Those who are contemplating taking on Portuguese citizenship often wish to retain their nationality of origin. The good news is that Portugal recognizes and permits dual citizenship.
What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship, also popularly referred to as dual nationality or second citizenship is an individual’s citizenship status, in which the person is simultaneously seen as a citizen of more than one country under the laws of both respective countries.
There can be a variety of reasons for taking on Portuguese citizenship:
Lifelong access to state healthcare
For British citizens, the certainty of their status in the EU after “Brexit”
Freedom of movement around Europe and enjoying the benefits of being an EU citizen
Being able to vote in national elections.
You don’t have to give up your current passport, although it depends on the rules in your home country. Portugal falls into the former category. So, if you become a Portuguese citizen, the Portuguese government won’t make you renounce your citizenship.
You can hold a Portuguese passport and another passport at the same time, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
How can I apply for Portugal dual citizenship?
If you want to get Portuguese citizenship, there are many ways to apply:
By descent or birth
By Marriage
By being a Sephardic Jew
By adoption
Citizenship by naturalization
Citizenship by investment scheme, also known as the Golden Visa program
Each route to Portuguese citizenship has different eligibility requirements.
At Golden Port Visa, we specialize in assistance with residency and property investments in Portugal. We’ve helped clients worldwide find the ideal property providing local insights and finding the best investment opportunities in real estate.
Portugal allows non-EU citizens to make a significant investment in Portugal in return for a residency visa. You don’t have to live in the country permanently if you don’t want to.
In contrast with the other routes, you can stay as little as 7 days per year in the country and 14 days in the following years.
After five years, you and your family will be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
This is the best way to obtain Portuguese citizenship for those who don’t have any connection to Portugal, whether through birth, descent, marriage, or otherwise.
It’s one of the most popular and flexible citizenship-by-investment schemes in Europe.
FAQ - Portugal Dual Citizenship
Can I have dual citizenship in the US and Portugal?
Yes, the US allows dual citizenship, meaning you can hold onto your American passport and pursue second citizenship in Portugal. Having said that, though, it’s important to recognize that the USA follows a “master nationality” rule – what it means is that it recognizes only the US nationality of an individual, regardless of whether that individual holds any other citizenship.
Do I have to pay taxes in both countries if I get dual citizenship?
The answer to this question all depends on how much time you’ll spend in Portugal every year and the rules in your current country of citizenship.
If you spend less than 183 days in Portugal each year and don’t consider Portugal your country of residence, then you’re considered a non-tax resident.
You won’t pay tax in Portugal on your worldwide income, but you’ll pay tax on any Portuguese-sourced income (if any).
Portugal has signed double tax treaties with various countries – this means if Portugal has a tax treaty with your home country, then your income won’t be taxed twice.
If you have any questions about the Portugal Golden Visa program, contact us to schedule a free call or send us an email to know more about the program.