A2 Portuguese Language Requirement for Portuguese Citizenship

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Understanding the A2 Requirement

To obtain Portuguese citizenship, Golden Visa applicants must demonstrate basic language proficiency by meeting the A2-level requirement. A2 is an entry-level, practical competency that enables you to:

• Order meals in restaurants

• Handle simple conversations about everyday topics

• Write basic emails and messages

• Understand slow, clearly spoken Portuguese

You’re not expected to write essays or discuss politics. As Francisco Lourenço, program director at SIPL Master, explains, “A2 is a starting point. We don’t expect you to talk about politics—but you’ll be able to book a hotel, write an email, or navigate a pharmacy.”

Two Ways to Meet the Requirement

Since 2023, Golden Visa applicants have two legal options to fulfill the A2 requirement:

1. Take an A2 Exam at a certified language center (CAPLE, IEFP, or Camões Institute).

   • Tests reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

   • Requires preparation and in-person attendance.

2. Complete a 150-hour certified language course at an accredited school.

   • No final exam required.

   • Course completion automatically qualifies you for the A2 certificate.

Important: Not all language courses are valid for citizenship. To qualify, a course must be labeled PLA—Portuguese as a Host Language. Other formats like PLE or informal tutoring won’t be accepted by SEF or citizenship offices.

Flexibility for Investors

Language providers, like SIPL Master, have tailored their course formats for busy professionals:

✔ Standard Track (9 months):

• 2 sessions per week, 2 hours each

• €4,940

• Ideal for clients planning early

✔ Fast-Track (3.5 months):

• 5 sessions per week

• €5,700

• Suited for clients closer to their 5-year milestone

✔ Private Course:

• Fully customizable (1-on-1, couples, or family)

• From €12,900

• Ideal for clients needing flexible timing or privacy

All classes are capped at 8 students to ensure engagement. Classes are live and interactive, with an emphasis on practical conversation over grammar-heavy instruction. As Francisco notes, “We guarantee the certificate to all who complete the hours, with a 100% success rate.”

Family Requirements Vary by Age

Language rules vary depending on each family member’s age at the time of applying for citizenship:

• Under 11: No language requirement

• 11–15: Must show “some ability” in Portuguese (e.g., an A1 or junior A2 certificate)

• 16+: Full A2 certificate required

SIPL also offers a two-year junior course tailored for ages 11–15, with certificates issued after each year (A1, then A2).

🔎 Tip: A 13-year-old today may need a full A2 certificate by the time they apply. Plan ahead based on the child’s age at the 5-year mark.

Course Costs and Considerations

Most accredited A2 programs range from €2,000 to €10,000, depending on:

• Group vs. private instruction

• Course intensity (fast-track vs. standard)

• Language support (e.g., English, Mandarin, Russian, Turkish)

• Provider reputation and certification authority

Certificates from approved institutions—such as those partnered with Cristóvão Colombo Professional School—are accepted by Portuguese immigration and citizenship authorities.

Tips for Busy Applicants

Golden Visa clients have completed their language requirement without interrupting their lives or careers:

• Start early (ideally in Year 1–3 of the visa period)

• Use apps like Duolingo to build basic vocabulary

• Join online group or private courses with flexible schedules

• Consider fast-track formats if nearing the 5-year mark

• Store your A2 certificate—it never expires

Final Thoughts

With a flexible and supportive approach from accredited providers, the A2 Portuguese requirement is no longer a major hurdle for Golden Visa investors. As one language provider put it: “Time is money for our clients. We make sure every hour counts—and they often end up enjoying the course far more than they expected.”