Since Spain and Portugal have recognized the possibility of obtaining their nationalities from the descendants of Sephardic Jews, through the Law 12/2015 and the Decree-Law A/2015, many people have been able to take advantage of the opportunity to obtain a European nationality through this procedure.
The application for Portuguese nationality by Sephardic origin is attractive not only because it was simplified, but also because it has few requirements.
In theory, any person will have the possibility to accede to the nationality, provided that he can prove his Sephardic origin. The only thing required by the law is to prove a descendent Sephardic Jew expelled from Sepharad.
Unlike traditional processes for obtaining European nationality, the present:
Does not require residence in Portugal;
There is no need to prove Portuguese language proficiency;
There is no need for socio-cultural knowledge of the country;
It does not require the resignation of other nationalities;
It does not carry tax obligations.
The willingness to provide Portuguese nationality to those of Sephardic origin is the result of migratory policies that seek to repair what Sephardic Jews have suffered throughout the 15th and 16th centuries in the Iberian Peninsula and the Kingdom of Portugal (Law of Historical Reparation).
On the other hand, it is no longer possible to initiate applications for the Spanish nationality, due to the fact that the deadline for this processing expired in 2019. However, the possibility of applying for the nationality remains open for applying for the Portuguese nationality through this way.
What benefits can those who apply for Portuguese nationality by Sephardic origin?
The Portuguese passport is the fifth most valuable passport in the world, providing access to over 180 countries without the need for visas;
Free movement in the 26 Schengen countries;
Reside, study, or work in any country belonging to the European Union;
Undertake or invest in the European Union;
Family members have the same rights as the applicant for the nationality;
Access to Portuguese pensions and social security.
Portugal presents a great opportunity for all those interested in obtaining a European passport, offering a simpler process, governed by the legal guarantees provided by the European Community.
If you are interested in opting for the Portuguese Nationality by Sephardic Origin, do not hesitate to contact us at asesores@troislaw.com
Valentina Sierraalta