bernardo

Ever since 2020 [1] changing your name and sex in the civil registry became free. This means that anyone of legal age (or above 16 with approval from parents) can change their legal name and sex without having to pay any fees.

However, you are required to get new documents reflecting these changes. Within 30 days you’re required to get a new Citizen Card, as well as updating any documents you have like your Passport, Driver’s License, etc… [2]

Unlike the name change, these changes are not free. This means that realistically, changing your sex is still not free, given that you, have to pay for your Citizen's Card and any other documents you might need. Which leads to the question: why was this not approved?

Let’s take a look at who voted and for what. This proposal was presented by the “LIVRE” green party [3] and got favorable votes from the left. [4] The Socialist Party voted against it along with the far-right Chega.

This showcases the chokehold the Socialist party have on legislation. While in previous governments they had to negotiate with the Communist Party and the Left Bloc, now they're free from them, and only they decide on what does and doesn't pass.

Sources

[1] - Orçamento de Estado 2020 - Artigo 400.º

[2] - Mudança de sexo e de nome próprio - Justiça.gov

[3] - LIVRE (Political Party)