Portuguese citizenship can be transmitted by those who are already Portuguese citizens to their children and spouse (or partner in a recognized civil union). However, it is important to consider how you acquired your citizenship. If it was through descent or through the Sephardic route, the rules differ.

Secure Your Family’s Legacy:
The Power of Portuguese Nationality
Unlock Unrestricted Access to Europe for Generations to Come
Thousands of families have already strengthened their ties with Portugal — and yours could be next. The proposal to amend the law has been submitted to the Constitutional Court and may change the current rules as soon as there is a presidential decision and official publication. Until then, it is still possible to submit applications under the current regulations, but this moment requires swift action. Contact us to secure the rights of your children and spouse before any changes take place.
A Right to Be Experienced as a Family
Obtaining Portuguese citizenship is an important milestone — and now, more than ever, it can become a valuable gift for those at your side. With the law currently under review by the Constitutional Court, and after Martins Castro sent a letter to the President alerting to constitutional issues and discrimination against the Portuguese-descendant community, it is essential to secure your family’s rights while the current rules remain valid.
If you have Portuguese ancestry, your minor children and your spouse may also be eligible, opening doors to new opportunities and strengthening your connection with Portugal.
The citizenship transmission process is not automatic, but it is your family’s right — and it remains available until the law is officially changed.
With proper guidance, the process can be simple and secure. Our team is ready to support you every step of the way, especially at this decisive moment.
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The Top Professionals in Portuguese Nationality are at Martins Castro
At Martins Castro, you have the support of a highly experienced legal and genealogical team specializing in nationality studies and research on the Sephardic diaspora. We offer a reliable approach to ensure the success of your process — especially now, when every detail and every deadline matters.
Clients Who Have Already Moved Their World
Martins Castro has helped more than 9,000 families obtain their Portuguese passports safely — and is now actively working to protect the rights of the Portuguese-descendant community, including sending a letter to the President challenging critical points of the proposed amendment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If your citizenship comes from direct descent, you can pass it on to all your children, even if they are adults.
If you have Portuguese citizenship as a descendant of Sephardic Jews, you can only transmit it to children under 18 and to your spouse.
Adult children must start their own process — and this regime is coming to an end, so it is important to act quickly.
Yes. You can initiate your own application and your minor children’s applications simultaneously, with proper legal guidance.
No. Even when the right exists, a formal request must be submitted to the Conservatória. The transmission is not automatic.
Yes. A spouse or partner in a legally recognized civil union of at least 3 years can request Portuguese citizenship.
However, approval always depends on recognition by Portuguese authorities.
In 2025, the Portuguese Parliament approved significant amendments that are still awaiting publication. These include:
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The end of the Sephardic citizenship route for new applications;
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New requirements for demonstrating effective ties to Portugal in future transmissions;
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Stricter criteria for citizenship applications through marriage or civil union.
If you already hold Portuguese citizenship through the Sephardic route and have minor children, you should begin the transmission process as soon as possible.
Once the new rules come into effect, this option will no longer be available.
No. The entire process can be completed while living abroad.
Is your question not answered? Contact our team of experts.
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Lisbon
Avenida da República 18

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Avenida Constitución 2050

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Carrera 42#5 Sur 145 - Piso 11

Tel Aviv
3 Aluf Kalman Magen - 6107075
