The alterations that expand access to native Portuguese nationality and naturalisation to people born in Portugal were approved in parliament on 20 April and come into force tomorrow.

These alterations mean the children of foreigners who have lived here for two years will be considered native Portuguese unless they declare they do not want Portuguese nationality.

The law also says that foreigners who have lived in Portugal for five years can also get Portuguese nationality.

It adds, however, that Portuguese nationality is not allowed for anyone who has been sentenced to more than three years in prison.

Citizens from Portuguese-speaking countries do not now need to take a language test.