How long does the citizenship process take?

The realistic timeline is 18-24 months from document preparation to final citizenship registration. This includes document collection (1-3 months), submission, IRN analysis (12-20 months), and final registration (1-2 months).

Portuguese Citizenship by Descent for Americans & Canadians

Why DefesaLegal.PT is the Right Choice for Your Citizenship Journey

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Total Independence

We work exclusively for you. Our analysis is 100% focused on securing your right to nationality, with no intermediaries.

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Absolute Cost Transparency

A clear breakdown of all fees and government charges from day one. No surprises.

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Honest Eligibility Analysis

We assess your case rigorously and free of charge. We only proceed if we have a high degree of confidence in success.

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Realistic Timelines

We provide an honest assessment of current IRN and consulate processing times (typically 18-24 months), not exaggerated promises.

Your Path to the Portuguese Passport: A Realistic Timeline

The Myth of the "Quick Process" vs. The Reality of 18-24 Months

Analysis and Strategy

up to 3 business days

Initial consultation, analysis of existing documents, and definition of the legal pathway.

Document Collection and Preparation

up to 5 business days

Obtaining birth certificates from Portugal, necessary translations, etc.

Process Submission

up to 3 days

Formal submission of the application with the competent Civil Registry Office.

Follow-up and IRN Analysis

12-24 months

Waiting period and proactive monitoring of the process status.

Birth Registration and Citizenship

up to one month

Issuance of your Portuguese birth certificate and subsequent application for Citizen Card and Passport.

💡 Important: Unlike some competitors who promise "6-month citizenship," we provide honest timelines based on actual IRN processing times. This transparency helps you plan properly and avoid disappointment.

Your Trusted Partner in Portugal

Jorge Ferraz

Managing Partner – Nationality Law Practice

🏛️ Licensed Attorney - Portuguese Bar Association

Member since October 2002 (22+ years)
Professional License: #9398-P
Certificate of Good Standing: Current & Valid

✓ 22+ years of legal practice in Portuguese and international law
✓ Successfully represented clients in over 3,500 legal cases
✓ Proven background in nationality and immigration lawmily law
✓ Helped hundreds of American and Canadian families successfully obtain Portuguese citizenship

"Our commitment goes beyond legal representation. We become your trusted partners in rediscovering your heritage, ensuring every step of your family's citizenship journey is handled with the utmost care and expertise."

Licensed Member since 2002
Portuguese Bar Association

International Associates
American Immigration Lawyers Association

International Associates
American Bar Association

Members
Association of European Attorneys

Frequently Asked Questions for Americans & Canadians

Do I need to speak Portuguese to obtain citizenship? +

Generally, no. For direct descent through parents, Portuguese language proficiency is not required. For grandparents, demonstrating some connection to Portuguese culture (which may include language) can strengthen your application, but it is not always mandatory.

Can I maintain my American or Canadian citizenship? +

Yes. Portugal allows dual nationality. You can hold both Portuguese and American or Canadian citizenship simultaneously without having to renounce either.

What if my parent or grandparent has already passed away? +

This is not an impediment. The essential requirement is proving the line of descent through official documents such as birth certificates and civil registry records.

How much does the process cost in total? +

The total cost varies depending on your specific case (if marriage transcription is needed), but typically includes:

Legal Fees	€1.000 - €2.500
Government Registry Fees	€175 - €370
Estimated Total	€1.175 - €2.370

We provide a detailed, personalized quote after your initial consultation.

Will my children also have the right to citizenship? +

Yes. Once you become a Portuguese citizen, your minor children can obtain Portuguese nationality through a simplified process. This is one of the major benefits of securing your citizenship.

Do I need to live in Portugal to apply? +

No. Citizenship by descent does not require you to live in Portugal. You can complete the entire process from the United States or Canada, with our team handling all interactions with Portuguese authorities on your behalf.

What documents will I need? +

Typically, you will need:

Your birth certificate (with apostille)
Your parent's or grandparent's Portuguese birth certificate - we can get these in Portugal
Marriage certificates (if applicable)
In some cases, proof of connection to Portuguese community

However, we will provide you with a complete, personalized checklist, after we review your case and documentation.

What are the benefits of Portuguese citizenship? +

Portuguese citizenship opens doors to countless opportunities:

EU Citizenship & Freedom of Movement: Live, work, and study in any of the 27 EU member states without visa restrictions
World's Top 10 Passport: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188+ countries, offering more travel freedom than most passports
Access to European Healthcare: Quality public healthcare in Portugal and other EU nations at a fraction of US costs
EU University Education: Affordable or free university education for you and your children in EU countries
Pass Citizenship to Your Children: Once you obtain Portuguese citizenship, your children automatically qualify for Portuguese nationality
Business & Tax Opportunities: Access the EU market, NHR tax regime benefits, and business opportunities across Europe

Why Choose DefesaLegal.PT for Your Portuguese Citizenship?

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Expert Team with Proven Track Record

Our lawyers have successfully handled over 1500 Portuguese citizenship cases, with a deep understanding of both Portuguese nationality law and international requirements.

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Complete Transparency on Costs & Timelines

We provide detailed, personalized quotes upfront and realistic timelines based on current IRN processing times, not exaggerated promises.

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Personalized Guidance Every Step of the Way

From document collection to final registration, we guide you through every phase of the citizenship process with clear communication and expert advice.

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Honest Eligibility Assessment

We assess your case rigorously and free of charge. We only proceed if we have a high degree of confidence in your eligibility for Portuguese citizenship.

Portuguese Citizenship by Descent