Portugal Citizenship Delays & Germany's Strict 2026 Visa Rules

Portugal Citizenship Delays: 5 vs. 10 Years

Despite the legal requirement of five years to obtain Portuguese citizenship, actual timelines are stretching up to 10 years. This significant delay is primarily driven by extensive processing queues at the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA).

• Investors in Portugal should plan for a 7 to 10-year timeline for holding assets to account for these bureaucratic delays.

Germany Eliminates Visa Remonstration Process

Germany has officially canceled the visa remonstration process. Previously, applicants could appeal a visa refusal directly with the consulate. Now, any visa denial must be challenged through formal court proceedings, making the process longer and more expensive.

• Applicants facing a D visa refusal must now navigate the court system as their only path forward.

Higher Salary Thresholds for German Blue Cards

Effective January 1, 2026, Germany is raising the minimum salary thresholds required to qualify for an EU Blue Card. This change impacts both new applicants and companies looking to hire foreign talent.

• Professionals and employers must recalculate their relocation plans and secure contracts under the new limits.

Berlin Passport Issuance and Schengen Border Checks

In positive news for German residents, Berlin successfully doubled its passport issuance in 2025 thanks to a new centralized processing system, increasing the chances for faster passport processing in the capital.

However, travel within the region remains under scrutiny as Germany has extended its random Schengen border checks until March 15, 2026.

• Expats are advised to carry their residence permits at all times when traveling across borders.

"EinfachMachen" Portal Launched for Expats

Germany has introduced a new portal called "EinfachMachen" aimed at helping expats navigate local bureaucracy. The platform encourages foreigners to independently find solutions to administrative hurdles.