How does the Golden Visa impact my current citizenship?

Portugal’s Golden Visa program grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, but it does not affect your current citizenship.

When you obtain a Golden Visa, you retain your existing passport and nationality.

The residency permit is simply a legal status that allows you to reside in Portugal, not a change in your citizenship or identity as a national of another country.

Even if you renew your permit or stay long-term, your original citizenship remains intact.

Does Portugal Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Portugal allows dual or even multiple citizenships.

This means that if you eventually apply for Portuguese citizenship after fulfilling the residency requirements, you can usually hold both Portuguese citizenship and your original nationality.

The same is true for U.S. citizens, as the United States also permits dual citizenship.

There’s no requirement from either country to renounce your original citizenship if you become a Portuguese citizen.

What Happens During the Transition to Citizenship?

If you choose to apply for Portuguese citizenship after the required residency period (currently five years, potentially moving to ten based on new legislation), your citizenship journey begins.

However, this is a voluntary process.

Obtaining Portuguese citizenship is not automatic, and until you go through the full process, you remain solely a resident with your original citizenship.

Applying for Portuguese nationality involves proving language skills, clean criminal records, and continuous residency, but it does not strip your existing identity or passport.

Any Risks to Your Home Citizenship?

In most cases, no. Applicants from countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia are free to hold dual or multiple citizenships.

However, it's critical to check the laws of your home country, especially if you're from a nation that restricts dual citizenship, such as China or India.

For most Western nations, Golden Visa residency or even dual citizenship has no negative impact on your original nationality.

Final Word

The Golden Visa does not impact your current citizenship.

It grants residency and provides a legal path to eventual Portuguese citizenship if you choose, all while allowing you to keep your original passport and legal identity.

It's a flexible pathway designed for global investors, without jeopardizing your national ties.