enjoy the privileges of the local population. Under the terms of the law, you can apply for a second passport after 3 years of marriage. In addition, a foreigner must:
- provide proof of connection with Portugal (bank account statement, utility bills, etc.);
- prove that the relationship lasts more than 3 years before the official marriage;
- send a request for citizenship (the application fee is 250 euros).
Foreigners who choose this naturalization method should be prepared for a lengthy procedure. The decision on granting citizenship will be made no earlier than 1–2 years.
Citizenship by Naturalization
This method can be used if it is possible to prove your connection to the country. For this, a foreigner must confirm his permanent residence in the last few years. It is also necessary to provide information about the permission to stay in Portugal for a certain period.
Participants of the Gold Visa program can obtain a residence permit. The conditions require a contribution to the economy or real estate. The residence permit is issued for a specific time, after which you can apply for Portugal citizenship.
Citizenship by Adoption
Only minors can obtain citizenship in this way. To do this, parents must legally reside in the country and have the appropriate citizenship. You can apply for and obtain citizenship if you meet the legal requirements for the legality of the adoption procedure.
Citizenship by Descent
This method is the easiest. Under the terms of the law, any foreigner whose parents or grandparents also held a Portuguese passport is eligible for citizenship. Additionally, the applicant must confirm the information provided in one specified way.
The package of additional documents includes a certificate of Portuguese language proficiency and the absence of criminal proceedings after reaching the age of 16. The provided evidence must be certified and translated into the state language.
Conclusion
The list of ways to obtain citizenship can be divided into two categories. The first is the possibility of applying for citizenship after reaching the age of majority. The second category includes options available upon presenting relevant evidence (birth certificate, adoption, etc.).
Foreigners who want to get Portuguese nationality quickly can do so. The government’s program for attracting foreign capital is available if the minimum requirements are met. For naturalization through this route, you must invest capital in the chosen field and complete the documents within 3–6 months.
