Portuguese citizenship offers significant benefits, including access to the European Union.
If you or your child are eligible for Portuguese citizenship, the Consulate of Portugal in New Bedford, MA, provides services to help with the application process.
Below, you will find a detailed guide covering the necessary steps, required documents, and important considerations.
Portuguese Citizenship for Children of Portuguese Parents
If you are a Portuguese citizen with a child born in the United States, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship for your child. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth process.
Eligibility and Process
- Both parents must visit the consulate.
- The child must be under 18 years of age.
- No fees are charged for this service.
Required Documents
| Child’s Long-Form Birth Certificate | Original or certified copy. |
| Child’s Picture ID or US Passport | Copy of a valid picture ID or US passport (not required for children under 14 years of age). |
| Parents’ Long-Form Birth Certificates | Original or certified copies of both parents’ birth certificates. |
| Proof of Portuguese Citizenship | Portuguese birth certificates or valid Portuguese ID documents for one or both parents. If unavailable, the consulate may locate records using the parent’s full name and date of birth. |
| Marriage Certificate of Parents | Certified copy (if applicable). If the marriage took place in Portugal, the consulate can assist in obtaining the certificate. |
| Proof of Address | Examples include the parents’ driver licenses or another acceptable document. |
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Portuguese Citizenship for Adults with Portuguese Parent(s)
Adults over 18 with a Portuguese parent or parents can apply for Portuguese citizenship. The process is straightforward but requires additional fees.
Eligibility and Process
- Applicants do not need their parents to accompany them.
- Fees apply and must be paid in cash.
Required Documents
| US Long-Form Birth Certificate | Original or certified copy. Must include your parents’ signatures at the time of your birth. |
| Valid Picture ID or US Passport | Copy of a valid picture ID or US passport. |
| Parents’ Birth Certificates | Portuguese parent(s): Provide Portuguese birth certificates or valid Portuguese ID documents. US-born parents: Provide long-form birth certificates. |
| Parents’ Marriage Certificate | Certified copy (if applicable). If married in the US, the marriage must be registered in the Portuguese civil registry. |
| Proof of Address | Examples include a driver license or another acceptable document showing your current residence. |
Important Information to Remember
- Appointments: All services require appointments.
- Incomplete Applications: The consulate does not accept incomplete dossiers. Ensure all documents are ready before your visit.
- Processing Time: Citizenship applications may take several months to process. The consulate will notify you once the application is complete.
- Minor Applications: For children under 18, the child does not need to be present. For children under 14, no ID is required.
- Payment: Payments must be made in cash.
Citizenship Through Marriage to a Portuguese Citizen
If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a Portuguese citizen, you may qualify for Portuguese citizenship. This route allows individuals to gain citizenship by demonstrating a connection to Portugal and providing the required documentation.
Eligibility and Process
- The marriage or civil partnership must have been in place for at least three years.
- The applicant must demonstrate an effective connection to the Portuguese community. This connection can include language proficiency, cultural engagement, or residence in Portugal.
- Citizenship through marriage does not require legal residency in Portugal, making it a viable option for individuals residing abroad.
Required Documents
| Marriage Certificate or Proof of Civil Partnership | Required if applying through marriage or civil partnership. If the marriage took place outside Portugal, it must be registered in the Portuguese civil registry. |
| Proof of Spouse’s Portuguese Citizenship | Provide a valid Portuguese Citizen Card, passport, or birth certificate of the Portuguese spouse. |
| Proof of Effective Connection to Portugal | Evidence of cultural ties, such as participation in Portuguese cultural events or learning the language. Certificates from language courses or formal recognition of Portuguese proficiency are acceptable. |
| Criminal Background Check | A certified document showing the applicant has no criminal record. |
Application Process
- Step 1: Submit all required documents to the Civil Registry Office or the Portuguese Consulate in your area of residence.
- Step 2: Pay the applicable fee, which varies depending on the consulate or registry office.
- Step 3: Wait for the review process, which typically takes 6 to 12 months, although delays are possible.
Important Notes
- Applicants are not required to renounce their current nationality, as Portugal permits dual citizenship.
- Demonstrating ties to Portugal is a critical part of the application. This requirement ensures that citizenship is granted to individuals who genuinely connect with the country and its culture.
FAQs
What are the fees for adults applying for Portuguese citizenship through descent?
Fees vary depending on the consulate or civil registry office, but they typically range from $200 to $250. Applicants must pay these fees in cash when submitting their application. For the most accurate fee information, contact the Consulate of Portugal in New Bedford directly.
Can I apply for Portuguese citizenship if my Portuguese parent is deceased?
Yes, you can still apply for Portuguese citizenship if your Portuguese parent is deceased. You will need to provide their Portuguese birth certificate or valid Portuguese ID and prove your lineage through additional documentation, such as your own long-form birth certificate and their death certificate.
Is it possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship if I was adopted by a Portuguese citizen?
Yes, individuals adopted by a Portuguese citizen may apply for Portuguese citizenship. The adoption must be legally recognized under Portuguese law, and applicants will need to provide the adoption decree and other supporting documentation, including the Portuguese parent’s proof of citizenship.
Can dual citizenship affect my U.S. citizenship?
Portugal allows dual citizenship, and so does the United States. However, holding dual citizenship means you must adhere to the laws of both countries. For example, you may be subject to tax obligations in both nations, so it is important to understand the implications fully.
Are there expedited options for Portuguese citizenship applications?
No, Portuguese citizenship applications follow a standard process and cannot typically be expedited. However, cases with urgent humanitarian or legal needs may be reviewed on a priority basis if properly documented and justified by the relevant authorities.
Final Words
Portuguese citizenship opens doors to countless opportunities, from access to the European Union to enhanced global mobility. Whether you are applying for yourself or your child, understanding the requirements and processes is essential for a smooth experience.
Take the time to gather all necessary documents, book your appointment, and prepare for potential processing times. If you have any doubts, reach out to the Consulate of Portugal in New Bedford for guidance and support.