A 366% Surge in 6 Years! Unveiling the Reasons Behind the Explosion in Portuguese Citizenship Applications

Latest data on Portuguese citizenship applications has been released, showing that applications for Portuguese citizenship have surged by 366% over the past six years—nearly a fourfold increase, totaling over 1.4 million applications during this period. In 2022 alone, 300,000 applications were received, compared to fewer than 100,000 in 2013. The high level of interest in Portuguese immigration is evident.

Behind the massive volume of applications lies a persistent backlog. On February 10, Schengen News reported that the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) in Portugal is working to significantly accelerate the processing of Golden Visa applications and has previously launched a comprehensive digital transformation of its paper-based application system.

How valuable is a Portuguese passport?

As a member state of the European Union, the Schengen Area, and NATO, holding a Portuguese residence permit allows for travel across the 29 Schengen countries. The value of its passport goes without saying.

1. Access to an EU Passport

Naturalization in Portugal grants you a Portuguese passport, which is equivalent to holding a passport from any of the 27 EU member states, a stepping stone for the U.S. E-2 visa, and access to the four EFTA countries (Switzerland, Iceland, etc.).

2. A Portuguese passport offers holders more work and educational opportunities

Those holding a Portuguese EU passport have more employment options in Europe. Furthermore, their children can attend school in any EU country and enjoy the same enrollment conditions as local citizens. In addition, as EU citizens, Portuguese passport holders can access equal healthcare benefits in any member state.

3. Visa-free access to 188 countries/regions

Henley & Partners released the 2025 Global Passport Power Ranking, placing Portugal 4th globally with visa-free access to 188 countries/regions.

4. Simple naturalization process

Portugal is the country where it is easiest to obtain an EU passport. You only need to reside there for 5 years and have A2-level Portuguese language proficiency to apply for citizenship. For applicants who cannot stay abroad for long periods or find learning a new language challenging, Portugal's low residency and language requirements are tailor-made!

Whether it is the high-value Portuguese passport, the beautiful natural environment, or the high-quality educational and medical resources in Portugal, all make it an excellent choice for investors planning for overseas status. Amid the current backdrop of tightening immigration policies in Europe, Worldway Group would like to remind all investors to take action early, seize the initiative, leverage policy dividends, and realize your European dream sooner!

The Portuguese Fund Investment Immigration Program is a simple, fast, and secure path to immigration. The application conditions are straightforward, with no requirements for language, education, or business background, and the investment can be completed without needing to be in the country. One application covers three generations of the family, and the approval process is fast. Currently, it is a great time to immigrate to Portugal; investors interested in immigrating to Portugal are advised to seize the opportunity!

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