Portuguese Language Requirements for Citizenship: What You Need to Know
For those seeking Portuguese citizenship, language proficiency is a key requirement. The minimum required level is A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale, which corresponds to the upper level of a basic user.
Portuguese is widely spoken across several countries. Therefore, applicants for Portuguese citizenship from Portuguese-speaking nations are exempt from this language requirement, as they already possess the necessary proficiency.
How can I obtain a certificate for A2 level Portuguese?
In order to fulfil the A2 proficiency requirement, candidates have the option to select from a variety of approaches.
For example, if you have studied Portuguese, whether as a subject or a curricular unit, either as a native or non-native speaker, for a minimum of two years in a recognised
educational institution, you can present your qualification certificate to demonstrate your language proficiency. This route is ideal for those aiming to achieve a higher level of Portuguese proficiency, often chosen by international students planning to
study in Portugal and seeking to deepen their understanding of the language.
The CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) exam is designed to assess A2 level proficiency. Administered by CAPLE (Centro de Avaliação e Certificação de Português Língua Estrangeira), the exam is available globally at various CAPLE-certified centres.
The CIPLE exam is open to anyone over 16 and lasts for two hours, divided into three parts:
- Reading comprehension and writing (1 hour 15 minutes, 45% of the total grade)
- Listening comprehension (30 minutes, 30% of the total grade)
- Oral production (15 minutes, 25% of the total grade)
The grading scale is as follows:
- Failed (0-54%)
- Sufficient (55-69%)
- Good (70-84%)
- Very Good (85-100%)
A score of 55% or higher is required to pass.
What alternatives do I have for the CIPLE exam?
For those who prefer not to take the CIPLE exam, there are alternative routes to demonstrate A2 proficiency, as outlined in decree-law Nº 237-A from 14 December 2006 article 25 number 2 subparagraph e, stayed the following:
- Certificate of the Portuguese Host Language (PLA) course attesting to the completion of level A2 or higher of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, issued by educational establishments of the public network, by establishments that are part of the network of centres of direct and participatory management of the IEFP, I.P., and by the Qualifica Centres, under Ordinance no. 183/2020, of August 5.
The PLA course provides individuals with the chance to acquire Portuguese citizenship without the requirement of passing the CIPLE exam. It is an ideal choice for those who are not familiar with the Portuguese language. The PLA courses last a total of 150 hours and upon completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion.
At Belion Partners, we specialise in assisting clients with all aspects of obtaining Portuguese citizenship. Whether you need help with language courses or navigating the citizenship process, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
