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 already been deemed unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court. It will now be vetoed by the President of Portugal and sent back to Parliament for adjustments. Until official approval, it is still possible to submit applications under the current rules, but this is a moment that requires swift action to avoid new requirements. 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 nationality is an important milestone — and now, more than ever, it can be a valuable gift for those closest to you. With the Constitutional Court’s decision rejecting this amendment, and after Martins Castro sent a letter to the President warning of unconstitutionality and discrimination against the Luso-descendant community, it is essential to protect your family’s rights while the current rules remain in force.
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 nationality as a descendant of Sephardic Jews, you can pass it on only to children under 18 and to spouses who have been married for more than 3 years.
Yes. It is possible to start the applications at the same time — yours and those of your minor children — with the appropriate legal guidance.
For spouses, however, the Portuguese nationality process must already be completed.
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.
The text approved in May 2026 provides for a 90-day period to update the regulations.
This update will determine how the new requirements added to the Law will be implemented, including:
Article 6(1)
c) Demonstrating, through a test or certificate, sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language and culture, history, and national symbols;
d) Demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the fundamental rights and duties associated with Portuguese nationality and the political organization of the Portuguese State.
If you already have Portuguese nationality through this route and have minor children or a spouse, you should start the nationality transmission process as soon as possible.
Once the new regulations take effect, this process will be subject to additional requirements.
No. The entire process can be completed while living abroad.
Is your question not answered? Contact our team of experts.
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3 Aluf Kalman Magen - 6107075
