Eligibility Criteria for Goans Applying for Portuguese Citizenship

1. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR GOANS APPLYING FOR PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP • pnfg.co.uk

2. Introduction Portuguese citizenship eligibility criteria are an important subject for Goans in the UK who wish to reconnect with their heritage while unlocking the benefits of EU citizenship. For those with Goan roots, especially linked to the pre-1961 Portuguese era, the path can be clear but requires accuracy and preparation. This presentation outlines the main criteria for Goans in the UK considering Portuguese citizenship. Keep reading to know more!

3. Understanding Portuguese Citizenship Eligibility Criteria for Goans Who is Eligible For Portuguese Citizenship for Goans If you are of Goan origin (in India before 1962, when Goa was part of Portuguese India, or descended from such people), you might qualify under one or more of these conditions:

4. Born in Goa before 18 December 1961 • This is the point when the Portuguese rule in Goa, India, had just ended. If you were born in Goa before that date, you fall under the colonial period. • This is valid, even as an Indian citizen, you have moved away to another place (like the UK). The key condition here is to prove your identity and civil records. You must document, like: • Original birth certificate (showing birth in Goa during Portuguese rule) • Marriage certificates or other civil registry documents (to prove family ties if relevant) • Valid current ID (passport, Aadhaar, UK residence proof, etc.) • The right to apply is not lost just because they moved abroad or hold Indian nationality. As long as you can prove the historical connection and comply with Portuguese requirements, you can reclaim your Portuguese heritage.

5. 2. Children or grandchildren of those born in pre-1961 Goa • This means that if you are applying for Portuguese citizenship for Goans through your parent or grandparent who was born in Goa before 1961, you need to prove the family connection step by step using official civil documents. • Documents to give: • Birth certificates to show that your parent or grandparent was born in Goa during Portuguese rule. • Marriage certificates to connect generations (for example, proving that your grandparent is indeed the parent of your father or mother, and then linking you to them). • Other official records that confirm the ancestor’s Portuguese nationality, or that they kept it after Goa became part of India.

6. What The Law Needs To claim Portuguese citizenship (or regain/retain it) as a Goan, typically, you need to satisfy several legal and evidential requirements: • Birth / Ancestral Link You need to show that you or your ancestor was born in Goa while it was part of Portuguese India. If born after that date, prove that you are eligible for it through lineage (your parents or grandparents were born in the colonial land of Goa. 2. Registration / Transcription of Birth / Civil Records The birth certificate must usually be “transcribed” or “integrated” into the Portuguese civil register. This means registering your birth or that of your ancestor with Portuguese authorities or consulates.

7. 3. Proof of Identity & Legal Documents Obtain a valid form of identification (such as a passport or identity card). For ancestor documents, provide birth, marriage, or any Portuguese registration records, along with a passport if available. 4. No Disqualifying Legal Issues Applicants should not have criminal convictions that, under Portuguese law, carry potential sentences for serious crimes (varies, but some exclusions exist).

8. Introduction Conclusion • You are likely eligible for Portuguese citizenship for Goans (and thus a Portuguese passport) if: • You or your parent or grandparent was born in Goa before 18 December 1961, and • That person had Portuguese nationality or met the law’s requirements to retain it, and • You can provide the required civil registrations (birth, marriage, etc.), and • You satisfy any required “connection” to Portugal and follow the process of registering/transcribing with Portuguese authorities. • Please get in touch with PNFG CONSULTANCY to better navigate the process. • Check your eligibility for Portuguese citizenship and secure a European future for yourself and your family. PNFG CONSULTANCY in the UK is here to simplify the process and help you secure your EU rights.

9. Contact Us +351920219177 pnfg.co.uk connect@pnfg.in