The strength of the Portuguese and Portuguese passport
Portugal is perhaps best known to the rest of the world as the home of one of the most famous people on this planet—superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. For those less interested in sports, they surely know it for its energetic cities, sun-soaked beaches, and compelling history. Those are some interesting facts, but since you are here, you probably already know that there’s so much more to Portugal than just celebrities and stunning beaches.
Did you know that the world’s most trustworthy surveys always highlight Portugal as one of the ideal places to settle down? In fact, Portugal has been listed as one of the best countries to live in Europe, not to mention it has the best overall life quality.
The best part is, you don’t even need to have a Portuguese passport to enjoy all the benefits and perks that come with living in this beautiful country. Yet, you need to trust us when we say you are better off with one rather than without one, and soon you’ll find out exactly why.
What Can You Do With a Portuguese Passport?
The number of foreign nationals residing in Portugal grows by the year, and more than thousands of them apply for Portuguese citizenship and passport, including non-EU citizens and residents from developed countries just looking for a place to settle down.
Another thing that makes the Portuguese passport so appealing is that you don’t have to lose your citizenship when applying for one, making it the perfect choice for ex-pat families.
But the real question is, is the Portuguese passport powerful enough to convince you to apply for citizenship?
Well, here’s what you have to look forward to once you obtain it:
- Travel between all 27 countries that are currently members of the EU and other countries in the Schengen Area. Come and go freely at your leisure at any time.
- Study, work, live, or retire in any EU country other than Portugal.
- Make your voice heard by voting in both national and European referendums and elections.
- The total number of visa-free countries for the Portugal passport as of 2020 is 185; let that sink in.
- Enjoy all the benefits that come with Portugal’s quality healthcare system.
How to Acquire Portuguese Citizenship and Passport
To be considered eligible to apply for a Portuguese passport or citizenship, you need to meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Married to a Portuguese citizen for over three years;
- Over 18 years of age, while having resided legally in Portugal for at least six years along with excellent Portuguese language proficiency;
- Born abroad as the offspring of a Portuguese citizen;
- Born in Portugal in the year 1981 or later, while parents are foreigners who have been legal residents of Portugal for at least five years after your birth.
You can also go another route and obtain the passport by going through an investment scheme. This scheme is also known as the Portugal Golden Visa. It provides you with multiple investment routes, like buying properties in Portugal, investing in venture capital funds, or investing in rehabilitation projects.
Additional requirements for obtaining Portuguese Citizenship
Apart from the aforementioned crucial requirements, there are several other things you need to have in order:
- Clean criminal record certified by SEF, which serves as proof of your legal residence of 6 years in Portugal.
- Portuguese language fluency.
- Clean health record.
- Proof of current residency.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Portuguese Passport
If you decide to apply, there’s some vital information you need to know beforehand. That’s why we prepared a short FAQ to clear a few things up and put your mind at ease.
How much does the Portuguese passport cost?
If you are applying for a passport while in Portugal, it will cost you only €65. If you’re not in the country, then the Portuguese passport cost is increased to €100.
Keep in mind; these costs are only for applying via the standard requirements.
If you went the Golden Visa route, the price for the programs is relatively affordable. These are the best options and their costs:
- Real estate investments of €500,000.
- Real estate investments of €350,000 for properties requiring renovation.
These prices are subject to change. For more information about the Portugal Golden Visa Cost, click here.
How do I renew my Portugal passport?
You can apply for a replacement if your passport is due to expire in the next six months. Keep in mind, once your passport has expired, you won’t be able to renew it. In such an event, you will have to go through the process of obtaining one all over again.
How much does the Portuguese passport renewal cost?
The Portuguese passport renewal cost is €100. Be aware; if you’re applying for an early renewal due to a stolen or lost passport, you will be subject to additional fees.
How long does the Portuguese passport validation last?
The Portuguese passport validation has a five-year lifespan. When expiration is due in six months, apply for a renewal.
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