Portugal Nationality Law Update April 2026

Parliament Reopens Debate After Presidential Veto – No Final Approval Yet

What Happened on 1 April 2026? In yesterday’s parliamentary session, lawmakers carried out the formal procedure known as Reappraisal of the Presidential Veto. This means the previously approved nationality law — which included the proposed increase from 5 to 10 years for citizenship eligibility — has returned to Parliament for further review. 

Outcome:

The debate and legal reconsideration started

No final approval of the law

No new voting result adopted

Why Was the Law Reopened?

The law was sent back to Parliament due to two major legal events:

1.  Constitutional Court Decision

The Court found several provisions unconstitutional, including:

• Retroactive application to pending applications
• Vague legal concepts (e.g., “lack of integration”)
• Disproportionate criminal record restrictions

2.  Presidential Veto

Following the Court’s ruling, the President refused to promulgate the law and returned it to Parliament for correction.

What Did Parliament Do in This Session?

During the 1 April session:

• Deputies reviewed the objections raised by the Court and the President
• Political parties began discussing amendments
• The proposal was effectively sent for further technical and legal revision

This marks the start of the correction phase, not the final decision.

Current Legal Status

Final Parliamentary Approval has not been completed. Presidential Signature not issued. 5-Year Rule Still Valid.

 What Happens Next?

The legislative process will now move forward in the following steps:

1.  Revision Phase

• Parliamentary committees will amend the law
• Unconstitutional provisions will be corrected

2.  Final Vote

• Parliament will vote again on the revised version
• A simple or 2/3 majority may be required

3.  Presidential Review

• The law will be sent again to the President
• The President may:
  • Approve and sign
  • Request another review
  • Refer again to the Constitutional Court

4.  Publication

If approved, the law will be published in the Diário da República and enter into force

Statement

The 1 April 2026 session marks a procedural and legal turning point, not a final decision. The nationality law reform remains under active review, and further developments are expected in the coming weeks.