CIPLE for Candidates Over 60:
The Oral-Only Option (PIO)
If you are 60 or older and cannot read or write, Portuguese law allows you to take only the speaking part of the CIPLE exam โ and still qualify for citizenship.
The oral-only option is defined in Decree-Law 26/2022, Article 25, paragraph 6. It is not a workaround โ it is a formal accommodation built into Portuguese citizenship law.
Who qualifies for the PIO option?
You must meet both of the following conditions:
- โ You are 60 years of age or older at the time of the exam
- โ You are illiterate โ meaning you cannot read or write, even in your native language
Note: if you can read and write but simply struggle with the exam format, this exemption does not apply. You would need to take the standard CIPLE.
- Candidates who are literate but elderly (60+ but can read/write)
- Candidates under 60, regardless of literacy level
- Candidates with other disabilities โ these have a separate accommodation process
What is the PIO component?
PIO = Produรงรฃo e Interaรงรฃo Oral
PIO is the speaking section of the CIPLE A2 exam. In the standard exam it accounts for 30% of the total score. For eligible candidates over 60, it becomes the only section โ and passing it is sufficient for citizenship purposes.
| Standard CIPLE | PIO-only (60+) |
|---|---|
| Reading + Writing (70 min) | Not required |
| Listening (30 min) | Not required |
| Speaking / PIO (15 min) | โ Only this part |
| Pass: 55% overall + all sections | Pass: oral section only |
What happens in the PIO exam?
The speaking section is a short, structured conversation with an examiner. It lasts approximately 10โ15 minutes and covers everyday topics:
- ๐ฌIntroducing yourself: name, age, where you live, family
- ๐ฌDaily life: what you do, your routine, where you shop or go
- ๐ฌSimple descriptions: your home, neighbourhood, work
- ๐ฌBasic interaction: asking and answering simple questions
The examiner speaks slowly and clearly. You do not need to write anything or use a computer.
How to register for the PIO option
Do not register through the standard online form first. Call or email your nearest CAPLE-certified centre and explain that you are applying for the PIO-only option under Decree-Law 26/2022.
You will need: a valid ID document (passport, residence permit) and documentation confirming your illiteracy โ this can be a declaration or certificate from a social services body, school, or local authority.
The exam centre will confirm whether you qualify and inform you of the specific conditions. This step is required โ you cannot self-declare eligibility.
Bring your ID. The oral part is typically held in the afternoon. Results take 4โ6 weeks.
How Prep2go helps
Speaking Practice โ the only module you need
Prep2go's Speaking module is specifically designed for the CIPLE oral exam. It covers all topic areas tested in PIO: self-introduction, daily routines, family, home, neighbourhood.
You can practise:
- ๐ฃ๏ธConversation scenarios that match the real exam format
- ๐ฃ๏ธAI feedback on pronunciation and vocabulary
- ๐ฃ๏ธShort daily sessions โ no reading or writing required
You can set up the Prep2go account, choose the Speaking module only, and practise together out loud. The platform works well as a conversation guide even without independent use of a device.
Start practising for the oral exam
Get full access for 7 days โ no card required (includes Speaking module).
Get full access for 7 days โRefund available within 30 days โ conditions apply