I was fined for overstaying in Portugal. Does this affect my chances to obtain citizenship?

During a past visit to Portugal, I overstayed my tourist visa by about a month and paid the penalty at the airport when leaving. Does this incident remain on my record? Could it affect my future citizenship application negatively?

Answers

On March 01, 2024 Diogo Capela answered:

An overstay penalty during a past visit doesn't negatively impact citizenship applications. Only more severe criminal offenses with sentences over 3 years (according to Portuguese law) could affect it.

On March 01, 2024 Tiago Gali Macedo answered:

Overstayers may face difficulties if they attempt to return to the EU in the future. Visa applications could be denied, or an entry ban will need to expire before they are eligible again. In most of the cases people get an entry ban and fine. But, of course, every case must be evaluated with the conditions that it has. In some cases, providing paperwork or having a valid reason for overstaying might help with reinstating travel privileges.

On March 01, 2024 Sara Sousa Rebolo answered:

In principle, a fine for overstay under a tourist visa shall not affect a citizenship application. Nevertheless, it is always recommendable to ask the entities in charge for the borders control, if your date is listed there.

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