Nationality Law: Portuguese Parliament resumes discussion of crucial changes in April.

The Portuguese Parliament will resume, on April 1st, the discussion of the Government's bill that amends the Nationality Law. The session marks an essential bureaucratic step to formalize the debate after the veto by former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who I had sent the text to the Constitutional Court for review..

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It is crucial to clarify that the proposed amendments to the Nationality Law, which will return to the Portuguese Parliament on April 1st, do not affect the attribution processes by bloodline (the right of bloodThe rights of children and grandchildren of native-born Portuguese citizens remain protected by the current rules of descent.

Changes already approved and deadlines for Brazilians

Among the measures already decided and expected to come into effect, the increase in the required residency period for citizens of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries stands out. (CPLP), like Brazilians. The deadline to apply for citizenship. It will increase from 5 to 7 years.For other nationalities, the required residency period will increase to 10 years.

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Another relevant change affects children of foreigners born on Portuguese soil. Babies will no longer be automatically entitled to nationality at birth; instead, 5 years of residency by the parents will be required for citizenship to be granted.

Points of contention and unconstitutionalities

The Constitutional Court has already deemed some proposed norms unconstitutional. Among the sensitive issues still pending parliamentary discussion is the question of criminalization. The debate involves the possibility of revoking nationality in cases of crimes punishable by more than two years in prison or in situations where fraud is detected during the naturalization process.

The new President of the Republic, António José Seguro, has already stated that several rules need revision to avoid double penalization of citizens. The balance of votes in ParliamentThe influence of parties like the PSD and Chega, especially, will be crucial in shaping the final text.

Next Steps

Following the discussion on April 1st, the Government may present the revised text for a final vote by the deputies. If approved, the bill will go to President António José Seguro for consideration before becoming law.