You can now make your application for Portugal citizenship request entirely online, according to an announcement by the Portuguese Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN). That’s partly thanks to a new application system launched by the IRN due to a massive backlog of citizenship requests. It will rely on AI, automation, and new functionalities to streamline the citizenship application process.
This comes as great news for investors eyeing Portuguese citizenship through the Golden Visa programme.
New platform to slash citizenship application process by over 50%
The new system allows applicants, including Golden Visa holders who have met the five-year residency requirement, to submit their citizenship requests online. Key features of the platform include:
Automated document digitisation when an application is submitted
AI-powered data extraction
Automatic file classification
These new functionalities are expected to cut the processing time by more than half. More importantly, it’ll reduce the bureaucratic burden on both applicants and officials.
Record-breaking Portugal citizenship applications received by the IRN
The IRN received nearly 200,000 citizenship applications in 2023. However, the first quarter of 2024 alone saw over 63,000 citizenship requests, with similar or higher numbers expected for subsequent quarters.
Portugal's appeal for those looking for a second passport is no coincidence. The country ranks fourth in the EU and is among the top 10 globally for ease of obtaining citizenship or nationality.
Obtaining Portuguese citizenship through investment
In 2023, more than 3,000 residency permits were granted through the Golden Visa programme. Portugal offers one of the fastest routes to EU citizenship after 5-6 years of residency through various investor visa programmes:
Golden Visa (for investors and high-net-worth individuals)
D2 Visa (for entrepreneurs)
Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers)
D7 Visa (for retirees and passive income earners)
The Golden Visa programme: A fast track to Portugal citizenship
The Golden Visa programme remains a popular choice for investors after Portuguese citizenship. Here's what you need to know:
Requirements: You must make a qualifying investment and maintain it for at least five years. Despite the removal of real estate purchase and capital transfer, the following investment options are still available
1) Purchase of investment fund units worth €500k or more
2) Business investments (over €500k) with creation of 5+ full-time jobs
3) Starting a company that creates a minimum 10 jobs
4) Investment in scientific research activities (minimum €500k)
5) Investment in artistic production or national heritage (minimum €250k)
Citizenship application: After five years of residency, Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship if they meet additional requirements, including basic Portuguese language proficiency and a clean criminal record.
How we can help
Our team of specialists at International WealthVentures can help you navigate the Golden Visa programme, select the most suitable investment option, and prepare your citizenship application when the time comes. Contact us today to see how we can assist you in securing your future in Portugal.