Nationality for children (jus soli)

Portugal applies a system of conditional jus soli: birth on Portuguese territory does not automatically grant nationality, but it may do so if certain requirements are met. Under Organic Law 1/2026, the legal residence requirement for a parent has increased: at least one parent must have been legally resident in Portugal for 5 years at the time of the child's birth.

An equally important alternative route exists: children born in Portugal who have attended the Portuguese education system for at least 1 year (including pre-school) may access naturalisation regardless of the parents' residence period — provided they have no convictions carrying sentences of 3 or more years. This route is especially relevant for children who grew up in Portugal but whose parents have not yet reached the 5-year mark.

The process is not automatic: a formal declaration must be made at the Civil Registry (Conservatória do Registo Civil) or IRN, with documents proving the parent's legal residence, the child's birth in Portugal and, where applicable, attendance in the education system. Families should also check whether Portuguese nationality is compatible with the parents' country of origin nationality rules.

The timelines changed in 2026. Always check current requirements before acting.