Portugal: Temporary border control in place May 10-14

Event

The Portuguese authorities have announced that border controls would be put in place on a temporary basis from 23:59 (local time) on Wednesday, May 10, until 23:59 on Sunday, May 14. The measure is part of increased security being implemented across the country ahead of the scheduled visit by Pope Francis on May 12-13. As such, identity checks are to be anticipated at airports, land border crossings, and ferry terminals.

Context

Pope Francis will visit the sanctuary of Fatima. More than 500,000 pilgrims are expected. Similar temporary border controls were implemented for the 2004 the World Cup and the 2010 NATO summit.

Advice

Travelers are advised to carry the proper identification papers with them (e.g. passport or ID issued by an EU member state), to anticipate longer wait times at border crossings, and to contact the nearest Portuguese consulate for further details.