Portuguese Citizenship Application: Language Test Not Required

When applying for citizenship in a foreign country, expats usually have to submit an extensive list of documents. Among them is a certificate of language fluency. The same holds for Portugal, as the country expects its citizens to have a basic grasp of Portuguese. That also applies to those seeking the passport via the Residency by Investment route, like the Portugal D2 Visa or the Golden Visa programmes. But here’s the good news: you don’t necessarily have to take a test.

This guide explains everything you need to know about Portuguese language requirements for citizenship, including the CIPLE exam, alternative course-based options, and how Portugal Homes can support you at every step.. 

The legally required level is A2 Portuguese, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

At A2 level, applicants are expected to:
• Understand simple spoken and written Portuguese
• Use common expressions related to daily life
• Write short, basic texts
• Communicate using simple sentence structures

While English, the de facto language of the world, is spoken widely in Portugal, learning Portuguese will allow you to deeply integrate yourself into the local culture, better understand cultural contexts, and communicate more easily with others. Plus, any attempt to establish a connection to Portugal always improves your case on a Citizenship Application.

The CIPLE exam is the official Portuguese language proficiency test traditionally required for citizenship.

Key facts:

The CIPLE exam applies to applicants seeking Portuguese nationality through:

The minimum age to take the exam is 16 years old.

Golden Visa holders should note that the CIPLE exam is not required for residency, but is mandatory when applying for Portuguese citizenship.

As of January 2024, Portugal introduced a major update to its citizenship language policy.

Applicants are no longer required to take the official exam if they can prove A2-level proficiency through approved Portuguese language courses.

This change has made the citizenship process significantly more flexible and accessible.

The official government website, explains that during the citizenship process, it’s sufficient to submit a document that proves A2-level language proficiency, putting the requirement as follows: 

“A document that proves that you have sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language. This document can be:  

By enrolling in specific Portuguese language courses offered by public, private, or cooperative institutions, attending classes, and completing the course, you can obtain a Portuguese fluency certificate without needing to pass the official exam.

This approach simplifies the language learning process, letting you study at your own pace and reducing the stress associated with taking the test. Just enrol, participate in the available online classes, and receive your Portuguese A2 fluency certificate.

Completing an approved A2 Portuguese language course is now one of the most popular options for citizenship applicants.

Key advantages:
• Approximately 150 hours to complete
• Generally affordable
• Widely available online
• Flexible pace
• No exam pressure

This option is particularly attractive for investors, professionals, and families who prefer gradual learning over a formal test environment.

With the ease of obtaining the A2 level fluency certificate combined with Portugal Homes’ dedicated and exclusive investment options, the path to Portuguese Residency and future EU Citizenship has never been such a smooth process. We offer comprehensive, 360º solutions, from some of the most affordable and complete Portuguese Visa packages to finding you a great property and even helping you out with everything you need after the process is concluded. Simply choose from our extensive menu of services the ones that best suit your needs and enjoy a stress-free journey toward your Portuguese dream.  

Do I need to speak fluent Portuguese to obtain citizenship?
No. Portugal only requires A2-level Portuguese, which is a basic level focused on everyday communication rather than fluency.

Is the CIPLE exam mandatory for all citizenship applicants?
No. Since January 2024, applicants can meet the language requirement either by passing the CIPLE exam or by completing an approved A2 Portuguese language course and obtaining a recognised certificate.

Do Golden Visa holders need to pass a language test?
Golden Visa holders do not need to prove Portuguese language skills to maintain residency. However, they must meet the A2 language requirement when applying for Portuguese citizenship.

Can I complete the language requirement online?
Yes. Many approved A2 Portuguese courses are offered online, making it possible to meet the requirement remotely and at a flexible pace.

How long does it take to obtain the language certificate?
Most A2 language courses require around 150 hours to complete. Exam results for the CIPLE test are usually available within two weeks.

Contact us today to inquire about the matter and find out how we can help you with our tailored visa and real estate solutions.