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In Portugal, one of the key steps toward acquiring Portuguese nationality based on residence is proving that you have legally resided in the country for at least five years. This is a requirement under the Nationality Law (Law No. 37/81). Importantly, this period of residence does not have to be continuous; as long as all periods of legal residence add up to five years within a 15-year interval, you can qualify for citizenship.
The time counted must be of legal residence, meaning your status in Portugal must be regularized with the authorities, whether through visas, residence authorizations, or other legal mechanisms.
To assist with this process, individuals can request a Time Counting Certificate from the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). This certificate is crucial as it provides an official confirmation of your legal residence periods, which are needed to determine your eligibility for citizenship.
Steps to Apply for a Time Counting Certificate in Portugal
Ensure Your Legal Residence Status is Documented: The certificate only considers legal residence in Portugal, so make sure that your stay in the country has been properly registered with SEF. This includes holding valid visas or residence permits during your time in Portugal.
Request the Time Counting Certificate from SEF: To obtain the certificate, you will need to make an official request to SEF. This can be done either online through their website or by visiting one of their local offices. The certificate will provide a detailed account of the time SEF considers as legal residence.
Prepare Necessary Documentation: You may be asked to provide documents to support your request, including:
- Copies of your visas, residence permits, or other legal documents showing your status in Portugal.
- A valid ID or passport.
Submit Your Request: After gathering the necessary documents, submit your application either online through SEF’s platform or in person at a SEF office.
Review the Certificate: Once issued, the certificate will show the periods that SEF has counted as legal residence. This will help you understand whether you meet the 5-year residence requirement for nationality purposes.
Use the Certificate for Citizenship Application: After confirming that you have the required five years of legal residence, you can proceed with your application for Portuguese citizenship. Include the
Time Counting Certificate as part of the documentation needed for your nationality application.
Why the Time Counting Certificate is Important
This certificate is vital because it clarifies the exact periods of your legal residence in Portugal. It ensures that you have accumulated the necessary time to apply for citizenship and helps avoid any discrepancies during the nationality application process. For those who have spent time in Portugal intermittently or under different legal statuses, this certificate provides clarity on how SEF views your residence periods.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, requesting this certificate early in the process can prevent delays in your citizenship application.
For more information, visit SEF’s official website or consult the Portuguese Nationality Law (Law No. 37/81) for detailed guidelines on residency and nationality requirements.
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