Portugal: Authorities extend state of emergency through Dec. 23 amid ongoing COVID-19 activity /update 22

Event

Authorities in Portugal have extended the current state of emergency through at least Dec. 23 due to ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity; however, officials have stated it will almost certainly be extended further, through Jan. 7, 2021. Authorities previously renewed a nationwide state of emergency effective 0001 Nov. 24-2359 Dec. 8.

Authorities are prohibiting travel between municipalities over a long weekend in an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19; the domestic travel ban is in effect 2300 Dec. 4-0500 Dec. 9. Additionally, all schools will close Dec. 7; authorities recommend employers allow staff to work from home on these dates. Finally, effective Nov. 24, facemasks are mandatory in the workplace.

The country is divided into four different zones depending on the epidemiological risk in each municipality, namely extremely high, very high, high, and moderate.

Over 100 municipalities, largely located in the north of the country, are listed in the extremely high and very high risk zones, including Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Setubal. In addition to the nationwide measures in effect, these municipalities will also be subject to a 2300-0500 curfew on weekdays and a 1300-0500 curfew on weekends and public holidays; residents are advised to only leave their homes for work, school, and essential shopping. All nonessential businesses must close; pharmacies, healthcare facilities, grocery stores with floor space under 200 square meters, and petrol stations may remain open. Working from home is mandatory whenever possible.

Other restrictions remain in place nationwide, including a five-person limit on public gatherings, except for family events, such as weddings, which are limited to 50 attendees unless otherwise indicated. The sale of alcohol in restaurants and bars remains banned after 2000; there is also a ban on consuming alcohol in public areas. Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public areas and are strongly encouraged in outdoor public areas. Many businesses and services outside high risk zones have resumed operation provided they implement strict hygiene and social distancing requirements.

Authorities in Portugal permit entry for travelers from the EU and Schengen Area countries, the UK, Australia, Canada, China, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, and Uruguay; these arrivals do not require a COVID-19 test unless their final destination is the Azores or Madeira. Travel from other countries remains prohibited, except for limited essential reasons, including EU citizens and residents returning home, reuniting with family, and commuting to essential work or study. All such arrivals are required to submit a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding; however, Portuguese nationals and residents may arrange to take the test on arrival at their own expense.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e. covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.