Sephardic Jews

Those who can provide sufficient proof of ancestry showing descent from Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Portugal in the 15th and 16th centuries can apply for citizenship of Portugal under a law passed in 2013.

There is no language or residency requirement, and successful applicants are granted a full Portuguese (EU) passport. As such the recipient becomes a citizen of the European Union and is entitled to all the rights such as freedom of movement that go with this.

Portugal allows dual nationality, so this passport can be held in addition to other passports (if those other countries permit dual/multiple nationality).

Applicants must be over 18 years of age (the citizenship is not automatically passed to children as with naturalization).

Typically you would need to obtain suitable documentary proof from approved Jewish authorities in your home country, but there is also a requirement to visit Portugal for the final stage. This will generally only take a day or two, and I can accompany you to the required appointments. You will arrive in Portugal as a foreigner, but leave a few days later as a Portuguese citizen with your own EU passport.

In March 2022, the rules were amended stipulating that the applicant must have an objective link to Portugal. This could take several forms, from investment, ownership of property, direct family connections, language ability or some other factors in addition to the required heredity.