Portuguese nationality law developed as a response to specific historical contexts, particularly influenced by the country’s colonial past. Due to changing patterns of migration, and increasing inward migration by a more diverse group of migrants, it was seen as necessary to overhaul the existing system for the acquisition, attribution, loss and re-acquisition of Portuguese nationality. The new law, passed at the end of 2006, reflects many of the recommendations made by policy experts in relation to nationality (Bauböck et al, 2006a: 32-4), including simplification and transparency of procedures, improved access for second and third generation migrants, the removal of differential access for migrants according to country of origin, and the organisation of a public campaign to promote naturalisation. The acquisition of nationality by migrants and their children is therefore seen as a fundamental aspect of immigrant integration policy in Portugal.