17 Oct Portugal Approves New Foreigners’ Law

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has officially promulgated the new Foreigners’ Law (Law No. 9/2025) (Lei dos Estrangeiros), introducing notable reforms to Portugal’s immigration framework. The government’s objective is to modernize procedures, clarify rights for foreign nationals, and reinforce legal mechanisms related to entry, stay, and removal. Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most stable and reliable investment residency programs.

Key Changes Introduced

• Entry-Exit System (SES): biometric data will now be collected for all third-country nationals, including those previously exempt.
• Stricter rules on refusal and removal: deadlines for voluntary or forced departure in irregular cases will be shortened.
• Family reunification adjustments: the general requirement of two years of residence remains, although future exceptions may apply.
• Restrictions on in-country applications: individuals entering under visa waiver programs may no longer apply for residence from within Portugal.
• End of preferential residence terms for CPLP nationals in some cases: residence permit durations will now be harmonised with those of other nationalities.

Impact on the Golden Visa

Despite the scope of the reform, no immediate changes are expected for the Golden Visa program. Most measures will still require further regulation before entering into effect, meaning current and prospective investors can proceed with confidence.

Nationality Law Reform Still Under Discussion

In parallel, proposed amendments to Portugal’s Nationality Law (Proposal No. 1/XVII/1.ª) were scheduled for debate this week but were postponed at the request of the Socialist Party. The discussion is now expected to resume on October 22. Until then, the current nationality framework remains fully in force.

What Could Change

• Residency requirement for naturalisation could increase from 5 to 10 years (or 7 years for CPLP nationals).
• New cultural and civic assessment, including language, knowledge of rights and duties, and understanding of Portuguese institutions.
• Stricter evaluation of integration and personal ties to Portugal.
• Potential revocation of citizenship in cases of serious criminal convictions.

A Strategic Window of Opportunity

If you already meet the current eligibility criteria for Portuguese nationality, now is the optimal moment to apply. Acting before the new rules are approved could secure your status under a more favourable regime.