Think on These Things

I have decided to pursue obtaining citizenship from Portugal, therefore hopefully becoming a dual citizen of the United States and Portugal. I am a bit excited by this, because there are some great benefits.

If I obtain a Portuguese citizenship, I would be able to vote in political elections, run for office (not likely), obtain a Portuguese passport, and wouldn’t get deported (wee!). There are more benefits, thanks to the recent unionization of Europe. By becoming a Portuguese citizen, I will also be able to enjoy the rights provided by the European union, including the ability to live, work, or retaire in any member state of the union, for an unlimited period. Which means if I ever get a bit of money my way, I might be able to have a summer home anywhere in Europe in the future.

Of course there are a few reservations I have. I wonder if obtaining a Portuguese citizenship might mean I have to pay some taxes to Portugal, or participate in mandatory military service. I don’t think it’s likely that either of these things will happen. My father has dual citizenship and does not pay any taxes to the Portuguese government, and I believe Portugal has a voluntary military.