Not everyone who dreams of living in Europe has European lineage — but that doesn’t mean it’s an impossible dream. Portugal offers several opportunities for immigrants to become legal residents.

Check out this practical guide:

1. Marriage to a Portuguese citizen

How it works:
If you are married to a Portuguese citizen, you can apply for citizenship after 3 years of marriage if the couple has Portuguese children in common (that is, if the marriage has already created a direct link with Portugal), or after 6 years of marriage if you don’t have children.

What is required:

• Prove that the marriage is genuine;

• Demonstrate ties to the Portuguese community (for example, visits to the country, social integration, or participation in community events).

This is the fastest path for those in a stable relationship, but it’s essential to have all documentation organized to avoid delays.

2. Naturalization through residence

How it works:
If you don’t have Portuguese ancestry, legally living in Portugal is one of the most common ways to obtain citizenship. The law requires 5 years of legal and continuous residence.

What is required:

• Proof of legal residence in Portugal;

• Basic knowledge of Portuguese;

• Demonstrated integration into Portuguese society (work, studies, or social participation).

3. Investment in Portugal (Golden Visa)

How it works:
The Golden Visa program allows you to reside legally in Portugal through real estate, business, or financial investment. After the required period (usually 5 years), you may apply for citizenship.

What is required:

• Financial capacity to invest according to the program’s criteria;

• Proof of residence and connection to Portugal during the visa validity period.

Requirements:

• Minimum legal residence of 5 years (or 3 to 6 years for marriage);

• Basic knowledge of the Portuguese language;

• Proof of integration into Portuguese society;

• Personal documents in order: certificates, criminal records, and proof of residence.

Benefits:

• Free movement and work rights throughout the European Union;

• Access to education and public healthcare in Portugal;

• Right to open businesses or invest anywhere in Europe;

• European passport, which can also be passed on to your children.