Portuguese Nationality for Sephardic Jews

Portuguese citizenship for descendants of Sephardic Jews was introduced in 2015 as historical reparation for the expulsion during the Inquisition. However, significant changes took effect in 2024, with stricter requirements. Key changes include:

1. Proof of Sephardic Descent

The applicant must present a genealogical study demonstrating a direct or collateral connection to Portuguese Sephardic Jews.

2. Certification by a Jewish Community

The applicant must obtain certification from a recognized Jewish community in Portugal, such as the Israelite Community of Lisbon or Porto. This certification proves both the Sephardic origin and cultural ties to Portugal.

3. Minimum Residency Requirement of Three Years

A crucial update from the Organic Law No. 1/2024, enacted in March, requires applicants to legally reside in Portugal for at least three years (continuous or intermittent) before initiating the citizenship process. This mandatory residency seeks to ensure a stronger connection to the country.

Organic Law No. 1/2024 of March 5, which is the tenth amendment to Law No. 37/81, governs nationality requirements and outlines the conditions for granting nationality by naturalization to Sephardi descendants:

"The Government may grant nationality by naturalization to descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews who cumulatively meet the following requirements:a) Demonstrate tradition of belonging to a Portuguese Sephardic community through objective evidence of connection to Portugal, such as surnames, family language, or direct or collateral descent;b) Have legally resided in Portuguese territory for at least three years, either continuous or intermittent."

Required Documents for Citizenship

To ensure the success of your application, you must present the following:

Birth certificates;
A valid passport;
Criminal background checks;
Proof of residence in Portugal or links to the country (visits, properties, businesses).

Impact of the Changes

These updates reflect a more rigorous process, particularly with the introduction of the residency requirement. This change responds to the large influx of citizenship applications in recent years and aims to ensure that recipients maintain genuine connections to Portugal.

Benefits of Portuguese Citizenship for Sephardic Jews

Obtaining Portuguese citizenship offers numerous personal and professional benefits:

Free Movement in the European Union: Portuguese citizens can live, work, study in any EU country, and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Access to Social and Healthcare Benefits: Portuguese citizens benefit from public healthcare services and social benefits, including retirement and unemployment benefits.
Travel Freedom: The Portuguese passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
Political Rights: Portuguese citizens can vote and run for office in Portugal and European Parliament elections.
Reconnect with Historical Roots: For many Sephardic Jews, obtaining Portuguese citizenship is a way to reconnect with their cultural and historical heritage, restoring ties lost over centuries.

The Importance of Hiring a Specialized Lawyer

Due to the complex legal requirements, hiring an experienced lawyer can prevent mistakes and expedite the process. A specialized lawyer can assist with document collection, verifying your connection to Portugal, and navigating the legal process with authorities.

Achieve Success in Your Portuguese Citizenship Application

If you are looking to reconnect with your roots and obtain European citizenship, having qualified legal support is essential. The journey toward Portuguese citizenship with confidence and security.

The information provided is of a general nature and is not a substitute for consulting a lawyer. Consult a lawyer and adopt a preventive approach to legal practice.

Are you a descendant of Portuguese Sephardic Jews?