Do you want to live in Europe? Find out how to become a Portuguese citizen

Published

3 years ago

August 1, 2022

Herb Adkins

Vicente Nunez – Correspondent

published on 07/31/2022 07:00 / updated on 07/31/2022 19:19

In order to attract the descendants of the Portuguese who left the country, many of whom escaped poverty, the grandchildren of these citizens were given the opportunity to directly apply for their original citizenship – (photo: Pixabay)

Lisbon – Plastic artist Lenne Russo, 51, is on her way to fulfilling her dream of becoming a Portuguese citizen. More than having a coveted EU passport that allows free travel to more than 120 countries, she wants to regain her original family name, which was lost in the Brazilian civil service bureaucracy at the beginning of the last century. century. Between 1907 and 1908, her grandfather, Eduardo dos Santos Russo, then three years old, landed at the port of Santos with his family, who were looking for better living conditions in Brazilian lands.

Lined up, each of the Portuguese who arrived in promising Brazil was registered under federal control. But the haste and carelessness of the servers at the time led to gross errors in the notes. Surnames were changed without objection from the immigrants, many of whom were illiterate. In the case of Lenne Russo’s grandfather, Russo disappeared from the list. Only Eduardo dos Santos remained. “So much so that my official name is Aedileen Aparecida Mora dos Santos,” she says. He was left to use a Russian surname when he pursued his artistic career.

However, a legislative change introduced by the Portuguese government in 2018 gave Lenne hope. In order to attract the descendants of Portuguese exiles, many of whom were fleeing poverty, the grandchildren of these citizens were given the opportunity to directly apply for their original citizenship. Prior to this, the grandchildren of Portuguese born abroad could only apply for derivative citizenship. That is, they received the right from their parents, but could not transfer the benefit further. With the change in the law, Portuguese citizenship has become a right of inheritance, and they will be able to pass it on to future generations.

But let’s be clear, warns lawyer Renato Martins, CEO of Lisbon-based firm Martins Castro: “If the grandchildren of Portuguese people don’t apply for citizenship, their descendants won’t be able to apply for it. the rope broke.” Therefore, it is important to apply for citizenship while those who qualify are still alive. This is Lenny’s case. “I have no children, but my sister Elaine Aparecida has three. Therefore, she and I are applying for Portuguese citizenship so that my nephews and their children can benefit,” he notes. “Better: in all documents issued by the Portuguese government, our surname will be Rousseau,” he celebrates.

Artificial intelligence

There are no contemporary estimates of how many Portuguese-born descendants born in Brazil are eligible for the citizenship of a European country. Data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGS) for the mid-2000s showed that 21 million Brazilians were of Portuguese descent. Most of these citizens are scattered throughout Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Rio Grande do Sul, Para and Goiás. However, not everyone is able to prove a connection with their ancestors, even out of ignorance. “Therefore, serious professional oversight is necessary,” recommends lawyer Joana Nunez from the office of Garcia, Silva, Nunes e Associados.

The biggest challenge, adds Renato Martins, is to collect all the documentation required by the Portuguese government. He recalls that until 1911 there was no registration of acts of civil status in the country. Births were cataloged in churches. And much was lost along the way. Thus, a thorough search is required. “There are people who have been doing this for more than 10 years without success,” he says, who, along with partners Martins Castro, created an artificial intelligence program that can identify information in a shorter time.

“Today we have over 1 million metadata in the genealogy bank that can be read and searched,” explains the lawyer. This process includes searching for information in churches and greenhouses (notary offices) in Portugal, as well as in ports and municipalities, since many Portuguese have gone to work in agriculture and even in hostels in Brazil. With this information, we collate the data and we can come up with what we are looking for,” emphasizes Martins. He emphasizes that not everything is digitized, but digitization alone is no guarantee of success in the efforts of those who claim to have Portuguese citizenship.

According to the lawyer, it is necessary to convert every piece of information – name, gender, parents’ names, location and date of birth – into searchable data. “We call it metadata. From there, the AI does its part of the job as it can read the documents,” he clarifies. He adds that the time it takes to complete the entire citizenship process depends on the quality of the information. When they are more available, the necessary documents can be found within five working days. However, the whole process can take about two and a half years. An important detail: no candidate for Portuguese citizenship can be sentenced to three or more years in prison.

