For US citizens, especially high-net-worth individuals and expats, obtaining dual citizenship in Portugal can be hugely appealing. It allows them to work, live and study in the EU whilst enjoying Portugal's high quality of life.
In this article, we’ll quickly cover what US citizens need to know about dual citizenship in Portugal, including benefits for Americans, and various ways for obtaining it, including the highly sought-after Golden Visa programme.
Dual Citizenship Between the US and Portugal
Both the United States and Portugal allow their citizens to hold dual nationality. Americans can acquire Portuguese citizenship through various means like descent, marriage or naturalisation after residency. Likewise, Portuguese nationals can obtain US citizenship, typically by first getting a green card then naturalising.
While the US taxes global income, Portugal has a residency-based system. Dual citizens may need to file tax returns in both countries, though a tax treaty prevents double taxation.
Ways US Nationals Can Obtain Dual Citizenship
By Descent - Those with Portuguese parents or grandparents are eligible for citizenship by descent if they can demonstrate ties to Portugal.
By Marriage - After 3 years married to a Portuguese spouse, citizenship can be acquired by providing proof of connection to the country.
Naturalisation - The main route is naturalising after 5 years legal residency in Portugal, such as through the Golden Visa investment programme, employment, study or entrepreneurship.
By Exceptional Circumstances - In rare cases, citizenship may be granted for exceptional services or contributions to Portuguese culture, science or economy.
How to Obtain Portuguese Dual Citizenship After Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa programme grants residency to non-EU citizens (including US citizens) investing from €250,000 into property, funds, businesses or cultural assets.
Key requirements include being over 18, having a clean record, legal income source and securing qualifying investment and health insurance.
Golden Visa holders can include family members like spouses, dependent children and parents. The big benefit is needing just 7 nights per year in Portugal.
After 5 years of maintaining investment and residency, they can naturalise as Portuguese citizens. This unlocks the right to live, work and study across the EU.
Benefits of Portuguese Dual Citizenship for Americans
Visa-free access to the EU's 27 member states and wider Schengen zone
Right to live, work and study anywhere across the European Union
Access to Portugal's high quality of life, safety and affordable living costs
Free or low-cost healthcare and social services through Portugal's public system
Free university education in Portugal and potential tuition savings across the EU
Ability to invest, start businesses and take advantage of economic incentives in Portugal.
Stability and security with Portugal ranking 7th on the 2023 Global Peace Index
Potential tax benefits like the Non-Habitual Resident regime in Portuguese islands
An ideal option for retiring with a lower cost of living and excellent healthcare
With pathways like descent, marriage and the Golden Visa, US nationals have several avenues for acquiring the substantial benefits of dual Portuguese citizenship.