The new Nationality Law has been met with criticism, as it is perceived as an indication that Portugal is reluctant to progress on human rights and the dignity of individuals seeking residence, said Timóteo Macedo, opposing the recently approved bill.
The legislation requires a documented residence period of seven to ten years in Portugal before obtaining nationality, with a stipulation that naturalized citizens could lose their citizenship if they commit crimes punishable by over four years during a ten-year period.
Timóteo Macedo argued, “The Portuguese government favors populism and the most regressive policies in Europe. We have missed a significant opportunity not to regress to the 20th century.”
The law mandates that naturalization candidates prove their means of subsistence, even those claiming nationality due to Portuguese emigrant ancestry without intending to reside in Portugal, a requirement also disputed by Timóteo Macedo.
He stated, “The return to the subsistence proof reminiscent of past practices demands a minimum income, suggesting that ‘Portuguese nationality is also being sold.’ This policy contradicts the humanistic spirit of the Portuguese people and will have economic repercussions.”
Macedo warned that as long as there are thousands of undocumented workers fulfilling necessary jobs, wages will remain stagnant, and those accusing immigrants of job theft will see these roles continue to be filled by the most exploited. He disapproves of the different residency requirements for European or Lusophone nationals (seven years) compared to others (ten years).
He emphasized that people are being treated differently, creating unacceptable discrimination, and hoped the President of the Republic would review the bill, as it potentially breaches Portugal’s constitutional “principle of equality.”
