Last updated: 28 September 2026 · By Haider Shah, accounting technician in Portugal
For Portuguese nationality and permanent residence you must prove basic Portuguese, level A2 of the European framework. It is a basic level: simple conversations, short texts, everyday situations.
Ways to prove A2
1. CIPLE exam
The CIPLE is the official A2 exam of the University of Lisbon’s CAPLE centre, held at exam centres in Portugal and abroad several times a year. It has three parts:
| Part | Duration |
|---|---|
| Reading and writing | 1h15 |
| Listening | 30 min |
| Speaking (oral interaction) | about 15 min |
Register through CAPLE or an authorised exam centre well in advance, because places fill up quickly. Check the current fee and exam calendar on the CAPLE website.
2. Português Língua de Acolhimento (PLA)
Free Portuguese courses for immigrants, run by IEFP and public schools. Completing the A2 level with the required attendance and assessment gives a certificate accepted for nationality purposes. Ask at your local IEFP centre or school cluster.
New in 2026: more than language
The 2026 Nationality Law also requires knowledge of Portuguese culture, history, symbols and the rights and duties of citizens. How this will be assessed depends on regulations. Check the IRN before you apply.
Tips to pass
- Do the free model exams on the CAPLE website
- Practise speaking about yourself, your work, your family and your city
- Watch Portuguese (not Brazilian) TV news with subtitles
- Learn forms, dates, numbers and prices, which are common in the reading part
Need help with this?
Preparing your citizenship or permanent residence file? I can help with the tax and Social Security documents you’ll need.
Contact meOfficial sources
This guide is general information, checked against official sources on 28 September 2026. Rules and portals in Portugal change often, so confirm the current rules with the official source before you act. It is not legal advice.
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