Sephardic Jews

Foreign trade analyst Maria Ligia de Melo, 35, is looking for records of her Portuguese ancestors from 2019. However, her case is more complicated. She claims to have connections with Sephardic Jews expelled from Portugal by the Inquisition in the 15th century. A large number of these Jews moved to Recife, where their names were changed so that they could live in peace. The citizenship advantage of Sephardic origin was created in 2015, but this year the Portuguese Citizenship Law was amended to make it more difficult for those who intend to acquire citizenship in this way.

In addition to the documents of origin, it will be necessary to demonstrate a real and lasting connection with Portugal through regular travel within the country, or to have a document of ownership of real property rights, in case of inheritance. Maria Ligia has been in Portugal for three years now, where she works and studies. Despite the difficulties, she does not give up. “My family is from the hinterland of Pernambuco, who have very bad papers. That’s why I haven’t been able to find the data I need yet. But, God willing, I will get Portuguese citizenship because I am Sephardic. origin,” he says.

Lenne Russo even considered giving up her Portuguese citizenship when her parents died in 2014. However, last year a friend convinced her to renew her dream of applying for citizenship, restoring her last name and living in Europe. And he went to fight. After a long search, he found in the National Archives records of the arrival of his great-grandfather Augusto Cesar Russo with his grandfather. “Everything was there, his full name and the name of his wife,” he says. “Once my citizenship is revealed, I want to visit my family’s hometown, in Tras os Montes,” she emphasizes, who will pay 11,200 reais for the process of nationalizing her and her sister.

marriage and children

Lawyer Joana Nunez says that Brazilians who are married or in a stable union with the Portuguese can also apply for citizenship in Portugal. The relationship, however, cannot be less than three years. All documents must be certified and apostilled in The Hague, which guarantees international recognition. Children of foreigners born in Portugal are among those who can transfer citizenship in this case to their parents if they have been living on Portuguese lands for more than five years.

“Portuguese citizenship has many advantages,” says the lawyer. “Portuguese identity card (citizen card) entitles you to free movement and residence in all countries of the European Union. It also makes it easier to access a bank loan (including for buying a home),” he adds. However, she emphasizes that the naturalization process is not easy, mainly due to bureaucracy and lack of staff in government agencies such as the Foreigners and Border Guards Service (SEF). “Demand for citizenship is growing, but government infrastructure is not keeping up with this movement.”

Joana gives another warning: “Before you apply for citizenship, you need to seek the help of serious professionals registered with the Portuguese Bar Association.” The warning makes sense. The Portuguese government is investigating at least 22 Brazilian digital influencers who were selling citizenship properties but were actually scamming the unsuspecting. “Professionals registered to provide this type of service can be sued if they harm someone and are liable for it. In the case of false consultants, the punishment is more severe, and losses are inevitable,” he says.

It is estimated that at least 1 million Brazilians live in Portugal, including those with dual citizenship. There are almost 300,000 legal foreigners, of whom 47,000 received permission to develop the country in the first half of this year. In addition to these groups of Portuguese and Brazilian descendants who have received residence permits, the Portuguese government wants to attract labor to the country and stimulate the economy. For this, a temporary 180-day visa was created so that those who wish could look for work in local companies. The new law should come into force by the end of August.

Economy and xenophobia

The funds created to attract the descendants of Portuguese and foreigners are not limited to Portugal, says lawyer Renato Martins, CEO of Martins Castro. He notes that Spain, Germany, France and Luxembourg, which recently naturalized 15,000 Brazilians, are following the same path. And this is the result of what the authorities call a “demographic winter,” when the elderly become the majority of the population, and there are no longer enough young people in the labor market to guarantee the support of social security systems. “I, like scientists from the European Union and the United Nations (UN), prefer to call this reality demographic suicide,” he says.

In his opinion, countries that relax immigration rules are very specific about the problems that arise in connection with the aging of the population, and pursue policies aimed at repopulating them. “No nation can support itself when its economically active population is shrinking,” he says. In Portugal, even with the arrival of foreigners, the number of inhabitants is falling every year. There are just over 10 million of them.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

8 months ago

October 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.

Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

9 months ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

9 months ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.